Behavioral economist Dan Ariely, the author of Predictably Irrational, uses classic visual illusions and his own counterintuitive (and sometimes shocking) research findings to show how we’re not as rational as we think when we make decisions.

Video here: http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_ariely_asks_are_we_in_control_of_our_own_decisions.html

Take a front row seat at the first class Harvard has ever made available online, and perhaps meet the inspiration for Mr. Burns from the Simpsons.

Justice is one of the most popular courses in Harvard’s history. Now it’s your turn to take the same journey in moral reflection that has captivated more than 14,000 students, as Harvard opens its classroom to the world.

In this twelve part series, Sandel challenges us with difficult moral dilemmas and asks our opinion about the right thing to do. He then asks us to examine our answers in the light of new scenarios. The results are often surprising, revealing that important moral questions are never black and white. This course also addresses the hot topics of our day—affirmative action, same-sex marriage, patriotism and rights—and Sandel shows us that we can revisit familiar controversies with a fresh perspective.

Check out the course here: http://justiceharvard.org/

New York Times article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/26/arts/television/26sandel.html?_r=1&pagewanted=1&em