📖 Overview
Matt Kaplan is a science journalist and author known for exploring the intersection of science, mythology, and human psychology. His work examines how ancient legends and cultural beliefs can be understood through modern scientific analysis.
Through his books including "The Science of Monsters" (2012), "Science of the Magical" (2015), and "A Most Scientific Fairytale" (2019), Kaplan investigates historical myths and supernatural phenomena by applying scientific methodologies and research. His writing regularly appears in publications like The Economist, National Geographic, Nature, and New Scientist.
As a science contributor to The Atlantic and other outlets, Kaplan specializes in making complex scientific concepts accessible while maintaining academic rigor. His research encompasses fields including evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology.
Kaplan holds degrees from Tufts University and Imperial College London, where his studies focused on the biological sciences. He frequently gives talks and lectures exploring how science can illuminate cultural phenomena and folklore from both historical and contemporary perspectives.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate Kaplan's ability to explain scientific concepts behind myths and legends in clear, engaging language. Reviews highlight his skill at connecting ancient stories to modern research without diminishing either perspective.
What readers liked:
- Clear explanations of complex topics
- Balance between academic research and storytelling
- Fresh perspectives on familiar myths
- Well-researched scientific evidence
- Accessible writing style for non-experts
What readers disliked:
- Some sections feel repetitive
- Occasional oversimplification of scientific concepts
- Limited depth on certain topics
- Can be too informal for academic readers
Ratings across platforms:
- Goodreads: "The Science of Monsters" 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings)
- Amazon: "Science of the Magical" 4.3/5 (150+ reviews)
- "A Most Scientific Fairytale" averages 4.0/5 across platforms
One reader noted: "Kaplan bridges the gap between folklore and science without losing the magic of either." Another commented: "Sometimes skims complex topics too quickly, but overall makes science approachable."
📚 Books by Matt Kaplan
The Science of Monsters (2012)
Examines the real-world science and historical origins behind legendary creatures such as dragons, vampires, and zombies.
The Science Behind the Stories We Tell (2015) Analyzes how human psychology and evolutionary history influence the universal themes found in myths, fairy tales, and modern fiction.
Science of the Magical (2015) Investigates the scientific basis behind historical magical practices, religious rituals, and supernatural beliefs.
What Does Greatness Do to Us? (2022) Explores the psychological and biological effects of fame, power, and success on human behavior and decision-making.
Why Humans Love Music (2023) Examines the evolutionary, neurological, and cultural factors that explain humanity's universal connection to music.
The Science Behind the Stories We Tell (2015) Analyzes how human psychology and evolutionary history influence the universal themes found in myths, fairy tales, and modern fiction.
Science of the Magical (2015) Investigates the scientific basis behind historical magical practices, religious rituals, and supernatural beliefs.
What Does Greatness Do to Us? (2022) Explores the psychological and biological effects of fame, power, and success on human behavior and decision-making.
Why Humans Love Music (2023) Examines the evolutionary, neurological, and cultural factors that explain humanity's universal connection to music.
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