Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • Weapons effect

    A state in which the mere presence of weapons increases the likelihood of violent or aggressive behavior.  

  • Water pollution

    Pollution of lakes, oceans, rivers, and streams from open dumps, improperly disposed of industrial wastes, contaminated rain, temperature, sewage disposal plants, and surface water drainage. Contamination of streams, lakes, underground water, bays, and oceans by substances harmful to living things. Water pollution is particularly dangerous for living things, all of which require water to survive,…

  • Water intoxication

    A potentially fatal condition caused by an intake of fluid that exceeds the maximum rate of urinary flow. Excess water intake. Also known as overhydration, an abnormal increase in the volume of water in the body. Infants younger than 1 month are especially susceptible to overhydration. In adults, water intoxication is most common in people…

  • Water cycle

    The constant circulation of water between the atmosphere, the earth’s surface, and the water table.  

  • Water-absorbing power of the cell

    The ability of the cell to absorb water because the diffusion pressure of water within the cell is lower than the diffusion pressure of pure water.  

  • Wassermann test

    A blood test used to determine whether or not a person has syphilis. Blood test to detect syphilis. A sample of blood is tested, using the complement fixation method, for antibodies to the syphilis organism Treponema pallidum; a positive reaction indicates the presence of antibodies and therefore syphilis infection. A false positive reaction also occurs…

  • Warning signs of cancer

    The American Cancer Society for many years has promoted the educational concept that each person should be aware of the early signs of cancers and to take immediate action should one or more appear. These warning signs are as follows: 1. change in bowel or bladder habits; 2. a sore that does not heal; 3.…

  • Warning signal

    An intermittent audible sound of varying tone made by a siren or other device to alert others to the emergency vehicle so that the way may be cleared.  

  • Warning lights

    Flashing lights that serve as a signal of some sort of emergency or hazard.  

  • Warm-glow effect

    The tendency for a person to behave in an altruistic, magnanimous manner immediately after being made to feel good about himself or herself.  

Got any book recommendations?