Emotional tears are a uniquely human behavior. Research suggests they evolved not for eye health but as a powerful social signal that strengthens bonds and elicits care.

Terminator: Why do you cry? John Connor: You mean people? Terminator: Yes. John Connor: I don't know. We just cry. You know. When it hurts. Terminator: Pain causes it? John Connor: Uh-uh, no, it's ...

Crying is one of the most recognizable human emotional signals. Tears appear when people experience grief, relief, joy, or ...

We’re the only species that sheds emotional tears, but much about them remains an enigma. Human infants aren’t able to shed tears for the first few weeks of their lives. Scientists like to show the ...

Issue 42 (January 2026) of CURIOUS is out now, bringing you science highlights for the month plus deep dives into intriguing topics, interviews, exclusives, diary dates, and explanations for some of ...

Tears are usually seen as a sign of sadness or pain, but it’s not uncommon for people to cry during life’s most joyful moments: weddings, births, reunions, sporting triumphs, or even just an ...