Spooky superstitions! Why we think 13 is bad luck
Brains On! Science podcast for kids
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How to Get Over Your Superstitions
For humans, psychologists think we tend to believe in superstitions as a way to feel a sense of control. But if doing those things doesn't actually change the outcome, why do it? Well, our brains aren't always rational. Sometimes they make decisions based on bad logic. One reason we believe that superstitions affect outcomes is because our brains always look simple cause and effect relationships. For example, say you're playing baseball, and most of the time you strike out. But one day, when you're wearing a pink shirt, you hit a home run.
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