Mental Floss

BIG QUESTIONS









Not even sorry.

According to experts, this behavior has a few explanations, but being a bully probably isn’t one of them. We also offer a few solutions for how to stop cats from knocking things over.

Rebecca OConnell




Like all great things, this classic snack doesn't last forever.

Discover whether or not popcorn expires, plus how long you can keep that bag you took home from the movie theater before it’s time to toss it out.

Mike Rampton




 You better knock, knock, knock ... on wood.

Discover the origins of the classic phrase 'knock on wood,' which could be tied to a Victorian-era children's game or have more direct ties to old pagan traditions.

Matt Soniak








The teddy bear has a very specific origin story.

The origins of the teddy bear involve President Theodore Roosevelt, a bear hunt, a political cartoon, and the owner of a candy shop in New York.

Erin McCarthy
Blowing gray bubbles just wouldn’t feel as fun.

We uncover why bubblegum is traditionally pink—and also explore what flavor bubblegum even is.

Sam Hindman