Stephanie Coontz

Stephanie Coontz teaches history and family studies at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, and is the director of research and public education for the Council on Contemporary Families, which she chaired from 2001-04. She is the author of Marriage, A History: How Love Conquered Marriage (Viking Press).

Stories by Stephanie Coontz

Over the last 100 years, the American family has gotten more diverse and egalitarian, but also smaller and more isolated.

The Family Revolution

Fall 2007

The last century has seen a transformation of marriage and family life. But to address new challenges, argues Stephanie Coontz, we can’t delude ourselves into thinking there ever was a Golden Age for couples and families.

Four Ways Happiness Can Hurt You
May 3, 2012
Can feeling good ever be bad? New research says yes—and points the way to a healthier, more balanced life.
How to Foster Group Creativity
April 11, 2012
In the second of a two-part conversation, Imagine author Jonah Lehrer explains how science can help teams become more creative.
You’re Never Too Old to Build Emotional Intelligence
April 24, 2012
A recent study suggests we can learn to regulate and manage our emotions even after we’re reached adulthood.

Four Ways Happiness Can Hurt You
May 3, 2012
Can feeling good ever be bad? New research says yes—and points the way to a healthier, more balanced life.
Five Lessons in Human Goodness from “The Hunger Games”
April 18, 2012
The plot of the new film sounds cynical. But it reveals a surprising amount about the science of human goodness.
Lessons in Creativity from Caine’s Arcade
May 1, 2012
The latest viral video sensation is more than a portrait of a cute and creative kid. It's a guide to how we can nurture kids' imagination.

The GGSC is Hiring!
April 1, 2012
We're looking for an education program director.
Being Human 2012: The Science of Human Experience
March 24, 2012
Generation Wii… or Generation We?
May 22, 2012
In this commencement address, Dacher Keltner asks today's graduates to look for the best in themselves and in humanity.