Nineteenth-century photographer Edward Curtis was known for his images of Native Americans. Watch this video that details the Smithsonian Institute’s recent acquisition of more than 700 of Curtis’s images.
Tag Archives: Culture & Society
Fail Better
In this online version of the Fail Better exhibition, you can explore discoveries, inventions, and ideas that failed. The exhibition looks at the importance of these failures in leading to success.
Common 19th-Century Arguments Against Women’s Suffrage, Neatly Refuted
Take a look at this pamphlet from 1866. In it the author gives common arguments against affording women the right to vote and then refutes each one.
Why Street Protests Don’t Work
In this column, Moisés Naím argues that in order to effect change, a movement needs more than a large crowd inspired to gather by social media.
Should I let my child take more risks?
Parents understandably want to protect their children from harm. But should they loosen the reins?
Our privacy is for sale, we have to accept that. But what’s the price tag?
Computer programs gather information about people based on every web site, news article, or item that they view or buy online. Using algorithms, computers can form a picture of each person’s personality better than a friend or family member. Read what you should know about protecting yourself and your privacy.
Welcome to the World’s Nicest Prison
Is the purpose of prison to punish or to reform? John D. Sutter highlights a controversial Norwegian prison that doesn’t feel like a prison at all—because its aim is not taking away freedom but instead creating good neighbors.
Relationships Are More Important than Ambition
Imagine your classmates twenty years from now: Who will be happier—the friend who becomes a high-powered entrepreneur with a car to match, or the friend who chooses a modest lifestyle with time for friends and family? Learn why some people are more ambitious than others and whether ambition can make them happy.
The Orchestra Playing for Peace
The World Orchestra for Peace brings together the best musicians from around the world to play in the spirit of peace and unity, even if that means the musicians are from warring countries. Learn about this remarkable group, and watch a video of its performance in Jerusalem.
The U.S. Constitution Needs You
September 17 of every year is observed as Constitution Day. However, not many Americans have read the important document that outlines our freedoms. Read this article to find out how to make the Constitution relevant to your life.
To Gossip or Not to Gossip: That Is the Question
Some recent studies have shown that human beings are actually hard-wired to gossip, and that gossip serves a social function in helping us bond with others. But do the negative consequences of gossip outweigh the positive ones?
Are we in control of our own decisions?
When you decide to buy something, are you sure it’s a good choice? Watch Dan Ariely explain how we may not be as in control of our own decisions as we think.
Flag Burning and Free Speech
The First Amendment protects, among other rights, the freedom of speech. In this opinion piece, UCLA law professor Eugene Volokh delves into what the Founders meant by the term “speech.”
10,000 Year Clock
Look 10,000 years into the past, and you’ll see humans beginning to cultivate the earliest agricultural crops. What changes would a look 10,000 years into the future reveal? For Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos, the distant future will include a functioning clock, being built now in the desert of West Texas.
Why Taking Breaks Will Help You Get More Work Done
Through this quick animation, discover why breaking up your work will make you more productive. Be sure to try out some of the tips for yourself!
Indian Country Diaries: Pow Wow Culture
Pow wows are events in which Native Americans can express their cultural heritage through dance and foster a sense of community. Traditional pow wows have been around for hundreds of years, but a newer kind of intertribal event has become popular recently. Read about how the two forms coexist in today’s pow wow culture.
A 13-year-old eagle huntress in Mongolia
Using golden eagles to hunt is an ancient tradition in the Altai mountains of Mongolia. Meet Ashol-Pan, who might be the only girl learning this challenging skill.
The Perfect Statement On Holiday Consumerism: A $500 Cardboard Box
A recycled cardboard box for Christmas? Ad agencies created this gift which they say will stimulate creativity but also help raise funds for two charitable causes. Read about it here.
Wheat People vs. Rice People
Anthropologist T.M. Luhrmann analyzes the independence and interdependence displayed in different cultures.
Activist climbs a mountain to raise funds for youth peace center in Chicago
Activist Ja’Mal Green raises funds for nonprofit Majostee Allstars, which is converting an old bank building in the Aubrun Gresham neighborhood of Chicago into a community center.