Voices from the past are still heard today in ancient writing. Learn why archaeologists changed their minds about the origins of writing after discovering tiny tablets in an Egyptian tomb.
Tag Archives: Culture & Society
Horse Domestication Happened Across Eurasia, Study Shows
Humans have used horses for transportation, warfare, and agriculture for thousands of years. Experts are still trying to find out when and where this special bond started.
Portraits of a Generation: Children of Immigrants
Quetzal Maucci, an Argentinean- and Peruvian-American photographer, creates a portrait series depicting children from immigrant families living in the U.S. and tells the stories of their identity struggles in their new culture.
Look, something shiny!
Colorful products overshadow our logical, sensible brain when purchasing. And, marketers strategically use color to guide us in a particular direction. This study from The Ohio State University covers some interesting points on how our brains treat color versus black and white objects.
Life as a Young Carer
In England and Wales there are 170,000 known young carers under the age of 18, who provide care for a family member or friend. However, it’s believed that the real figure is more in the region of 700,000! Read about one carer–Sarah Thomas, now 18–who has been looking after both her parents since she can remember.
Gladwell on GPS: David Was No Underdog
In this video interview, author Malcolm Gladwell explains why he believes that in the Bible story of David and Goliath, David was not the underdog facing a fearful situation.
Emma Watson calls on men to help fight gender inequality: ‘It’s your issue too’
During a speech to launch the UN “HeForShe” campaign, actress Emma Watson argued that men play a major part in achieving gender equality.
Does Fiction Have the Power to Sway Politics?
Two writers argue that works of fiction can trigger political change, sometimes directly, but more often, indirectly. Upton Sinclair, author of The Jungle, is one example.
On front porches, some still divided on Confederate flag
This article from a Charleston, South Carolina, newspaper outlines conflicting views on the Confederate flag.
How Landfills Work
A landfill isn’t just a dump. It’s carefully designed and managed to keep trash separated from the surrounding environment and to reduce moisture and air that would break down trash. Find out more about these complex structures.
Slow boat to Timbuktu
A travel writer explores the contradictions of Africa’s Niger River as it flows through Mali to the ancient city of Timbuktu.
Anti-homeless spikes: ‘Sleeping rough opened my eyes to the city’s barbed cruelty’
It’s easy to view homeless people as “other” without considering why they are homeless or what challenges they face. In some cities, businesses have installed “defensive architecture” designed to stop homeless people from congregating or sleeping in public spaces. Read one writer’s opinion of this practice.
Barrett Brown Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison in Connection with Stratfor Hack
Some consider Barrett Brown, a journalist and activist recently sentenced to five years in prison, a political prisoner. Read the article to decide for yourself.
Working in High School Doesn’t Pay Off the Way It Used To
Is the value of work simply the paycheck at the end of the week, or does it offer more than that? Discuss with your peers.
My Day One: From the Streets of Lahore to the Heart of Texas
In honor of the second annual Immigrant Heritage Month, the White House is inviting people to share their immigrant stories on its blog. In this one, a woman gains a new outlook after learning about her parents’ history, which wasn’t often talked about in their household.
Why the Story of Cinderella Endures and Resonates
The story of Cinderella has been told for centuries. James Deutsch, a professor of folklore, explains why Americans are particularly drawn to the tale.
What Are The Dangers Of A Single Story?
In this radio interview, author Chimamanda Adichie discusses the benefits of hearing stories from multiple points of views. Her original TED Talk on the subject is also included.
12 Immigrants Who Came To America With Nothing And Made A Fortune
Read about 12 immigrants who achieved their American dreams.
Surprising responses to Hamlet Africa tour
Researchers record the reactions of audiences in Africa to a production of Hamlet by a Shakespeare Globe theater troupe.
Saudi Arabia women defy authorities over female driving ban
In Saudi Arabia, no law bars women from driving cars, but cultural tradition does. In recent years, though, some Saudi women have defied the ban and even posted videos online of themselves driving, resulting in official punishment and harassment from neighbors.