During a speech to launch the UN “HeForShe” campaign, actress Emma Watson argued that men play a major part in achieving gender equality.
Tag Archives: Culture & Society
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.
Social Networking Sites and Politics
What’s a little political disagreement among friends? In many cases, it’s the last straw that causes people to cut ties to acquaintances on social networks like Twitter and Facebook. The Pew Research Internet Project set out to document how often this happens.
Top 10 Scariest Flicks of All Time
What are your scariest movies? Here’s a pick of the top ten scariest movies of all time. See if you agree!
New Beginnings: Immigrant Women and the American Experience
Women immigrants have played a dynamic role in transforming America socially, politically, and economically.
The 11 Ways That Consumers Are Hopeless at Math
A new study in The Journal of Marketing which reveals that most consumers don’t know enough math to tell if they are getting a good deal or not.
Frederick Douglass’ Take on Independence Day
Listen to a discussion of Frederick Douglass’ famous speech which criticized the celebration of Independence Day celebrations in a time of slavery.
Beauty Is in the Brain of the Beholder
Studies show that beauty exists as an abstract concept in the brain which implies it is a perception rather than a reality.