Columnist Noah Smith outlines the findings of a study that shows human influence matters more than genetics when measuring intelligence and success. He argues that Americans should take note.
Tag Archives: People
Shackleton’s Ad – Men Wanted for Hazardous Journey
Arctic explorer Ernest Shackleton is said to have advertised for companions: “Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful.” But did he really?
Juliet’s Wall Graffiti
Though not as poetic as Shakespeare, scores of tourists inscribe their own words of love on a wall outside what is billed as Juliet’s house in Verona, Italy.
Native American Pow Wows Celebrate Patriotism, Unity
Learn about the traditions shared by the many different nations and tribes of modern Native Americans.
Signs of Life
How pervasive is humans’ footprint on the Earth? Author Randall Munroe explores the question.
Teenager fulfills her philanthropic dreams
Sixteen year-old Bansini Doshi, spends her time between studies donating books cloths, and other basic items to the underprivileged section of the society through her NGO (non-profit organization), called Dia Foundation. She proves that with determination and great empathy for humanity age doesn’t matter when it comes to helping another human being.
Are polar bear plunges good for you?
Taking a dip into the icy sea on New Year’s Day has become quite a worldwide tradition. But, doctors advise that taking the plunge is literally not for the faint-hearted!
15 striking photos from the best wildlife photographers of the year
Take a look at some stunning and captivating imagery from The Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2017 Awards in Britain. The captions provide some descriptive background to each image.
Some Reflections on ‘My Year of No Shopping’
You might be surprised by what you will find stashed away in cabinets and cupboards! Ann Patchett discovered the effect of shopping for only essential items for a whole year. And, this article is a reflection by another writer on Anne’s essay. How do you think you might feel about taking on such a frugal challenge?
The Next Step
Mars Short Stories – The Write Stuff is an initiative by NASA to engage writers to put technology-based fiction to paper. The aim is to help visualize the potential reality of, in particular, the first human missions to Mars.
Aung San Suu Kyi
The country of Myanmar has been ruled by military dictators for decades, but one woman has refused to be silenced. Learn about the story of Aung San Suu Kyi and her long struggle for democracy in Myanmar.
Double-Bind: Three Women of the Harlem Renaissance
Among the more well-known male writers and artists of the Harlem Renaissance existed women who also deserve to be recognized. Read about three writers whose work reflected being both black and female.
Dads who do chores bolster daughters’ aspirations
In a recent study, researchers at the University of British Columbia found that daughters who see their fathers contribute to household chores are more likely to have higher career aspirations.
People prefer electric shocks to time alone with thoughts
A University of Virginia study found that people prefer not to spend time alone without distractions. This article describes the measures people will take to avoid their own company.
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.
Should I let my child take more risks?
Parents understandably want to protect their children from harm. But should they loosen the reins?
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.