How pervasive is humans’ footprint on the Earth? Author Randall Munroe explores the question.
Tag Archives: People
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.
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?
The 12 cognitive biases that prevent you from being rational
We may think we make our decisions in a rational way, based on the facts, but it turns out that our brains have other ideas.
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.