Despite the jurassic-sounding name, pteridomania (from the Greek for fern, plant and mania) was responsible for the 19th century fern leaf collector's job.

Most people treat animals as tools for improving human lives. But recent reports reveal (mis)treatment of animals is harming the planet as a whole.

Robert H. Goddard is acknowledged by many as the "father" of rocketry, but it's a strange paternity since he had so little influence on his contemporaries.

According to the Association of Retail Professionals, about 16 to 18 percent of Americans shop at thrift stores in any given year.

Found mainly on Caribbean islands, Pisonia trees resemble any typical large, tropical tree. Typical, that is, until you notice the bones.

Official portraits have been a means of communicating intention and creating image throughout history. Consider three of France's iconic leaders.

Jesus Christ Superstar is a global phenomenon, and with Transparent’s recent use of and even reboot of the rock opera, its fanbase is sure to keep growing.

Chairs were a subject of much debate as far back as the nineteenth century, pitting health and technology against propriety and aesthetics.

First things first: eels are fish.

Welcome to Ask a Professor, our series that offers an insider’s view of life in academia. This month we interviewed Bonnie Nardi.