The Language Wars
As a society becomes increasingly unstable, linguistic innovation happens more rapidly.
The Infamous Tale of the Murderous Chemistry Professor
The murder of Dr. George Parkman on the campus of Harvard College was one of the most famous crimes in nineteenth century America.
Judith Butler
The philosopher inspired a whole generation of American queer theorists.
A George Saunders Outtake
George Saunders' trademark dark humor is especially on display in this "deleted scene" from the novella Pastoralia, available for free here.
Retelling the American West in the Museum
In a time filled with “alternative truths,” historian Marsha Weisiger argues for more sophisticated approaches to telling the history of the American West.
The Dead Sea Scrolls: Still Unscrolling
The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered some 70 years ago after 2000 years in the desert, have had a controversial and conflicted life.
Why Were Americans Obsessed With Ghosts in the 1940s?
In 1940s America, two folklorists undertook the task of collecting and studying the "modern" ghost stories of their time.
Are We Spoiling Our Kids with Too Much Praise?
Is the “gold medal for all” approach fueling a generation of narcissists?
What the Girl Scouts’ Founder Wanted Girls to Know
Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world celebrate World Thinking Day, a holiday aimed at helping global scouts connect and reflect on their past.
Meet Alan Emtage, the Black Technologist Who Invented ARCHIE, the First Internet Search Engine
Internet search has had a profound impact on our own internal makeup—on how we learn, and how we think.