The Serious Subtext of Japan’s “Cute” Culture
The real reasons behind Japan's culture of kawaii, or "cute."
Did The 1965 Watts Riots Change Anything?
Sociological data from immediately after the riots in Watts, Los Angeles, in 1965 show major disparities in attitude by race.
Do People Regret Going to Law School?
The legal profession is in crisis, with more new lawyers than demand, and law schools are scaling back. Is law school still a safe bet?
How Olympics Host Cities Hide Their Homeless
Olympic host cities have historically cleared away and marginalized their homeless in advance of the games.
The Debate Over Eid
Muslims seem to celebrate a holiday called Eid over and over, and at different times. Here's why.
What Are the Dog Days of Summer?
The "dog days of summer" are attributed to the rise of Sirius, the Dog Star, but research into the lore suggests another dog entirely.
The Value of Using Harry Potter to Teach Politics
A political scientist argues that Harry Potter can be used to teach students about politics, institutional behavior, globalization, and identity.
Vacationing with Julia Child
Want to get away this summer? Come daydream with us to the kitchen of Julia Child, in the south of France...
What We Saw Under the Microscope’s Lens
The lens, a tool technology that helps make the invisible world visible, brought a revolutionary perspective to our descriptions of nature.
What Beauty Product Trends Really Mean
American beauty products were once widely exported abroad and seen as representations of freedom and modernity.