How Children Took the Smallpox Vaccine around the World
In 1803, nearly two dozen orphan boys endured long voyages and physical discomfort to transport the smallpox vaccine to Spain's colonies.
What Happens to All That Used PPE?
Gloves, masks, and other personal protective equipment have kept us safe during the pandemic. Now they're washing up on beaches around the world.
Blaming People for Getting Sick Has a Long History
Four major theories of disease transmission dominated scientific discourse in the nineteenth century. As one scholar writes, all were political.
The Therapeutic Value of Horror Video Games
In stressful situations, seeking out even more stress can be cathartic.
Police Violence Is a Public Health Issue
Research makes the case that people who fear police violence are less likely to seek out health care.
When the Telephone Was Considered Feminine
Being difficult to understand on the other end of the line was a badge of masculinity.
Calling the Police, without Trusting the Police
A scholar finds nuanced reasoning among poor Black women facing difficult choices about whether to call the cops.
So You Want to Buy a Pet Chicken?
Looking for a sense of comfort and security by buying a chicken? You'll get more than you bargained for.
James Baldwin and Nikki Giovanni in Conversation
In 1971, two legends of Black letters discussed Black manhood, white racism, the role of the writer, and the responsibility to teach.
The Weed Scientist Who Brought Down the Wrath of Stalin
Nikolai Ivanovich Vavilov's hypothesis on the evolution of rye is now accepted. But in the 1930s, his research got him arrested.