Science & Society
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Science & Society
Autistic Barbie reminds us stories have the power to counter misinformation
Representation and rigorous science compete with the Trump administration’s false claims about autism.
- Anthropology
When the fish stop biting, ice fishers follow the crowd
Study showcases how modern-day foragers stick together when seeking food. Such social forces could help explain the emergence of complex thinking.
- Artificial Intelligence
AI models spot deepfake images, but people catch fake videos
A new study finds that humans and AI spot different kinds of deepfakes — hinting at the need to team up to fight them.
- Psychology
With effort, procrastinators can change
Procrastination in young adulthood is not set in stone, though change is difficult, a long-term study shows.
- Health & Medicine
Tear gas and pepper spray can have lasting health effects
The chemicals are widely used for crowd control, but their long-term health risks are poorly understood.
- Computing
Computer science can help abuse and trafficking survivors regain safety
Nicola Dell, a computer scientist studying the role of technology in intimate partner violence, cofounded the Center to End Technology Abuse.
- Health & Medicine
New dietary guidelines flip the food pyramid
The new guidelines emphasizes eating protein and full-fat dairy while reducing sugar, carbs and ultraprocessed foods.
- Physics
Here’s the science behind nuclear weapons testing
Nuclear weapons haven’t been tested in the United States since 1992. Find out why, and what could happen if the hiatus ends.
- Science & Society
These scientific discoveries brought us joy in 2025
Amidst a tough year for science, glimmers of joy burst through in revelations from the silly to the sublime.
- Science & Society
This new year, maybe resolve to quit
Western cultural stories tend to emphasize perseverance. But science shows that knowing when to quit has a place in our success too.
- Health & Medicine
Research hailing the benefits of the COVID-19 shot keeps coming
There was more good health news about the COVID-19 vaccine for infants, kids and adults in December. There’s still time to get the shot this winter.
- Health & Medicine
He made beer that’s also a vaccine. Now controversy is brewing
An NIH scientist’s maverick approach reveals legal, ethical, moral, scientific and social challenges to developing potentially life-saving vaccines.
