Science & Society

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We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.

More Stories in Science & Society

  1. 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.

    By Aaron Brooks
  2. Psychology

    With effort, procrastinators can change

    Procrastination in young adulthood is not set in stone, though change is difficult, a long-term study shows.

    By Sujata Gupta
  3. 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.

    By Nikk Ogasa
  4. 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.

    By Rachel Crowell
  5. 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.

    By Tina Hesman Saey
  6. 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.

    By Emily Conover
  7. 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.

    By Laura Sanders
  8. 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.

    By Sujata Gupta
  9. 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.

    By Aimee Cunningham