Health
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Russian scientists unearth ancient viruses
Should scientists be examining prehistoric viruses? As Russian researchers announce that they will start studying frozen pathogens, some fear their curiosity might doom humanity.
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UK celebrates one-way road to freedom in June
Is "back to normal" the right thing to hope for? As the world looks hopefully towards the end of the pandemic, some are asking if now is the time to start building “better” instead.
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Row intensifies over vaccine passports
Are they a good idea? Several countries already require proof of vaccination to allow travel. Some hope these passports can help reopen the economy; others are bitterly against them.
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‘Drop jail threats. Vaccinate the world now!’
Could we cure all disease with a trillion dollars? As many reacted in fury to Britain’s 10 year jail threat for illegal travel, experts warned that the only real answer must be global.
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Power nap key to healthy brain say scientists
Is sleep the secret of success? A new study by Chinese scientists shows that napping could be the key to a healthy brain. But some still insist sleep is nothing more than a waste of time.
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Time to get rid of all borders, experts say
Should we get rid of all borders? As countries bicker over vaccine distribution, some thinkers dream of a world without boundaries. But others believe borders are integral to order.
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A grim toll and a question of responsibility
Should Boris Johnson resign? As the UK passed a terrible milestone, the Prime Minister faced hard questions about the government’s response to the pandemic, and how it measures up.
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EU threatens to cut off vaccine supplies
Are coronavirus jabs the new currency of power? In the past, empires rose and fell on the back of salt, gold and oil. Now some argue it will be vaccines that reshape global politics.
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Scientists on the brink of ‘ageing cure’
Would you want to live forever? In a new book, one scientist argues that we need to find a “cure” for the ageing process – but some think it would be a mistake to meddle with nature.
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Virus brings a return of the Dunkirk spirit
Is it a good comparison? With tens of thousands of people volunteering to help with Britain’s vaccination programme, some see a parallel with the greatest rescue operation of World War Two.
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Found! Light at the end of the tunnel
Could next week be a positive turning point for the world? As the vaccine rollout expands and Donald Trump leaves the White House, many believe it marks the start of a brighter chapter.
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Learning to love our lives under lockdown
Can occasional lockdowns be good for us? Being confined to our homes by the pandemic has been a frustrating experience for many – but it has also produced some unexpected benefits.
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Joy and anxiety as vaccine jabs start today
Are we all ready to go back to social life? As the world gears up for mass vaccination programmes, a return to normality is in sight. But some are in two minds about the prospect.
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Elliot Page: I am transgender, says Juno star
Could this be a turning point for the film industry? A Hollywood icon has embraced his gender identity. Some say it is a landmark not only for him, but for the trans actors of tomorrow.
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‘Hi, honey – your dinner’s in the test tube’
Should we welcome laboratory-grown meat? Its advocates say it will help the environment and save animals from needless suffering. But first, producers have to overcome the “yuck factor”.