Science
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Humans may be among ‘walking dead’ species
Scientists in the USA and Mexico say mankind is now responsible for the sixth mass extinction event in Earth’s history. If we all die, will those who come next miss us?
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The baby who became a political football
The heartrending case of Charlie Gard, a terminally ill baby, has gripped the world. His parents are pressing for experimental treatment; his doctors say no cure is possible. Who is right?
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‘Dream’ of precision medicine getting closer
The UK’s chief medical officer has called on doctors to deliver her “genetics dream”: personalised medicine which is available for everyone. What does this mean? And is it a good idea?
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How to turn anxiety to your benefit
Everyone suffers from anxiety from time to time, and it can mean our performance suffers. But there are techniques which can make anxiety work for you. Have we lost sight of its benefits?
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How to talk to aliens (without being killed)
A new in-depth article has shed light on the scientists trying to contact aliens. But what if extraterrestrials are unfriendly? Should we really be drawing attention to ourselves?
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Texts, tweets and twerps: the rise of rudeness
Road rage. Fat shamers. Victim blaming. We are all getting ruder, according to a brilliant new book by British writer Danny Wallace. Is this true — and is it necessarily a bad thing if so?
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Yellowstone grizzly ‘no longer endangered’
After decades of population growth, one of America’s favourite animals will be taken off the endangered species list. What does this mean? And why are conservationists unhappy?
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Nasa prepares mission to ‘touch the sun’
The US space agency has unveiled a new probe, which will set off next year to study the sun’s activity. This is the latest phase in our complex relationship with the star. How will it end?
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Brain injuries could mark ‘the end of sport’
A study of NFL players suggests that brain injuries can be easily detected from an early age. More and more sports are coming under fire for the dangers they pose. Will they survive?
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China assumes climate mantle as USA falters
As the USA pulls out of the Paris climate accord, China has signalled its intention to lead the fight against climate change. A geopolitical shift is taking place. Should we welcome it?
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Scientists warn of looming climate ‘disaster’
Scientists have greeted President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement with dismay. What could the implications be? And could scientists solve climate change?
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Trump poised to quit Paris climate deal
Donald Trump is set to fulfil his promise of pulling the USA out of the Paris climate accord. Some are calling it a “terminal blow” for conservation. What does all this mean?
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Scientists hail evidence of parallel universes
Yet another sign has been discovered that supports the increasingly popular “multiverse theory” — the idea that there is an infinite number of universes. Would that make physics pointless?
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Scientists’ hopes for drugs to stop dementia
After the breakthrough in 2013 and further studies on mice, experts now hope that drugs already safely used on humans will stop the onset of terrifying degenerative brain diseases.
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Emergency: the Great Barrier Reef is dying
Young Australians are protesting against the destruction of the Great Barrier Reef. As the world fixates on Trump and North Korea, why is this not the biggest news story in the world today?