While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. These pieces probe complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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