How Reading Makes Us More Human
A debate has erupted over whether reading fiction makes human beings more moral. But what if its real value consists in something even more fundamental?
Ideas 2013
Our annual guide to modest proposals that can change the world—plus full coverage of the Aspen Ideas Festival.
What the Digital Brains of the Future Might Be Like
An entrepreneur and long-time neuroscience hobbyist attempts to merge his two loves.
The Electronic Future of Cigarettes
Aiming for a tobacco-free society is myopic. Embrace the safer alternative.
Innovation: The History of a Buzzword
In the 17th century, "innovators" didn't get accolades. They got their ears cut off.
The Incarceration Epidemic
About one-fourth of all incarcerated people on Earth is in the U.S. That constitutes a public health problem.
Sleep Deprivation in Hospitals Is a Real Problem
Simple changes can make recovery more restful, and better overall.
Has the U.S. Passed Peak Car?
A new analysis suggests we may have. Here's why you should still be skeptical.
PRISM Is Bad for American Soft Power
We need a real debate on how much privacy we're ready to sacrifice in exchange for security.
What Does 'American' Actually Mean?
In Latin America, "American" means anyone from the American continent. U.S. citizens claiming the word are considered gauche or imperialist. So what's the solution?