Upon consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth articles shines. These pieces explore complex subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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