Nostr notes by The Conversation U.S.

The most interesting aspects of Jimothy’s story are 2 ...

2026-07-24T15:16:14+02:00

The most interesting aspects of Jimothy’s story are 2 remarkable evolutionary achievements, according to a neuroscientist: a brain capable of adapting to an imperfect body, and a patient and caring raccoon mother who translated her offspring’s capabilities into abilities.
https://theconversation.com/jimothy-the-raccoon-survived-against-the-odds-a-testament-to-sophisticated-brains-and-devoted-mothers-288179

In the world of political insults, veganism is framed as weak, ...

2026-07-11T20:13:39+02:00

In the world of political insults, veganism is framed as weak, elitist and out of touch, according to communication scholars.
https://theconversation.com/republicans-have-beef-with-texas-rep-james-talarico-why-does-meat-matter-in-us-politics-285143

A new survey shows 37% of Ukrainians view Trump as an enemy of ...

2026-07-11T08:14:39+02:00

A new survey shows 37% of Ukrainians view Trump as an enemy of their country, while only 17% see him as a friend. Yet 73% still view Americans broadly as allies.

https://theconversation.com/we-asked-ukrainians-what-they-think-of-trump-more-view-him-as-an-enemy-than-a-friend-287126

From time to time, The Conversation features interesting work our ...

2026-07-07T04:00:24+02:00

From time to time, The Conversation features interesting work our editors are involved in.

Kalpana Jain, our senior religion and ethics editor, explores the meaning of belonging as she returns home from a trip to Malaysia and a Faith Angle gathering in Park City, Utah.
https://theconversation.com/a-journalists-journey-through-faith-and-identity-286324

Who seems “more American”: Lucy Liu or Kate Winslet? ...

2026-07-03T12:30:43+02:00

Who seems “more American”: Lucy Liu or Kate Winslet?

Psychology studies show many Americans (including kids) say the white British actress.

Bias runs deep.

https://theconversation.com/whos-the-most-american-psychological-studies-show-that-many-people-are-biased-and-think-its-a-white-english-speaker-256418

Texas approved mandatory Bible readings in public schools ...

2026-06-30T22:02:18+02:00

Texas approved mandatory Bible readings in public schools beginning in 2030, reopening a constitutional debate that stretches back 150 years.

https://theconversation.com/texas-approves-mandatory-bible-readings-in-public-schools-reigniting-a-century-long-debate-286326

Supermassive black holes aren’t going to destroy the Earth. But ...

2026-06-27T20:00:30+02:00

Supermassive black holes aren’t going to destroy the Earth.

But they do play a major role in space and keeping objects in orbit.

An astronomer breaks down what we know about them and the mysteries that remain.
https://theconversation.com/what-are-supermassive-black-holes-everything-you-need-to-know-and-what-astronomers-are-still-learning-about-these-mysterious-objects-283838

The Supreme Court’s ruling against a Rastafarian prisoner’s ...

2026-06-27T00:00:30+02:00

The Supreme Court’s ruling against a Rastafarian prisoner’s right to sue for damages raises questions about whether minority faiths have as much protection under the First Amendment as Christianity.
https://theconversation.com/why-a-supreme-court-case-over-a-haircut-could-be-a-setback-for-religious-liberty-283045

“We interviewed social media marketers in the United States, ...

2026-06-25T20:03:32+02:00

“We interviewed social media marketers in the United States, Ireland, India, Germany and Australia and saw a profession quietly running on empty: passionate, creative people who are mentally drained by jobs that rarely turn off.”

Ever wonder why men’s and women’s zippers/buttons are on ...

2026-06-12T02:07:19+02:00

Ever wonder why men’s and women’s zippers/buttons are on opposite sides?

It traces back to old class and gender norms: Wealthy women were often dressed by maids, so buttons were placed for someone else to fasten them.

When zippers arrived later, manufacturers just kept the same patterns.
https://theconversation.com/why-are-buttons-and-zippers-on-different-sides-of-mens-and-womens-clothes-255922

Would you trust a thermometer that gave answers based on past ...

2026-06-12T02:07:18+02:00

Would you trust a thermometer that gave answers based on past data instead of measuring it?
https://theconversation.com/ai-is-replacing-humans-in-responding-to-some-surveys-but-simulated-opinions-are-not-the-same-as-public-opinion-280988

Why do some people trust an AI chatbot over a doctor? A scholar ...

2026-06-07T04:00:25+02:00

Why do some people trust an AI chatbot over a doctor? A scholar who studies behavioral decision-making examines a lawsuit that offers a revealing look at how trust is built — and sometimes misplaced — in healthcare.
https://theconversation.com/what-pennsylvanias-ai-chatbot-lawsuit-teaches-us-about-the-psychology-behind-medical-trust-283865

Betting has turned passion into a transaction, with poor families ...

2026-06-07T00:06:24+02:00

Betting has turned passion into a transaction, with poor families in Brazil and elsewhere spending money that could have gone to food, transport, diapers, electricity, or rent.
https://theconversation.com/the-next-world-cup-wont-be-only-about-passion-for-soccer-it-will-also-be-about-betting-obsession-283250

#WorldCup #sportsbetting

Turns out screaming “DEBATE ME!” at strangers is… not ...

2026-05-28T18:08:52+02:00

Turns out screaming “DEBATE ME!” at strangers is… not actually a great way to change minds.

People are far more open to changing their views when conversations feel less like a cage match and more like two actual humans talking (which means having patience, empathy and promoting compromise and understanding).

https://theconversation.com/debate-me-doesnt-work-here-are-better-ways-to-disagree-and-maybe-change-minds-280403

True: Hurricane season starts in less than two weeks. Also true: ...

2026-05-26T04:00:27+02:00

True: Hurricane season starts in less than two weeks.

Also true: Federal cuts to NOAA could stretch America’s forecasting system to the breaking point just as storms are getting stronger.
https://theconversation.com/hurricane-forecasts-have-improved-dramatically-saving-lives-but-federal-cuts-threaten-to-stretch-noaa-to-the-breaking-point-280242

Wildfires in Colorado are reshaping landscapes—and how people ...

2026-05-11T04:05:35+02:00

Wildfires in Colorado are reshaping landscapes—and how people visit them. Burned areas are seeing significant, long-lasting drops in visitation.
https://theconversation.com/fire-is-transforming-the-us-wests-public-lands-research-shows-overlooked-cost-to-recreation-279831

Some “clinical trials” may be less about discovering new ...

2026-05-09T06:12:14+02:00

Some “clinical trials” may be less about discovering new science and more about getting doctors hooked on prescribing a drug.

These “seeding trials” can put profit over patients.

https://theconversation.com/clinical-trials-that-are-actually-marketing-ploys-targeting-doctors-how-seeding-trials-put-profit-over-patients-280398

Danish parents encourage unstructured play (especially the kind ...

2026-05-08T00:00:32+02:00

Danish parents encourage unstructured play (especially the kind that lets children test their limits) as a way to help them grow into competent, independent adults.

More from a psychologist from Denmark:
https://theconversation.com/denmarks-hands-off-approach-to-parenting-could-offer-a-blueprint-for-raising-more-resilient-self-reliant-kids-281485

The tech device you're using right now relies on critical ...

2026-05-01T08:12:18+02:00

The tech device you're using right now relies on critical minerals, but have you thought about where they came from?

A new UN report describes 'sacrifice zones' across several countries where hazardous pollution from critical minerals mining is harming the health, food and water of some of the world's poorest people.
https://theconversation.com/the-race-to-mine-critical-minerals-for-ai-and-clean-energy-is-creating-sacrifice-zones-that-harm-water-and-health-of-worlds-poor-281524

The United Arab Emirates is leaving a major global oil alliance ...

2026-04-29T21:02:55+02:00

The United Arab Emirates is leaving a major global oil alliance in a move that’s been building for years.

It highlights rising tensions with Saudi Arabia and could signal a broader political shift in the Gulf region.

https://theconversation.com/uaes-opec-exit-has-been-long-in-the-works-and-may-mark-the-beginning-of-a-gulf-realignment-281699
https://theconversation.com/uaes-opec-exit-has-been-long-in-the-works-and-may-mark-the-beginning-of-a-gulf-realignment-281699

250 years ago, the reading of the Declaration of Independence was ...

2026-04-28T20:00:59+02:00

250 years ago, the reading of the Declaration of Independence was greeted with cries of “God bless the Free States of North America”.

But the 4 mentions of God in the founding document were left deliberately generic, allowing for all sorts of believers to embrace it.
https://theconversation.com/what-the-declaration-of-independence-does-and-doesnt-say-about-god-271078

A new U.S. refugee policy is prioritizing white South Africans, ...

2026-04-09T06:00:01+02:00

A new U.S. refugee policy is prioritizing white South Africans, raising questions about how race has shaped who gets refuge today and throughout #history.

#Histodons nprofile1qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyd968gmewwp6kyqpqwdh93g3fttmlf4u0tmp060wtwdyjlrw02hnstev58fr23ug6eeasefl0ee (nprofile…l0ee)

https://theconversation.com/us-refugee-policy-for-white-south-africans-is-part-of-a-century-long-effort-to-keep-some-english-speaking-nations-white-277171

An astrophysics professor at Penn State noticed half her 300 ...

2026-04-04T00:00:51+02:00

An astrophysics professor at Penn State noticed half her 300 students were skipping class.

Her solution: turn the lectures into a video game where players explore Mars, other planets, and galaxies while learning astronomy.
https://theconversation.com/students-were-skipping-my-astrophysics-class-to-play-video-games-so-i-turned-the-class-itself-into-a-video-game-277450

Major League Baseball is expanding deeper into gambling with a ...

2026-04-03T22:02:53+02:00

Major League Baseball is expanding deeper into gambling with a new deal tied to prediction market Polymarket — even as betting scandals continue to surface across the sport.
https://theconversation.com/mlb-doubles-down-on-gambling-with-new-polymarket-deal-279176

1,200% That’s how much kratom-related poisonings and ...

2026-04-03T05:10:51+02:00

1,200%

That’s how much kratom-related poisonings and hospitalizations have surged in the past decade, as regulators struggle to keep pace with a drug often marketed as “natural”, and without a prescription needed.

https://theconversation.com/kratom-poisonings-surged-1200-over-the-past-decade-and-regulators-are-struggling-to-keep-up-with-the-dangers-277161

If using ChatGPT is cheating, what about ghostwriting? An English ...

2026-03-30T08:00:55+02:00

If using ChatGPT is cheating, what about ghostwriting? An English professor explores the old debate behind a new panic.
https://theconversation.com/if-using-chatgpt-is-cheating-what-about-ghostwriting-the-old-debate-behind-a-new-panic-278754

💗💙 Gender pressure starts early. Kids as young as 5 already ...

2026-03-24T07:00:20+01:00

💗💙 Gender pressure starts early.

Kids as young as 5 already feel the need to prove they’re “boy enough” or “girl enough.”
https://theconversation.com/gender-conformity-starts-young-and-boys-and-girls-fall-in-line-in-different-ways-275996

https://theconversation.com/gender-conformity-starts-young-and-boys-and-girls-fall-in-line-in-different-ways-275996

Higher deductions for state and local taxes, a “Made in ...

2026-03-10T11:10:01+01:00

Higher deductions for state and local taxes, a “Made in America” car purchase deduction and an overtime pay deduction are among the tax code changes that could increase your tax rebate this year, according to an accounting professor.
https://buff.ly/oQvinwz

Snow-covered mountain peaks reflect the Sun's rays back ...

2026-03-10T03:37:01+01:00

Snow-covered mountain peaks reflect the Sun's rays back toward space instead of absorbing them, which helps maintain those freezing temperatures even on bright, sunny days, explains a climatologist.

https://buff.ly/a20MtF3

Social media can play a positive role by drawing attention to ...

2026-03-10T01:33:01+01:00

Social media can play a positive role by drawing attention to atrocities – both past and present – which can make them less likely to occur, according to a scholar of transitional justice in the post-Arab Spring world.

https://theconversation.com/social-media-can-draw-attention-to-atrocities-a-key-factor-in-reducing-risk-of-recurrence-274273

Many patients also told Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly something else changed ...

2026-03-09T15:36:48+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…nnll
_________________________

Many patients also told Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly something else changed too: The cravings that drive smoking, drinking and drug use started to quiet down as well. ⬇️

GLP-1 drugs quiet ‘drug noise’ as well as 'food ...

2026-03-09T15:36:48+01:00

GLP-1 drugs quiet ‘drug noise’ as well as 'food noise'

People taking Ozempic, Wegovy and other GLP-1s often describe “food noise” disappearing — the constant mental chatter about food suddenly goes quiet. ⬇️

Meet “Tiger Queen” Mabel Stark: The woman once known as ...

2026-03-07T21:31:00+01:00

Meet “Tiger Queen” Mabel Stark:

The woman once known as America’s most famous female tiger trainer. Her life in the circus was thrilling, groundbreaking and ultimately tragic.
https://theconversation.com/the-inspiring-and-tragic-story-of-mabel-stark-americas-most-famous-female-tiger-trainer-276570
#Histodons nprofile1qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyd968gmewwp6kyqpqwdh93g3fttmlf4u0tmp060wtwdyjlrw02hnstev58fr23ug6eeasefl0ee (nprofile…l0ee) #WomensHistoryMonth

Trauma teams aren't assembled ahead of time – they're ...

2026-03-05T19:31:01+01:00

Trauma teams aren't assembled ahead of time – they're formed on the fly in the E.R.

A new study shows that when team members have worked together before and know who has what skills, patients recover faster and spend fewer days in the hospital.
https://theconversation.com/trauma-patients-recover-faster-when-medical-teams-know-each-other-well-new-study-finds-274713

Artemis II has been plagued by similar issues to those faced by ...

2026-03-05T10:18:01+01:00

Artemis II has been plagued by similar issues to those faced by Artemis I, leading NASA to shake up its plan to return humans to the Moon. An aerospace expert explains:

https://theconversation.com/with-artemis-ii-facing-delays-nasa-announces-big-structural-changes-to-the-lunar-program-277169

Bad Bunny sings that reggaeton is Puerto Rican, but the genre was ...

2026-02-28T05:59:00+01:00

Bad Bunny sings that reggaeton is Puerto Rican, but the genre was actually born in Panama out of a collision between English and Spanish, Jamaican dancehall and hip-hop, explains a sociologist who researches the music’s roots.

https://theconversation.com/bad-bunny-says-reggaeton-is-puerto-rican-but-it-was-born-in-panama-276347

Florida is considering deep cuts to its AIDS Drug Assistance ...

2026-02-25T08:10:01+01:00

Florida is considering deep cuts to its AIDS Drug Assistance Program, which helps more than 31,000 low-income residents with HIV afford medication.

Doctors warn that losing coverage could mean more infections, worse health outcomes and preventable deaths.

https://theconversation.com/floridas-proposed-cuts-to-aids-drug-program-threaten-patient-care-and-public-health-276248

Who knew Dracula would become such a red-hot romantic lead? ...

2026-02-22T18:03:01+01:00

Who knew Dracula would become such a red-hot romantic lead? 🩸❤️

Count Dracula started as a revolting predator — an old creep. But by the 1970s, sexuality had become a bigger part of vampire stories, and the monster started lusting and falling in love.

Today’s “Dracula” embraces a monster who yearns.

https://theconversation.com/how-dracula-became-a-red-hot-lover-275789

Probability isn't just about coin flips. It’s the math ...

2026-02-22T08:10:00+01:00

Probability isn't just about coin flips.

It’s the math behind AI’s next word, the strength of your password, and how doctors test new treatments.

https://theconversation.com/probability-underlies-much-of-the-modern-world-an-engineering-professor-explains-how-it-actually-works-273332

Parents don't need a special approach to help their kids ...

2026-02-12T05:59:00+01:00

Parents don't need a special approach to help their kids develop empathy and creativity through bedtime stories.

A study of 6 to 8-year-olds found that simply reading aloud works, with or without stopping to ask reflection questions.

https://theconversation.com/reading-to-young-kids-improves-their-social-skills-and-a-new-study-shows-it-doesnt-matter-whether-parents-stop-to-ask-questions-274926

Social media moves at the speed of events, while journalism moves ...

2026-02-10T18:06:01+01:00

Social media moves at the speed of events, while journalism moves more slowly, at the speed of verification. A Navy War College strategist argues the real problem in journalism’s credibility gap is this structural time gap. And it causes a serious erosion in trust.
https://buff.ly/lhhgFjj

In dozens of states, an increasing number of legislative seats ...

2026-02-07T18:00:30+01:00

In dozens of states, an increasing number of legislative seats are going completely uncontested by one of the two major parties.

Without real competition, elections risk going from exercises in popular sovereignty to a mere administrative formality, explains a political scientist. https://buff.ly/RPM1VXw

Do we morally owe #taxes? The case against paying taxes is ...

2026-02-07T02:33:00+01:00

Do we morally owe #taxes?

The case against paying taxes is stronger than you might think, but the best reason to pay may be humility: it’s the surest way to treat fellow citizens fairly.

Philosophers from Socrates to Locke debate it: https://buff.ly/em3ZNVQ

Calling something “domestic terrorism” isn’t just a label, ...

2026-02-06T23:39:36+01:00

Calling something “domestic terrorism” isn’t just a label, it’s a legal judgment that, before the Trump Administration, required the government to first weigh the evidence and intent behind an incident. https://buff.ly/6hJniaZ

In 2023, a sci-fi magazine shut down submissions after being ...

2026-02-06T00:38:00+01:00

In 2023, a sci-fi magazine shut down submissions after being flooded with AI-written stories. That problem is now everywhere — AI-generated text overwhelming courts, journals, newsrooms, and HR departments.

AI text detectors are good, but they can’t keep up with #AI, which is getting faster and more sophisticated.

https://theconversation.com/ai-generated-text-is-overwhelming-institutions-setting-off-a-no-win-arms-race-with-ai-detectors-274720

Letting AI write your Valentine’s message may save you time, ...

2026-02-04T21:31:02+01:00

Letting AI write your Valentine’s message may save you time, but it’ll likely make you feel guilty.

Writing it yourself, even imperfectly, feels better 💌

https://theconversation.com/whether-its-valentines-day-notes-or-emails-to-loved-ones-using-ai-to-write-leaves-people-feeling-crummy-about-themselves-271805

A 13-year-old asked whether the universe might be a simulation. A ...

2026-02-03T10:43:00+01:00

A 13-year-old asked whether the universe might be a simulation. A physicist explains philosopher Nick Bostrom's logic: if future humans can create realistic simulations of countless worlds, probability suggests we're in one now. https://buff.ly/cUqFKU9

About 1 in 4 U.S. children have at least one immigrant parent. ...

2026-02-03T05:59:00+01:00

About 1 in 4 U.S. children have at least one immigrant parent. Restricting family reunification visas weakens the informal care networks that allow families to work and remain economically stable, undermining long-term economic growth. https://buff.ly/vY2y0Ee

Tip #3: Eat consistently. Regular meals and snacks help prevent ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…h4ex
_________________________

Tip #3: Eat consistently.

Regular meals and snacks help prevent extreme hunger and cycles of restriction and overeating.

All foods can fit in a balanced diet, a dietitian says. Rigid ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

All foods can fit in a balanced diet, a dietitian says.

Rigid food rules often do more harm than good. It’s flexibility that can actually support better health.

How to get started with this way of thinking (thread) ⬇️
https://buff.ly/Q2lZv0Y

#health

Tip #1: Drop the “good” vs. “bad” food labels. Food ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…zhxl
_________________________

Tip #1: Drop the “good” vs. “bad” food labels.

Food doesn’t have moral value. Neutral language helps reduce guilt and stress around eating.

Tip #4: Reintroduce foods you’ve restricted. Start small. ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…2zks
_________________________

Tip #4: Reintroduce foods you’ve restricted.

Start small. Allowing foods back in can reduce anxiety and build trust with your body. Treat yourself to a little chocolate!

Tip #2: Listen to internal cues. Hunger, fullness, satisfaction ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…sk65
_________________________

Tip #2: Listen to internal cues.

Hunger, fullness, satisfaction and how food makes you feel matter more than external diet rules.

Tip #5: Balance, not perfection. You can enjoy foods you like and ...

2026-02-02T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…2ecw
_________________________

Tip #5: Balance, not perfection.

You can enjoy foods you like and include nutrients that help you feel satisfied and well.

Children with a parent or family member who is detained, or are ...

2026-02-01T08:10:00+01:00

Children with a parent or family member who is detained, or are part of a drawn-out immigration court case, are twice as likely to have anxiety as young adults – and a variety of other mental health issues. Researchers who study child adversity look at the long-term harms. https://theconversation.com/theres-long-lasting-negative-effects-for-children-like-liam-ramos-who-are-detained-or-watch-their-parents-be-deported-274271

From Argentina’s dictatorship to today’s ICE raids, mothers ...

2026-02-01T02:21:17+01:00

From Argentina’s dictatorship to today’s ICE raids, mothers have turned grief into resistance.

A political scientist who lived through Argentina’s junta draws urgent parallels.

A collaboration with Rewire News Group:
https://theconversation.com/how-government-killings-and-kidnappings-in-argentina-drove-mothers-to-resist-and-revolt-and-eventually-win-273440

nprofile1qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyd968gmewwp6kyqpqwdh93g3fttmlf4u0tmp060wtwdyjlrw02hnstev58fr23ug6eeasefl0ee (nprofile…l0ee) #Histodons

EVs now represent more than 10% of new car sales in 39 countries, ...

2026-01-31T19:31:00+01:00

EVs now represent more than 10% of new car sales in 39 countries, including Vietnam at 38% and Indonesia at 15%.

In the U.S., that figure is less than 10%.

The gap signals a competitive problem that goes far beyond climate – it's about who controls the future of automotive jobs and technology. https://theconversation.com/america-is-falling-behind-in-the-global-ev-race-thats-going-to-cost-the-us-auto-industry-274422

Solo diners and museumgoers write reviews rated as more helpful ...

2026-01-25T12:10:00+01:00

Solo diners and museumgoers write reviews rated as more helpful than those from people visiting with others.

Observers perceive solo visitors as more genuinely interested in the experience, making them influential customers that businesses should pay attention to. https://theconversation.com/doing-things-alone-is-on-the-rise-and-businesses-should-pay-more-attention-to-that-even-on-valentines-day-273227

The idea that Old Testament laws should govern the United States ...

2026-01-14T18:00:45+01:00

The idea that Old Testament laws should govern the United States is at the core of a movement that, though small in numbers, resonates across many areas of American religious and political life.

(Pictured: Doug Wilson, a pastor and author in Moscow, Idaho)
https://theconversation.com/what-is-christian-reconstructionism-and-why-it-matters-in-us-politics-266915

Rural schools are perfectly positioned for astronomy education ...

2026-01-14T14:39:00+01:00

Rural schools are perfectly positioned for astronomy education (they have darker skies!)

But they often lack funding, broadband and STEM staff.

A Smithsonian project to give telescopes to schools is helping to change that.

https://theconversation.com/rural-areas-have-darker-skies-but-fewer-resources-for-students-interested-in-astronomy-telescopes-in-schools-can-help-266848

Myth 1: Rural America is disappearing. Reality: While many rural ...

2025-12-29T00:38:04+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…k2ha
_________________________

Myth 1: Rural America is disappearing.

Reality: While many rural counties lost population, about one-third grew, especially near cities or natural amenities. Rural places aren’t vanishing, they’re changing and sometimes becoming urban or suburban.

Rural America is often talked about as if it’s one place with ...

2025-12-29T00:38:04+01:00

Rural America is often talked about as if it’s one place with one story. It isn’t.

Rural demographers break down 6 commonly-held myths about rural America, and why getting them wrong has real consequences (thread) ⬇️

https://theconversation.com/6-myths-about-rural-america-how-conventional-wisdom-gets-it-wrong-269037

A Black Little League team in 1955 South Carolina sparked one of ...

2025-12-28T12:10:01+01:00

A Black Little League team in 1955 South Carolina sparked one of the biggest crises in youth baseball history and led to the creation of an all-white rival league across the South. https://theconversation.com/how-bigotry-crushed-the-dreams-of-an-all-black-little-league-team-263003

Studying philosophy does make people better thinkers, according ...

2025-12-28T05:59:00+01:00

Studying philosophy does make people better thinkers, according to new research on more than 600,000 college grads https://theconversation.com/studying-philosophy-does-make-people-better-thinkers-according-to-new-research-on-more-than-600-000-college-grads-262681

Work offsites actually work. Research shows retreats help people ...

2025-12-28T04:37:00+01:00

Work offsites actually work. Research shows retreats help people form new connections and get more collaboration opportunities afterward. https://theconversation.com/resolve-to-network-at-your-employers-next-offsite-research-shows-these-retreats-actually-help-forge-new-connections-270762

When even Republicans think Republicans are in trouble… A wave ...

2025-12-28T02:33:00+01:00

When even Republicans think Republicans are in trouble…

A wave of GOP members are retiring or resigning ahead of #2026, hinting at a rough midterm map. https://theconversation.com/who-thinks-republicans-will-suffer-in-the-2026-midterms-republican-members-of-congress-271285

#USPolitics #election

AI fakes are everywhere now and they’re getting super hard to ...

2025-12-27T22:38:00+01:00

AI fakes are everywhere now and they’re getting super hard to tell apart from the real thing.

What’s coming in the new year:
https://theconversation.com/deepfakes-leveled-up-in-2025-heres-whats-coming-next-271391

Why do puffer jackets feel warmer (and lighter) than ever? Smart ...

2025-12-27T21:31:00+01:00

Why do puffer jackets feel warmer (and lighter) than ever?

Smart materials + classic physics means the heat stays in and sweat stays out.

The neat science behind how coats keep you comfortable:
https://theconversation.com/new-materials-old-physics-the-science-behind-how-your-winter-jacket-keeps-you-warm-266877

Even before menopause begins, hormone shifts change how your body ...

2025-12-27T19:31:00+01:00

Even before menopause begins, hormone shifts change how your body uses energy and builds muscle.

Strength training, protein and sleep can help women counter rising insulin resistance and muscle loss.

https://theconversation.com/midlife-weight-gain-can-start-long-before-menopause-but-you-can-take-steps-early-on-to-help-your-body-weather-the-hormonal-shift-271070

Resolve to network at your employer’s next ‘offsite’ – ...

2025-12-27T00:38:00+01:00

Resolve to network at your employer’s next ‘offsite’ – research shows these retreats actually help forge new connections https://theconversation.com/resolve-to-network-at-your-employers-next-offsite-research-shows-these-retreats-actually-help-forge-new-connections-270762

Deepfakes leveled up in 2025 – here’s what’s coming next ...

2025-12-26T22:38:00+01:00

Deepfakes leveled up in 2025 – here’s what’s coming next https://theconversation.com/deepfakes-leveled-up-in-2025-heres-whats-coming-next-271391

New materials, old physics – the science behind how your winter ...

2025-12-26T21:31:01+01:00

New materials, old physics – the science behind how your winter jacket keeps you warm https://theconversation.com/new-materials-old-physics-the-science-behind-how-your-winter-jacket-keeps-you-warm-266877

Midlife weight gain can start long before menopause – but you ...

2025-12-26T18:37:14+01:00

Midlife weight gain can start long before menopause – but you can take steps early on to help your body weather the hormonal shift
https://buff.ly/jR2DNUG

What world was Jesus born into? A historian describes the ...

2025-12-25T19:31:00+01:00

What world was Jesus born into? A historian describes the turbulent times of the real nativity https://theconversation.com/what-world-was-jesus-born-into-a-historian-describes-the-turbulent-times-of-the-real-nativity-268080

The celibate, dancing Shakers were once seen as a threat to ...

2025-12-25T18:23:49+01:00

The celibate, dancing Shakers were once seen as a threat to society – 250 years later, they’re part of the sound of America https://theconversation.com/the-celibate-dancing-shakers-were-once-seen-as-a-threat-to-society-250-years-later-theyre-part-of-the-sound-of-america-265828

Sweeping science cuts in 2025 halted clinical trials, erased ...

2025-12-23T18:06:01+01:00

Sweeping science cuts in 2025 halted clinical trials, erased public health data and forced researchers into impossible choices.

“This year nearly broke me as a scientist,” one writes.

Six researchers share their stories: https://theconversation.com/this-year-nearly-broke-me-as-a-scientist-us-researchers-reflect-on-how-2025s-science-cuts-have-changed-their-lives-271282

West Antarctica has collapsed before, and it wasn’t slow or ...

2025-12-23T17:01:43+01:00

West Antarctica has collapsed before, and it wasn’t slow or quiet 😳

New research shows past ice loss triggered earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis, offering a stark warning that future melting could unleash sudden, catastrophic geological changes. https://theconversation.com/west-antarcticas-history-of-rapid-melting-foretells-sudden-shifts-in-continents-catastrophic-geology-263895

Trump is reportedly pursuing a Christmas peace deal in Ukraine. ...

2025-12-23T16:02:11+01:00

Trump is reportedly pursuing a Christmas peace deal in Ukraine. Turns out, using the holidays for diplomacy has a long history.

Sometimes it works, sometimes it's pure theater, and sometimes leaders use the season to launch surprise attacks instead. https://theconversation.com/from-truce-in-the-trenches-to-cocktails-at-the-consulate-how-christmas-diplomacy-seeks-to-exploit-seasonal-goodwill-271478

Celibate, communal — and once seen as a real threat to society. ...

2025-12-23T14:39:00+01:00

Celibate, communal — and once seen as a real threat to society.

“The Testament of Ann Lee”, starring Amanda Seyfried, hits theaters on Christmas Day and explores how the Shakers shocked 18th-century America, and still shape our music and culture today. https://theconversation.com/the-celibate-dancing-shakers-were-once-seen-as-a-threat-to-society-250-years-later-theyre-part-of-the-sound-of-america-265828

When a killer stands to inherit from their victim, the law steps ...

2025-12-23T13:43:59+01:00

When a killer stands to inherit from their victim, the law steps in.

After the deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, attention has turned to the “slayer rule” — a long-standing legal doctrine that bars murderers from profiting from their crimes.

Here’s how it works: https://theconversation.com/how-the-slayer-rule-might-play-a-role-in-determining-who-will-inherit-wealth-from-rob-reiner-and-his-wife-272171

I study rat nests − here’s why rodents make great archivists ...

2025-12-22T04:44:03+01:00

I study rat nests − here’s why rodents make great archivists https://theconversation.com/i-study-rat-nests-heres-why-rodents-make-great-archivists-270357

ByteDance’s agreement to sell TikTok puts app’s algorithm in ...

2025-12-22T00:44:01+01:00

ByteDance’s agreement to sell TikTok puts app’s algorithm in the spotlight – a social media expert explains how the ‘For You’ page works and what’s to come https://theconversation.com/bytedances-agreement-to-sell-tiktok-puts-apps-algorithm-in-the-spotlight-a-social-media-expert-explains-how-the-for-you-page-works-and-whats-to-come-265658

How to reduce gift-giving stress with your kids – a child ...

2025-12-21T23:43:00+01:00

How to reduce gift-giving stress with your kids – a child psychologist’s tips for making magic and avoiding tears https://theconversation.com/how-to-reduce-gift-giving-stress-with-your-kids-a-child-psychologists-tips-for-making-magic-and-avoiding-tears-272201

As DOJ begins to release Epstein files, his many victims deserve ...

2025-12-21T20:42:20+01:00

As DOJ begins to release Epstein files, his many victims deserve more attention than the powerful men in his ‘client list’ https://theconversation.com/as-doj-begins-to-release-epstein-files-his-many-victims-deserve-more-attention-than-the-powerful-men-in-his-client-list-272414

Inflation in September was closer to 3%, and wage growth over the ...

2025-12-21T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…64gg
_________________________

Inflation in September was closer to 3%, and wage growth over the past year has been the weakest since 2021.

When questioned, Leavitt deflected, attacking the media and accusing critics of pushing “untrue narratives.”

Karoline Leavitt’s White House briefings aren’t just spin – ...

2025-12-21T04:37:00+01:00

Karoline Leavitt’s White House briefings aren’t just spin – they reflect what George Orwell warned about: lies divorced from reality, and the use of “doublethink” to have a word (like “transparency”) mean just the opposite. A historian who studies Orwell explains:

Thread ⬇️ https://theconversation.com/karoline-leavitts-white-house-briefing-doublethink-is-straight-out-of-orwells-1984-270675

Just one example: At a Dec. 11, 2025 briefing, Leavitt declared ...

2025-12-21T04:37:00+01:00

In reply to nevent1q…h288
_________________________

Just one example: At a Dec. 11, 2025 briefing, Leavitt declared the economy strong: inflation at “2.5%” and real wages up “$1,200 for the average worker,” calling the figures “real, factual data.”

(Both those bits of “real, factual data” are wrong)

Walking in nature reduces activity in the brain region linked to ...

2025-12-21T00:38:00+01:00

Walking in nature reduces activity in the brain region linked to sadness and rumination.

A psychologist on why active rest periods—not couch time—are what actually restore us during the holidays. https://theconversation.com/rest-is-essential-during-the-holidays-but-it-may-mean-getting-active-not-crashing-on-the-couch-270396

Pediatric brain cancer research: cut. Faster chemical safety ...

2025-12-20T22:38:00+01:00

Pediatric brain cancer research: cut.
Faster chemical safety testing: cut.
Training doctors to treat addiction: cut.
Six scientists spoke about the devastating impact of 2025’s federal science funding cuts on their work, on their colleagues and on society. https://theconversation.com/this-year-nearly-broke-me-as-a-scientist-us-researchers-reflect-on-how-2025s-science-cuts-have-changed-their-lives-271282

The number of Americans receiving ACA subsidies doubled between ...

2025-12-20T21:31:00+01:00

The number of Americans receiving ACA subsidies doubled between 2021 and 2024. Now that pandemic-era subsidies are set to expire, a gerontologist who studies the health system argues any real solution requires lawmakers to resolve the question of who should pay for health care. https://theconversation.com/as-millions-of-americans-face-a-steep-rise-in-health-insurance-costs-lawmakers-continue-a-century-long-battle-over-who-should-pay-for-health-care-271901

A rat nest preserved for over 200 years under the floorboards of ...

2025-12-20T19:31:00+01:00

A rat nest preserved for over 200 years under the floorboards of a historic Philadelphia house contains thousands of plants that help archaeologists understand daily life in colonial America. One archeologist pored through 11 pounds of material from the nest. https://theconversation.com/i-study-rat-nests-heres-why-rodents-make-great-archivists-270357

Boredom affects all ages, genders and cultures, and teens are ...

2025-12-20T18:00:27+01:00

Boredom affects all ages, genders and cultures, and teens are especially prone to boredom. Natural selection favors traits that offer a leg up, so it is unlikely that boredom would be so prevalent if it did not deliver some advantages. https://buff.ly/EKMBBAC

Local democracy is holding strong, but rural communities are ...

2025-12-20T16:02:01+01:00

Local democracy is holding strong, but rural communities are falling behind on voter engagement, new survey of Michigan officials shows https://theconversation.com/local-democracy-is-holding-strong-but-rural-communities-are-falling-behind-new-survey-of-michigan-officials-shows-271672

Nick Fuentes is a white nationalist who believes America’s ...

2025-12-20T14:39:00+01:00

Nick Fuentes is a white nationalist who believes America’s identity depends on preserving a white majority. A scholar of the American right examines how antisemitism and antizionism are connecting him with some Black conservative influencers. https://buff.ly/vz3cX89

Seventy years ago, Jonas Salk and his team worked in a lab ...

2025-12-20T12:10:00+01:00

Seventy years ago, Jonas Salk and his team worked in a lab between a morgue and a darkroom to develop the world’s first successful polio vaccine.

A filmmaker who made a documentary on Salk’s work explains why forgetting life before vaccines has real consequences: https://theconversation.com/the-world-risks-forgetting-one-of-humanitys-greatest-triumphs-as-polio-nears-global-eradication-70-years-after-jonas-salk-developed-the-vaccine-in-a-pittsburgh-lab-270042
#vaccineswork

As #AI increasingly brings people the news, it does more than ...

2025-12-20T05:59:00+01:00

As #AI increasingly brings people the news, it does more than simply pass along information.

Large language models subtly highlight certain viewpoints while minimizing others, often without users realizing it. https://theconversation.com/people-are-getting-their-news-from-ai-and-its-altering-their-views-269354

Autocracies in transition: In 2025, Cameroon and Tanzania rulers ...

2025-12-20T04:37:00+01:00

Autocracies in transition: In 2025, Cameroon and Tanzania rulers clung to power — but look more vulnerable than ever https://theconversation.com/autocracies-in-transition-in-2025-cameroon-and-tanzania-rulers-clung-to-power-but-look-more-vulnerable-than-ever-270718

The Vietnam and Iraq wars were preceded by White House deception ...

2025-12-20T02:33:01+01:00

The Vietnam and Iraq wars were preceded by White House deception and lies -- and now Trump's case against Venezuela is eerily similar. https://theconversation.com/deception-and-lies-from-the-white-house-to-justify-a-war-in-venezuela-weve-seen-this-movie-before-in-run-ups-to-wars-in-vietnam-and-iraq-272044

Sudan's civil war has killed more than 150,000 people and ...

2025-12-20T00:38:00+01:00

Sudan's civil war has killed more than 150,000 people and displaced millions in just over two years, making it among the world's deadliest conflicts today. A historian provides a visual guide to help us understand what is going on and the toll it has taken on the Sudanese population. https://theconversation.com/sudans-civil-war-a-visual-guide-to-the-brutal-conflict-271429

Walking in nature reduces activity in the brain region linked to ...

2025-12-19T21:31:01+01:00