Upon reflect on the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such pieces explore complex themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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