As we reflect on the past year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – 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 confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
