Science & Society

  1. Computing

    This computer scientist uses math to help people be treated fairly

    Ariel Procaccia has designed computer algorithms that help split up credit on group projects, distribute donations, pick citizens’ assemblies and more.

    By Maria Temming
  2. Tech

    For teens, virtual reality worlds aren’t all fun and games

    More than a third of surveyed teens who used VR headsets reported they had experienced hate speech, bullying or harassment in virtual reality environments.

    By Kathiann Kowalski
  3. Tech

    Move over Iron Man, exoskeletons are getting real 

    Real-world wearable devices help people stay safe at work and accomplish everyday tasks.

    By Aaron Tremper
  4. Artificial Intelligence

    Want your own AI double? There could be big benefits — and risks

    People are using AI to mimic their own voice, likeness and personality. Some are excited about these new digital clones. Others worry, what could go wrong?

    By Kathryn Hulick
  5. Artificial Intelligence

    AI job-screening tools are very prejudiced, study finds

    AI job-screening tools ranked white-associated names higher than Black-sounding ones. Male names also were preferred. Black male names were never favored.

    By Payal Dhar
  6. Ecosystems

    Analyze This: In movies, wetlands often get a bad rap

    Swamps in films are often linked to danger, death and strange things. But movies also highlight wetlands’ biodiversity and resources.

    By Carolyn Wilke
  7. Health & Medicine

    U.S. teen tobacco use has hit a record low

    In 2024, tobacco use among middle- and high-school students reached a record low. But new vapes and nicotine-based products keep coming.

    By Aimee Cunningham
  8. Climate

    Why is Los Angeles on fire?

    High heat and little rain have extended wildfire season to year-round in some parts of California. Fast winds and dry conditions are fueling L.A.’s current infernos.

    By Nikk Ogasa
  9. Psychology

    Analyze This: Skipping through videos may increase boredom

    Contrary to what people often expect, fast-forwarding or switching videos may leave viewers more bored and less satisfied.

    By Carolyn Wilke
  10. Humans

     Is synthetic food dye bad for kids? Here’s what the science says

    California is banning some food dyes in school meals. Though FDA says the dyes are safe, some studies show they may alter kids’ behavior.

    By Sophie Hartley
  11. Tech

    To stay cool, some future homes may build on past power-free tech

    Accordion-pleated walls and other heat-managing structures could cool homes in hot, dry places naturally — without electricity.

    By Diya Dwarakanath
  12. Tech

    This young engineer built an affordable electronic braille reader

    Thermo Fisher JIC finalist Yash Mehta got inspired to make a better braille device after visiting a school for blind students in Old Delhi, India.

    By Maria Temming