Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These accounts probe intricate themes from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. While several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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