As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These pieces delve into complex topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of what happened remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
