Research has shown that certain psychedelic drugs can lower people’s tendency to support strict, top‑down authority. However, these studies were small and not always well controlled. Because of that uncertainty, scientists are calling for bigger experiments with stricter designs to see if the eff
A growing number of Americans now see certain authoritarian governments as better on human rights than their own country. Polls show this shift is especially strong among younger Democrats, who view Iran, Israel, and even China in similar negative ways—or sometimes even favor China over the U. S. Th
May lights up with over 60 book-related events scattered across the Bay, from North Beach to Menlo Park. Instead of the usual literary suspects, this month’s lineup mixes unlikely storytellers—chefs, scientists, athletes, and even a DJ—behind the microphone. A Venezuelan-American writer reflects on
A new push to extend U. S. surveillance powers moved fast this week. House leaders got just enough votes to start debating the bill after a tight two-hour vote. The change would let spy agencies keep collecting data without first asking a judge. Some lawmakers only agreed after pressure from top Rep
Leaders shape what a society finds acceptable. When they joke about violence or treat mass destruction like a game plan, something fundamental shifts. It isn’t just talk. Words from powerful people act like invisible rules. They tell us what behavior is okay now, and what will be okay later. Over ti
The first local elections in Gaza since 2007 let many residents try their hand at voting, a move that could signal a shift in how the Palestinian Authority claims authority over the area. The elections, held on Saturday, included Deir al‑Balah, a city that has suffered less damage than others in
Tunisia just hit pause on one of its most respected human rights organizations, the Human Rights League (LTDH). The group got a one-month suspension order from officials, a move they call part of a bigger push to clamp down on free speech and civil society. The government hasn’t explained why, leavi
Money habits start early, often shaped by what we saw—and didn’t see—around us as kids. Whether you’re aiming to ditch debt, start investing, or simply understand credit scores, the right book can help rewrite those habits. A mix of guides for adults and fun reads for young readers from Black author
The Pope will land in Malabo, the capital on Bioko island, after flying from Angola. He plans to speak with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has ruled since 1979. The visit is part of a longer tour that covers four African countries and 11 cities over 10 days. During his trip, the Pop
During a recent stop in Angola, Pope Leo used his platform to highlight a troubling trend: many people around the world face unfair treatment from those in power. Speaking to a large crowd in Saurimo, near the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo, he pointed out how oppression and dishonesty c
