On The Alien Question: Where Are They?
The great physicist Enrico Fermi asked this question in the 1950s. There are more than 50 possible "solutions" to Fermi's Paradox: Here, astrophysicist Marcelo Gleiser explores a few.
Humans
Um, Uh, Huh? Are These Words Clues To Understanding Human Language?
Tiny filler words in human rapid-fire conversation hold the key to understanding how language is unique, according to a new book. But anthropologist Barbara J. King raises some questions.
Brain Scientists Look Beyond Opioids To Conquer Pain
The search is on for opioid alternatives that can block pain without causing addiction. One promising candidate: snail venom.
In D.C., Brain Science Meets Behavioral Science To Shed Light On Mental Disorders
The Society for Neuroscience meeting is taking place in Washington, D.C., this weekend. Researchers there are focusing on how to find the biological underpinnings of mental disorders.
The Answer To Life, The Universe — And Everything? It's 63
Over time, the expansion of the cosmos and the passage of light has unlocked 63 orders of magnitude to us, each one a new opportunity for novelty and complexity, says guest blogger Caleb Scharf.
In The Age Of Legalization, Talking To Kids About Marijuana Gets Tougher
Now that recreational marijuana use in California and other states is legal for adults and marketers are ramping up ads, youth drug educators fear that kids may think it's safe for them to light up.
Monks For A Month: College Kids Give Up Talking — And Technology
Students in this "Living Deliberately"' class embrace asceticism and challenge stereotypes of college kids who can't put down their cellphones, says anthropologist Barbara J. King.
EPA Approval Of Bacteria To Fight Mosquitoes Caps Long Quest
Scientists have long sought a way to fight mosquito-borne viruses without pesticides. For researchers like Scott O'Neill, the Wolbachia bacteria offered that chance. But they had to prove it.
Genetically Altered Skin Saves A Boy Dying Of A Rare Disease
An inherited disease called epidermolysis bullosa destroyed the 7-year-old's skin. Scientists grew new skin in the lab without the genetic flaw, and replaced 80 percent of his skin. He is thriving.
The Interdependence Of Humanity And Earth
We owe our existence to little photosynthetic bacteria — but there is much more to this story, as life can only mutate and adapt when the planet offers the right conditions, says Marcelo Gleiser.