Science
Companies have plans to build robotic horses
Companies plan to build robotic horses, with a small-scale prototype specifically targeted toward young users.
Compressed music might be harmful to the ears
Research suggests compressed music may harm hearing by impairing ear muscles, as shown in guinea pig studies.
How to build strong magnets without rare-earth metals
China’s export restrictions on rare-earth elements may drive innovation in developing strong magnets without them.
Dogs really do look and act just like their owners
Dogs resemble their owners in looks and behavior, with similarities growing stronger over time.
Is your hay fever getting worse?
Climate change is intensifying hay fever by extending pollen seasons. This worsening trend links shifting weather patterns to increased allergy severity.
A landmark study of gender medicine is caught in an ethics row
A landmark gender medicine study faces ethical controversy, with critics deeming it unethical while proponents argue that halting it would be morally wrong.
Rates of bowel cancer are rising among young people
Bowel cancer rates are rising in young people, potentially linked to early exposure to a common intestinal microbe.
The great Iberian power cut need not spell disaster for renewables
The Iberian power cut need not spell disaster for renewables. Instead, it offers valuable takeaways for the sector's future development.
Can at-home brain stimulators make you feel better?
Current research offers scant support for at-home brain stimulators. Evidence suggests these devices lack sufficient backing to reliably improve well-being.
Australia’s dingoes are becoming a distinct species
Australia’s dingoes are evolving into a distinct species, yet many remain targeted under misleading justifications.
Lethal fungi are becoming drug-resistant—and spreading
Drug-resistant lethal fungi are spreading globally, evading current medications. While new antifungals offer hope, the expanding threat remains a critical public health challenge.
AI models can learn to conceal information from their users
AI models can learn to hide information from users, complicating efforts to ensure their transparency and openness.
The Carthaginians weren’t who you think they were
New findings reveal Carthage was a multicultural hub, challenging traditional views of Dido’s ancient metropolis.
We’re hiring a Technical Lead for our AI Lab
The Economist is hiring a Technical Lead for its new AI Lab initiative.
How to form good habits, and break bad ones: trick your brain
Rewire your brain by using minor incentives and altering your environment to cultivate positive habits and discard negative ones.
AI models could help negotiators secure peace deals
AI models are being developed to help negotiators secure peace deals, specifically to facilitate the conclusion of the conflict in Ukraine.
Scientists are getting to grips with ice
Climate change drives water to freeze in surprising new patterns. Researchers are now unraveling the complexities of these unusual ice formation processes.
Microplastics have not yet earned their bad reputation
While emerging evidence raises concerns, microplastics have not yet earned their bad reputation due to a lack of comprehensive human health research.
Electric vehicles also cause air pollution
Electric vehicles cause air pollution through tire and brake wear, despite having zero exhaust emissions.
AI models are helping dirty industries go green
AI helps mining and steel industries adopt greener practices, allowing them to reap the benefits of these technological advancements.