‘Big Math’ is here, and humans can shape its potential
Machine-powered math can take on huge problems with millions of unknowns. That can be concerning—but also holds enormous potential for good.
Trees hold the stories of our lives
In “The Comfort of Crows,” the trees in your own yard and neighborhood can tell the story of people’s lives.
Algebra helps us navigate hard realities by making them abstract
In “Six Math Essentials,” algebra provides a set of tools for solving problems, from ancient Babylonia to household tasks of today.
A Tyrannosaurus rex mom is built for tearing flesh—and blending in
In “Tyrant Lizard Queen,” a T. rex mother passes her unique build, from powerful jaw to tiny arms, on to her newly hatched offspring.
How ‘problem bears’ became test engineers’ allies
In “Kobuk the Destroyer,” a bear finds an unlikely job using the destructive flair that took him out of the wild to begin with.
What are ‘sleeping beauties’ in the world of knowledge?
In a new book, artist David Byrne explores how important ideas are forgotten—and then remembered—over time.
How Caesar’s civil war led to a devastating loss of knowledge
In “The Museum of Lost Things,” a beheading and a late-night visitor lead to the devastating fire at the Library of Alexandria.
The laws of physics are just one window on reality
In “On the Equality of All Things,” Carlo Rovelli challenges the idea that physical laws can explain everything about the world.
25,000 trilobites and the dizzying biodiversity of the ancient ocean
In “What the Wild Sea Can Be,” a snapshot of plankton and trilobites from eons past hints at the scale of the ocean’s existence.
Finding political identity in nature and community
In “A Voice Like Mine,” Deb Haaland finds connection through running, and reflects on how we all have a role in the politics of community.