As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. Such accounts delve into complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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