As we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These narratives delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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