While we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles shines. These pieces probe multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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