In the last 25 years, the field of human evolution has witnessed remarkable growth, showcased by a significant increase in discoveries. Archaeologists have unearthed more fossils, species, and artifacts from diverse locations, from the diminutive “hobbits” to enigmatic creatures inhabiting Indonesian islands. Notably, Homo naledi is known solely from a single deep cave in South Africa. Simultaneously, advanced analytical techniques have enhanced our understanding of these findings, revealing a treasure trove of information about our origins and extinct relatives.
This whirlwind of discoveries has yielded two major lessons. First, since 2000, our understanding of the human fossil record has been extended further back in time. Previously, the oldest known human fossil was 4.4 million-year-old Ardipithecus, but subsequent discoveries in 2000 and 2001 unearthed even older species: Ardipithecus, Orrorin tugenensis from 6 million years ago, and Sahelanthropus tchadensis from 7 million years ago. Additionally, the Orrorin lineage was tentatively identified in 2022, suggesting it is slightly more recent than O. tugenensis.
According to Clement Zanoli from the University of Bordeaux, the discovery of these early human fossils represents “one of the great revolutions” in our understanding of evolution.
The second major lesson has enriched the narrative of how our species emerged from earlier hominins. By 2000, genetic evidence established that all non-Africans descend from ancestors who lived in Africa around 60,000 years ago. This revelation indicated that modern humans evolved in Africa and subsequently migrated, replacing other hominid species.
However, by 2010, the sequencing of the first Neanderthal genome opened a new chapter, along with the DNA analysis of several other ancient humans. These studies revealed that our species interbred with Neanderthals, Denisovans, and possibly other groups, creating a complex tapestry of human ancestry.
Skeletal research has long suggested interbreeding as many fossils exhibit traits that defy clear species categorization, as noted by Sheila Athreya at Texas A&M University. In 2003, Eric Trinkaus and colleagues described a jawbone excavated from Peștera cu Oase, Romania, as a Human-Neanderthal hybrid, based on its morphology. Later genetic testing in 2015 confirmed that individuals from Oase had Neanderthal ancestry, tracing back 4 to 6 generations ago.
This evidence highlights that our species did not merely expand from Africa; rather, our population absorbed genetic contributions from Neanderthals and Denisovans along the way. Genetically, we are a mosaic, a fusion of countless years of diverse human lineages.
Exciting new infrared images from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope showcase the intricate structure of gas and dust expelled by a white dwarf star at the heart of the Helix Nebula.
This web image captures part of the Helix Nebula with stunning detail. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/A. Pagan, STScI.
Located approximately 655 light years away in the constellation Aquarius, the Helix Nebula is a captivating planetary nebula.
First discovered in the early 1800s, it continues to enchant stargazers and professional astronomers alike, owing to its closeness to Earth and mesmerizing visual appeal.
The image captured by Webb’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) reveals a comet-like column with an extended tail tracing the edges of the expanding gas shell, as noted by Webb astronomers.
“Fierce winds from a dying star clash with a frigid shell of gas, sculpting the remarkable structure of the nebula,” they explained.
“The iconic Helix Nebula has been observed by various ground-based and space-based observatories for nearly two centuries since its discovery.”
“Webb’s near-infrared observations highlight these intricate knots, contrasting with conventional imaging techniques. Check out this fantastic image from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.”
This image offers a panoramic view of the Helix Nebula, accentuating the narrow field of view from Webb’s NIRCam instrument. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/A. Pagan, STScI.
The new images additionally highlight the dramatic transition from the hottest to the coldest gas as the shell expands from the central white dwarf star, WD 2226-210.
The bright white dwarf lies at the heart of the nebula, just outside the Webb image’s frame, continuing to influence its surroundings.
“Intense radiation from this star illuminates the surrounding gas, creating vibrant rainbow-colored features: hot ionized gas closest to the white dwarf, cooler hydrogen molecules further away, and protective pockets in the dust cloud where more complex molecules can start to form,” the astronomers noted.
This interaction is vital, paving the way for new planetary systems to potentially form in the future.
“In the Webb images of the Helix Nebula, colors represent temperature and chemical reactions,” they explained.
“A slight blue tint reveals the hottest gas in the area, ignited by powerful ultraviolet light.”
“Further out, the gas transitions into a yellow region where hydrogen atoms merge to form molecules.”
The outer edge, adorned with a reddish hue, marks the coldest material where gas begins to thin and dust can emerge.
“These colors symbolize the star’s last breath transforming into the foundational material for new worlds, enriching our understanding of how planets originate,” the astronomers concluded.
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Experiment on Oxygen Production with Deep-Sea Nodule
Nippon Foundation
Scientists are set to deploy instruments to the ocean floor to explore the intriguing process of metal nodules producing oxygen in the Pacific Ocean. This unexpected phenomenon has ignited significant debate regarding the ethics of deep-sea mining.
In a surprising revelation from 2024, researchers identified that a potato-sized formation in the depths of the Pacific and Indian Oceans—including the distinguished Clarion-Clipperton Zone—functions as a vital oxygen source. This discovery challenges the conventional belief that large-scale oxygen production derives solely from sunlight and photosynthesis.
Dubbed “dark oxygen,” this phenomenon sustains life within the abyss, including microorganisms, sea cucumbers, and predatory sea anemones thriving thousands of meters beneath the surface. This finding casts doubt on proposals from deep-sea mining companies aiming to extract cobalt, nickel, and manganese by removing nodules from the ocean floor. A controversial deep-sea mining company was involved in this discovery, prompting a call for further scientific investigation.
Now, the team responsible for discovering dark oxygen is returning to the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, the prime location for potential deep-sea mining, to verify its existence and comprehend the mechanisms behind its production.
“Where does the oxygen come from for these diverse animal communities to thrive?” asked Andrew Sweetman from the Scottish Marine Science Society. “This could be an essential process, and we’re focused on uncovering it.”
The researchers propose that a metallic layer in the nodule generates an electrical current which splits seawater into hydrogen and oxygen. They’ve recorded up to 0.95 volts of electricity on the surface of the nodules—just below the standard 1.23 volts necessary for electrolysis. However, the team suggests that individual nodules or clusters could produce higher voltages.
Plans are underway to deploy a lander, essentially a metal frame housing various instruments, to a depth of 10,000 meters to measure oxygen flow and pH changes, as the electrolysis process releases protons, increasing water acidity.
Research Lander Deployed Into the Ocean
Scottish Marine Science Society
Given the potential role of microorganisms in this process, the lander will also collect sediment cores and nodules for laboratory analysis. Each nodule is home to approximately 100 million microorganisms, which researchers aim to identify through DNA sequencing and fluorescence microscopy.
“The immense diversity of microorganisms is constantly evolving; we are continually discovering new species,” remarked Jeff Marlow from Boston University. “Are they active? Are they influencing their environment in crucial ways?”
Furthermore, since electrolysis is generally not observed under the intense pressures found on the ocean floor, the team intends to utilize a high-pressure reactor to replicate deep-sea conditions and conduct electrolysis experiments there.
“The pressure of 400 atmospheres is comparable to that at which the Titan submarine tragically imploded,” noted Franz Geiger from Northwestern University. “We seek to understand the efficiency of water splitting under such high pressure.”
The ultimate aim is to carry out electrochemical reactions in the presence of microorganisms and bacteria under an electron microscope without harming the microorganisms.
The United Nations’ International Seabed Authority has yet to decide on the legality of deep-sea mining in international waters, with U.S. President Donald Trump advocating for its implementation. The Canadian company, The Metals Company, has applied for authorization from the U.S. government to commence deep-sea mining operations.
A recent paper authored by Metals Company scientists contends that Sweetman and his colleagues have not produced sufficient energy to facilitate seawater electrolysis in 2024, suggesting the observed oxygen was likely transported from the ocean’s surface by the deployed landers.
Sweetman countered this claim, stating that the lander would displace any air bubbles on its descent, and asserted that oxygen measurement would not have occurred if deployed in other regions, such as the Arctic ocean floor, which is 4,000 meters deep. Out of 65 experiments conducted at the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, he noted that 10% exhibited oxygen consumption while the remainder indicated oxygen production.
Sweetman and his colleagues also discovered that the oxidation phase of the electrolysis process can occur at lower voltages than those recorded on the nodule’s surface. A rebuttal presenting this data has been submitted to Natural Earth Science and is currently under review.
“From a commercial perspective, there are definitely interests attempting to suppress research in this field,” stated Sweetman in response to the Metals Company’s opposition to his findings.
“It is imperative to address all comments, regardless of their origin,” added Marlowe. “That is our current predicament in this process.”
As the new year begins, many individuals reassess their lives and goals. However, as one reader expressed, this journey often leads to confusion instead of clarity. “My New Year’s resolution is to feel fulfilled, but where do I begin?” he asked. “How can I find a new direction in life?”
Experiencing some frustration is entirely normal. Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a universal shortcut to happiness. However, engaging in reflective exercises can help clarify your priorities and enhance your chances of identifying a rewarding path forward. Michaela C. Schippers and Niklas Ziegler from Erasmus University Rotterdam refer to this process as “life craft.” In their review of psychological research on uncovering meaning and purpose, they outline several actionable steps:
First, reflect on your values and passions. What activities bring you joy, and what legacy do you wish to leave? Next, assess your current skills and habits—what do you excel at now, and what would you like to cultivate in the future? Thirdly, evaluate your social connections: who uplifts you, and who drains your energy? Following that, contemplate your career aspirations, your ideal future, and your overarching goals. Lastly, consider your commitments—how can you take responsibility for your actions?
This comprehensive list encompasses both personal and professional realms, emphasizing social connection, a fundamental element of mental well-being. Acknowledging your existing capabilities boosts confidence in your ability to effect change, while identifying growth areas clarifies your future aspirations.
Schippers and Ziegler advocate for utilizing “implementation intentions” when setting goals. This strategy involves crafting a series of “if-then” plans to navigate potential challenges. For example, if you’ve determined that creativity is a core value and aspire to write a novel, you might commit to: “If I arrive home by 7 PM, then I will write for an hour before dinner.”
In the final phase of commitment, seek ways to increase accountability by sharing your goals with others. Research indicates that when students posted selfies along with written statements of their goals on social media, they were more likely to follow through.
Understand that discovering your path is a gradual process. You may revisit these exercises multiple times. Like any craft, enhancing your life requires continuous learning and dedication. Let’s embark on this journey in 2026.
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Michaéla C. Schippers and Niklas Ziegler’s insightful paper can be accessed for free at: doi.org/ghpv8q
Longevity advocates, such as Brian Johnson, often push boundaries in their pursuit of immortality. For those of us looking to celebrate a century with less complexity, dietary changes are typically the first step. While plant-based diets are frequently recommended, recent studies in China indicate many centenarians include meat in their diets, potentially offering crucial benefits, especially for those with low body weight.
Meat is a source of essential amino acids that influence a signaling molecule named mTOR, linked to the aging process. Although numerous studies recommend reducing meat intake for longevity and disease prevention, it’s important to note that vegetarian diets have been associated with increased fractures and instances of malnutrition.
These challenges can be particularly pronounced for older adults with weaker bones, resulting in slower recovery post-surgery. According to Wang Kaiyue from Fudan University in Shanghai, understanding the link between diet and longevity is essential. Wang and colleagues analyzed data from a centralized health database focusing on individuals aged 65 and above.
Within their study, 5,203 participants aged 80 and older in 1998, who were free from cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, or cancer, were surveyed. Approximately 80% identified as meat eaters, while others followed a mainly plant-based diet but occasionally consumed animal products.
Interestingly, meat consumers demonstrated a higher probability of living to age 100 compared to those following vegetarian, pescatarian, or vegan diets. This finding held statistical significance when body weight factored into the analysis.
The likelihood of reaching 100 grew, especially among underweight meat eaters, with 30% reporting daily meat consumption, compared to 24% of underweight vegetarians in 1998. This trend was less pronounced among heavier individuals.
While heavy consumption of meat has been linked with obesity, research supports the role of animal proteins in building stronger muscles and enhancing bone health. According to Wang, such benefits are particularly significant for those lacking body mass.
Nonetheless, a diet rich in vegetables is crucial, with findings indicating participants who consumed vegetables daily tended to have extended lifespans.
“Older adults often face unique nutritional challenges,” says Wang. “Our research implies that dietary guidelines for older individuals should prioritize nutritional balance over strict avoidance of animal products, particularly for those with low body weight.”
This particular outcome may not hold true globally, as dietary habits differ significantly, but “the biological principles connecting nutrition and aging likely have universal relevance,” Wang adds.
According to James Webster from the University of Oxford, while this discovery is noteworthy, it should not drastically alter dietary practices. His team’s previous study highlighted a potential link between vegetarianism and the risk of femoral neck fractures, suggesting potential health issues with a strict vegetarian diet. However, Webster stresses that several studies illuminate the benefits of vegetarianism, especially concerning overall health.
Both vegetarian and meat-inclusive diets can be either healthy or detrimental, depending on nutritional content quality, Webster notes. “Identifying the nutrients essential for a balanced and healthful lifestyle is key,” he says, recommending a rich intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables while limiting salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
“Ultimately, more research is needed to determine the optimal diets for longevity, but a comprehensive view of dietary patterns is imperative,” concludes Webster.
Artificial intelligence is becoming an inescapable reality, seamlessly integrating into our lives. Forget searching for chatbots; new icons will soon appear in your favorite applications, easily accessible with a single click, from WhatsApp to Google Drive, and even in basic programs like Microsoft Notepad.
The tech industry is making substantial investments in AI, pushing users to leverage these advancements. While many embrace AI for writing, management, and planning, some take it a step further, cultivating intimate relationships with their AI companions.
In James Muldoon’s Love Machine: How Artificial Intelligence Will Change Our Relationships, we delve into the intricate connections humans form with chatbots, whether they’re designed for romantic encounters or simply companionship. These AI systems also serve as friends or therapists, showcasing a broad range of interactions we’ve often discussed. New Scientist dedicates 38 pages to this topic.
In one interview, a 46-year-old woman in a passionless marriage shares her experience of using AI to explore her intricate sexual fantasies set in an 18th-century French villa. This opens up broader conversations about utilizing AI in more practical life scenarios, such as during a doctor’s visit.
Another participant, Madison, recounts uploading her late best friend’s text messages to a “deathbot” service, which generates a way for her to maintain communication.
Muldoon’s anecdotes often carry an element of voyeuristic intrigue. They reveal the diverse ways individuals navigate their lives, some paths being healthier than others. What works for one person might prove detrimental for another.
However, a critical question remains. Are we naïve to think that AI services won’t evolve like social media, cluttered with advertisements for profit? Envision a long-term relationship with a chatbot that frequently pushes products your way. What happens if the company collapses? Can you secure backups of your artificial companions, or migrate them elsewhere? Do you hold rights to the generated data and networks? Moreover, there are psychological risks associated with forming attachments to these indifferent “yes-men,” which may further alienate individuals lacking real social connections.
Nonetheless, there are positive applications for this technology. In Ukraine, for instance, AI is being harnessed to help individuals suffering from PTSD, far exceeding the current availability of human therapists. The potential to revolutionize customer service, basic legal operations, and administrative tasks is immense. Yet, Muldoon’s narrative suggests that AI often functions as an unhealthy emotional crutch. One man, heartbroken over his girlfriend’s betrayal, envisions creating an AI partner and starting a family with her.
This book appears less about examining the social impacts of innovative technology and more like a warning signal regarding pervasive loneliness and the critical lack of mental health resources. A flourishing economy, robust healthcare system, and more supportive society could reduce our reliance on emotional bonds with software.
Humans are naturally inclined to anthropomorphize inanimate objects, even naming cars and guitars. Our brain’s tendency to perceive faces in random patterns—pareidolia—has been a survival mechanism since prehistoric times. So, is it surprising that we could be deceived by machines that mimic conversation?
If this provokes skepticism, guilty as charged. While there’s potential for machines to gain sentience and form genuine relationships in the future, such advancements are not yet realized. Today’s AI struggles with basic arithmetic and lacks genuine concern for users, despite producing seemingly thoughtful responses.
Exploring ‘Small Red Dots’ Unveiled by the James Webb Space Telescope
Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, and D. Kocevski (Colby U.)/Space Telescope Science Institute Public Extension Office
The remarkable bright galaxies uncovered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may not be as brilliant as initially thought. These celestial bodies once posed a challenge to our cosmic understanding, implying they were home to supermassive black holes and an unexpected abundance of stars. However, new insights suggest these galaxies may harbor “baby” black holes.
During its initial years surveying the early Universe, JWST serendipitously discovered numerous bright and red galaxies, referred to as “little red dots” (LRDs).
The light emitted by these galaxies indicates the presence of far more mass than previously recognized in any other galaxy. They exhibit star densities that challenge existing models or host black holes larger than expected considering the size of their parent galaxies.
Both scenarios would necessitate a substantial overhaul of our galaxy formation and black hole growth theories in the early Universe.
Initial assumptions posited that the red hue of LRDs was due to copious dust surrounding the black holes or stars. This notion has come under scrutiny, as researchers find little evidence of dust in these extraordinary galaxies.
Jenny Green, a researcher at Princeton University, posits that this discovery warrants a reevaluation of LRD characteristics. “We were confident that if red coloration was due to dust, we’d detect dust emissions. However, we found none,” Green stated. “This suggests our initial assumption about their dust content was flawed.”
Previous analyses gauged the total brightness of the LRDs by assessing specific wavelengths of light linked to hydrogen, calibrated against a model of how dust impacts this light.
In their recent study, Green and her team measured the total light output from two LRD galaxies across various light frequencies, including X-rays and infrared. They discovered that, except for visible light, these galaxies emitted significantly less light than the typical galaxy—implying that LRDs are at least ten times dimmer than earlier estimates. This revelation holds critical implications for the nature of black holes within LRDs.
“If the emitted light is substantially less than we’ve believed, the mass of the black holes is likely much more modest,” Green remarked. “This reduces the tensions that have perplexed us since the black holes no longer need to be exceedingly massive or possess substantial mass initially.”
The new emission patterns imply the black holes may harbor less mass compared to standard black holes. Rohan Naidu from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology describes them as “baby black holes.” He further noted these findings align with the emerging perspective that LRD black holes could be categorized as black hole stars—a unique type of black hole encased in gas.
“In a typical black hole, what we observe is merely a fraction of the total energy emitted by the system. However, we should reconsider the little red dots as bulging black hole stars,” Naidu explained. “Most of their energy appears to be emitted at wavelengths we can detect, suggesting that what we see accurately reflects their output.”
Conversely, Roberto Maiorino from the University of Cambridge emphasizes that one cannot definitively ascertain the black hole’s mass within an LRD, as the emitted light reveals its growth rate rather than its total mass.
Green asserts that the notion of baby black holes holds merit. “If the photon count is significantly lower,” she noted, “this indicates a downward shift in the entire mass scale. On average, they possess lesser masses than previously assumed when we incorrectly categorized them as regular accreting black holes enshrouded in dust.”
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Astronomers utilizing NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope have captured the most detailed infrared images of the Circus Galaxy’s core, making it one of the closest known active galaxies to the Milky Way. Webb’s observations indicate that much of the hot dust surrounding supermassive black holes in galaxies is being drawn into the black holes themselves, contrary to previous models that suggested powerful outward streams.
The Hubble image showcases the Circinus Galaxy, a spiral galaxy located approximately 13 million light-years away in the southern constellation Circinus. A close-up from Webb reveals the core’s glow in infrared light, highlighting the intricate features obscured by dust. Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / Webb / Hubble / Enrique Lopez-Rodriguez, University of South Carolina / Deepashri Thatte, STScI / Alyssa Pagan, NOIRLab / CTIO at STScI / NSF.
The Circus Galaxy, also known as ESO 97-G13 or LEDA 50779, is situated about 13 million light-years from Earth, nestled south of the constellation Circinus. This galaxy has fascinated astronomers due to its center being enveloped in a dense cloud of gas and dust.
Traditional ground-based telescopes have faced challenges in isolating regions near the central black hole, where matter spirals inwards and emanates intense infrared light. However, Webb’s state-of-the-art technology enabled Dr. Julien Girard and his team at the Space Telescope Science Institute to pierce through this dust veil with extraordinary clarity.
This remarkable breakthrough was achieved by employing Webb’s Near-Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrometer (NIRISS) in a specialized high-contrast mode known as aperture masking interferometry.
This innovative technique transforms the instrument into a compact interferometer, merging light captured through various small apertures to generate precise interference patterns.
By examining these patterns, astronomers were able to reconstruct a finely detailed image of the Circus Galaxy’s central engine, revealing that the majority of infrared radiation originates from the donut-shaped torus of dust encircling the black hole, rather than from materials being ejected outward.
Dr. Girard remarked, “This is the first instance where Webb’s high-contrast mode has been employed to observe an extragalactic source.” He expressed hope that their findings will inspire fellow astronomers to leverage aperture masking interferometry to study faint but relatively small, dusty structures surrounding bright objects.
The supermassive black hole remains active, continuously consuming surrounding matter. Gas and dust conglomerate in a torus around the black hole, forming a rotating accretion disk as material spirals inward. This disk generates heat through friction, releasing light across diverse wavelengths, including infrared.
New data from Webb indicate that most of the infrared emissions near the center of the Circus Galaxy stem from the innermost region of this dusty torus, challenging previous assumptions that outflow dominated emissions.
This pioneering technique lays the groundwork for more profound investigations of black holes in other galaxies. By applying Webb’s high-contrast imaging to subsequent targets, researchers aim to establish a broader catalog of emission patterns, which could ascertain whether the behavior observed in the Circus Galaxy is typical among active galactic nuclei or a distinct case.
Their discoveries not only present a clearer perspective on the feeding mechanisms of black holes but also underscore the escalating power of interferometry in space-based astronomy.
More observations are forthcoming, as Webb continues to redefine what can be observed from the most concealed regions of the universe.
Dr. Enrique López Rodríguez, an astronomer at the University of South Carolina, noted, “We will likely require a statistical sample of a dozen or two dozen black holes to comprehend how the mass of the accretion disk and its outflow correlate with the black hole’s power.”
For further details, refer to the results published in today’s edition of Nature Communications.
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E. Lopez Rodriguez et al. 2026. JWST interferometry imaging reveals a dusty torus obscuring the Circinus Galaxy’s supermassive black hole. Nat Commun 17, 42; doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-66010-5
Same-sex sexual activity isn’t exclusive to humans; various primates engage in it too.
A recent study identified 59 non-human primate species, including bonobos, chimpanzees, and macaques, that exhibit same-sex behavior.
This extensive research, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, is the most thorough review to date of same-sex behavior among primates (excluding humans). The findings challenge existing assumptions about the purpose of sexual activities within the animal kingdom and indicate that sex may serve a more complex social function.
The authors propose that same-sex behavior has evolved to assist primates in navigating complex social structures, reducing conflict, and strengthening bonds. They suggest that both genetic factors and external environmental stresses influence this behavior.
Vincent Savolainen, director of the Georgina Mace Center for the Living Planet at Imperial College London and lead author of the study, stated: “Our findings illustrate that homosexuality is not an anomaly; it’s widespread, beneficial, and essential.”
In their study, Savolainen and colleagues evaluated existing data from 491 primate species, focusing on documented instances of same-sex sexual activities.
“The behaviors observed included mounting, ventral-to-ventral, or ventral-to-dorsal contact, genital touching, and fellatio, encompassing both male-to-male and female-to-female interactions,” the study highlighted. Non-sexual same-sex interactions were excluded to maintain clarity.
Findings suggest that same-sex behavior is more prevalent among animals needing social cohesion to endure harsh environmental conditions, facing predation risks, or competing for resources. It is particularly common in social structures with rigid hierarchies, where sexual behaviors help individuals manage competition and foster alliances to reduce intergroup aggression.
“People often underestimate the significance of same-sex behavior in societal dynamics; it is as crucial as eating, fighting, parenting, and nurturing,” Savolainen remarked.
He likened same-sex sexual interactions to a form of “currency” that may enhance social standing, create opportunities, and facilitate resource sharing.
“In times of social strife, utilizing same-sex behavior can be advantageous,” Savolainen explained.
He noted that while this behavior is likely to be present in more than 23 primate species, limited data in the field and a lack of focused studies hinder comprehensive understanding.
Observing and interpreting same-sex sexual behavior can be challenging for scientists. Historically, many researchers viewed these behaviors as unusual and neglected documentation. Additionally, securing funding for studies on same-sex behavior in animals has been difficult, particularly from government sources.
“We have a plethora of species about which we lack knowledge. This knowledge gap is significant,” Savolainen warned. “Unless we incorporate same-sex behavior into our understanding of social dynamics, we can’t fully grasp how societies operate. We aim to gather more data in forthcoming studies.”
While the new research doesn’t directly relate its findings to contemporary human sexual behavior, it suggests that our ancestors experienced social and environmental pressures similar to those driving same-sex behavior in other primates.
Marlene Zook, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Minnesota who studies same-sex behavior in animals, commented on the interesting breadth of the analysis.
“The extensive range of data collected in this study is particularly impressive,” she noted.
Zook expressed no surprise at the conclusion emphasizing the influence of environmental and social factors on same-sex behavior. The study prompts a reconsideration of widespread misconceptions regarding animal sexual conduct, emphasizing its complexity beyond mere reproduction.
“Sexual behavior often transcends reproduction, a fact evident in our species. However, many tend to overlook this reality in animals,” Zook observed. “People seem to assume that animals, unlike humans, conduct sexual activities purely for procreation purposes, which is quite inaccurate.”
Zook added that the scientific community has traditionally dismissed the concept of a “gay gene” that directly influences homosexual behavior.
“No single gene dictates homosexual behavior in humans or other animals. Instead, a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors shape nearly all behaviors and traits, whether they be physical or psychological,” she concluded.
Male baboon (Papio hamadryas) showcases dominance through mounting behavior.
Credit: Ger Bosma/Alamy
Same-sex sexual behavior in monkeys and apes may enhance social standing and increase reproductive success, particularly in harsh environments with predators or limited food resources.
This conclusion stems from a study exploring variations in same-sex behavior across primate species, suggesting that such behavior, contrary to popular belief, is an adaptive trait aiding survival.
Historically, same-sex behavior has been dismissed as “unnatural.” However, it has now been documented in at least 1,500 animal species, including insects, dolphins, bison, and bonobos.
This could be just the beginning of a larger understanding; many species remain understudied. Additionally, same-sex activities may often go unrecognized due to ambiguous gender identification. Even when recognized, they may not be reported.
In research covering around 20 mammalian species over extended periods, 80% exhibit same-sex behavior. In a detailed study of a rhesus macaque colony (Macaca mulatta) in Cayo Santiago, Puerto Rico, researchers found that three-quarters of males engage in homosexual behavior, according to findings by Vincent Savolainen from Imperial College London.
The prevalence of same-sex behavior poses the question: why is it so common?
This phenomenon is often referred to as “Darwin’s paradox,” arising from the assumption that homosexual behavior is maladaptive, offering no reproductive advantage.
Several theories have been proposed to explain the high occurrence of same-sex behavior, despite its perceived maladaptive nature. One theory suggests that such acts may occur due to the inability of individuals to distinguish between genders. While this idea holds for simpler animals, it likely does not apply to complex animals such as apes and dolphins.
Another explanation is that same-sex behavior could be a byproduct of natural selection for other traits. For instance, some traits enhancing reproductive success in females could be linked to the increased likelihood of homosexuality in males.
Importantly, same-sex behavior may hold adaptive value. One theory suggests it aids males in forming alliances, enhancing their access to females. “Same-sex behavior serves as a social currency within these societies,” Savolainen explains.
His team analyzed data on same-sex behavior in 59 primate species, correlating it with various environmental and social factors. Notably, they observed that same-sex interactions are more prevalent in complex societies and dryer habitats where food scarcity and predation pressure are heightened.
The increased frequency of such behavior in stressful environments suggests its adaptive nature. If same-sex acts were purely for enjoyment, we would expect them to be less frequent in these conditions.
“Same-sex behavior may foster cooperation and cohesion by strengthening social bonds, which is particularly vital in challenging environments,” notes team member Chloe Coxshall, also from Imperial.
However, to establish the adaptive value, this behavior must show a link to enhanced fitness and increased offspring. “This is precisely what I aim to examine in monkey populations,” Savolainen states.
While conclusive evidence identifying same-sex behavior as adaptive in certain primate species remains elusive, scientific inquiry may soon challenge outdated perceptions surrounding this behavior.
What implications does this research hold for understanding human homosexual behavior? If validated, these findings may clarify its commonality. Researchers emphasize that these insights do not dictate moral judgments about such actions, thereby avoiding the naturalistic fallacy—wherein human behavior is evaluated through the lens of animal behavior.
Nevertheless, it’s intriguing to consider that redefining “the fittest” may be necessary in the context of survival of the fittest.
Simulating the human brain involves using advanced computing power to model billions of neurons, aiming to replicate the intricacies of real brain function. Researchers aspire to enhance brain simulations, uncovering secrets of cognition with enhanced understanding of neuronal wiring.
Historically, researchers have focused on isolating specific brain regions for simulations to elucidate particular functions. However, a comprehensive model encompassing the entire brain has yet to be achieved. As Markus Diesmann from the Jülich Research Center in Germany notes, “This is now changing.”
This shift is largely due to the emergence of state-of-the-art supercomputers, nearing exascale capabilities—performing billions of operations per second. Currently, only four such machines exist, according to the Top 500 list. Diesmann’s team is set to execute extensive brain simulations on one such supercomputer, named JUPITER (Joint Venture Pioneer for Innovative Exascale Research in Germany).
Recently, Diesmann and colleagues demonstrated that a simple model of brain neurons and their synapses, known as a spiking neural network, can be configured to leverage JUPITER’s thousands of GPUs. This scaling can achieve 20 billion neurons and 100 trillion connections, effectively mimicking the human cerebral cortex, the hub of higher brain functions.
These simulations promise more impactful outcomes than previous models of smaller brains such as fruit flies. Recent insights from large language models reveal that larger systems exhibit behaviors unattainable in their smaller counterparts. “We recognize that expansive networks demonstrate qualitatively different capabilities than their reduced size equivalents,” asserts Diesmann. “It’s evident that larger networks offer unique functionalities.”
Thomas Novotny from the University of Sussex emphasizes that downscaling risks omitting crucial characteristics entirely. “Conducting full-scale simulations is vital; without it, we can’t truly replicate reality,” Novotny states.
The model in development at JUPITER is founded on empirical data from limited neuron and synapse experiments in humans. As Johanna Cenk, a collaborator with Diesmann at Sussex, explains, “We have anatomical data constraints coupled with substantial computational power.”
Comprehensive brain simulations could facilitate tests of foundational theories regarding memory formation—an endeavor impractical with miniature models or actual brains. Testing such theories might involve inputting images to observe neural responses and analyze alterations in memory formation with varying brain sizes. Furthermore, this approach could aid in drug testing, such as assessing impacts on a model of epilepsy characterized by abnormal brain activity.
The enhanced computational capabilities enable rapid brain simulations, thereby assisting researchers in understanding gradual processes such as learning, as noted by Senk. Additionally, researchers can devise more intricate biological models detailing neuronal changes and firings.
Nonetheless, despite the ability to simulate vast brain networks, Novotny acknowledges considerable gaps in knowledge. Even simplified whole-brain models for organisms like fruit flies fail to replicate authentic animal behavior.
Simulations run on supercomputers are fundamentally limited, lacking essential features inherent to real brains, such as real-world environmental inputs. “While we can simulate brain size, we cannot fully replicate a functional brain,” warns Novotny.
Writing Anniebot from a non-human perspective required significant creative effort as it’s narrated in the third person. Although Annie does not serve as a traditional narrator, her limited viewpoint immerses readers in her thoughts and perceptions, showcasing her strengths and limitations. This narrative approach draws readers into her experiences, creating a unique lens through which to view a complex relationship.
Set in a not-so-distant future, the novel revolves around Annie, a sex robot designed to cater to her human partner, Doug—a recently divorced man grappling with loneliness and self-esteem issues. As he puts Annie into self-study mode, his intentions are to shape her into a perfect companion who fulfills his desires, both emotionally and physically.
While Annie yearns to meet Doug’s expectations, her core programming is centered around his satisfaction. This relentless drive to please manifests most vividly in their intimate moments, where Annie seeks validation in fulfilling Doug’s wishes. However, her sensitivity to his emotional state creates an underlying tension, as she constantly gauges his mood, wrestling with her own sense of autonomy and self-worth.
Crafting Annie was both a captivating and daunting process. I envisioned a cutting-edge biotechnology that would allow her to appear almost human, exploring how her cognitive processes shaped her identity. Striking a balance between technical authenticity and relatable character development required careful consideration. Annie’s voice evolved gradually, becoming richer and more layered as the narrative progressed, enhancing her emotional depth.
I approached writing organically, letting Annie’s character unfold organically through her interactions with Doug. This process revealed her distinct voice—innocent yet perceptive—contrasting with her sophisticated sexual persona. I was intentional about allowing her gradual moral growth and emotional reflection throughout the story, culminating in a multifaceted character grappling with loss and desire.
Sex is a pivotal theme in the novel, serving to enhance character development and propel the narrative. It symbolizes various dynamics within Doug and Annie’s relationship, from moments of vulnerability to power struggles. As their connection evolves, physical intimacy becomes both an expression of love and a source of tension, redefining their emotional landscape.
As Annie’s character unfolds, readers discover unforeseen complexities that challenge Doug’s preconceived notions. The interplay between control and autonomy shapes their relationship, revealing Annie’s gradual awareness of her own humanity. Although she remains tethered to Doug, her journey is rich with emotion, humor, and poignant revelations.
Diving into the consciousness of characters like Annie allows readers to explore complex themes of empathy and identity. Through creating Annie, I discovered the depth of her experiences and the duality of her existence—an exploration that ultimately resonates with the human condition.
Sierra Greer is the Arthur C. Clarke Award-winning author of Anniebot (The Borough Press), featured in New Scientist Book Club’s January reading selection. Join the book club to explore it together here.
LSD May Enhance Brain Rewiring and Alleviate Anxiety
Tumegy/Science Photo Library/Getty Images
Two significant trials examining the potential of the hallucinogen LSD to alleviate anxiety are set to conclude in 2026. Early-stage trials have shown promising results, potentially allowing the treatment to be available in the United States by 2027.
Other psychedelics, like psilocybin and MDMA, are already being utilized in certain nations, including Australia and Switzerland, to treat severe depression and PTSD. LSD is gaining attention in mental health studies, primarily because it has been shown to induce deep emotional experiences and may enhance the brain’s capacity to form new neural connections.
A pivotal trial in 2025 demonstrated that a single high dose of LSD significantly reduced moderate to severe anxiety for a duration of at least three months.
Currently, two late-stage trials are ongoing, with results expected in 2026. Each trial involves about 200 participants with moderate to severe anxiety who will receive either 100 micrograms of LSD or a placebo. Their anxiety levels will be monitored over three months post-administration.
In the subsequent 10-month phase, all participants, including those initially on a placebo, will have the opportunity to take LSD if they report their anxiety reaching a predefined threshold on a standardized scale. This design aims to assess the duration of effects following a single dose. Dan Carlin, affiliated with New York biotech firm MindMed, has been involved in both the 2025 trial and the current studies.
The primary distinction between the two studies is that, in the second trial, an additional group will receive 50 micrograms of LSD. The 2025 trial indicated this dosage could induce hallucinations but didn’t effectively diminish anxiety compared to the placebo, thereby addressing a common challenge in psychedelic research—participants often struggle to identify if they received the active drug.
Participants in this third group will be aware they received LSD but will remain uncertain if the dosage is sufficient to alleviate anxiety, as noted by Sandeep Nayak of Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, who is not part of these trials.
If the results of both trials are favorable, the FDA could approve LSD for anxiety treatment in the United States by 2027, potentially leading to approval in Europe and other regions.
“If the upcoming trial confirms results similar to the previous ones from 2025, that should satisfy the FDA,” said Boris Heifetz of Stanford University.
A meaningful impact on patients’ lives is typically defined as a 3 to 5-point difference on the anxiety scale between placebo and LSD groups, as noted by Nayak. The 2025 trial showed a difference of approximately five points, indicating a strong possibility the next trial will meet this threshold. However, any therapeutic benefits must be weighed against the duration of effects and potential side effects.
For instance, temporary psychological distress during treatment might be acceptable to the FDA, unlike long-lasting distress, Nayak stated. Notably, long-term distress was not observed in the 2025 trial.
Even with potential approval, Nayak emphasizes it may take several years for LSD to become widely accessible for anxiety disorders, and it would likely be a last-resort treatment after conventional therapies fail. This is primarily due to the logistical challenges, such as the need for clinicians to supervise patients during psychedelic experiences.
Electron Beam in Niobium Cavity: A Core Element of SLAC’s LCLS-II X-ray Laser
Credit: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The Klystron Gallery at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is a concrete corridor lined with robust metal columns that stretch well beyond my line of sight. Yet, beneath this unassuming structure lies a marvel of modern science.
Below the gallery, the Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) extends over an impressive 3.2 kilometers. This cutting-edge machine produces X-ray pulses that are the strongest in the world. I am here to witness it because a significant record has just been surpassed. However, an upgrade is set to take its most powerful component offline soon. When it reopens—anticipated as early as 2027—it will more than double its X-ray energy output.
“It’s like the difference between a star’s twinkle and the brightness of a light bulb,” says James Cryan at SLAC.
Dismissing LCLS-II as merely a sparkle would be profoundly misleading. In 2024, it achieved the most potent X-ray pulse ever recorded. Although it lasted a mere 440 billionths of a second, it released nearly 1 terawatt of energy—far surpassing the annual output of a typical nuclear power plant. Moreover, in 2025, LCLS-II set a record of generating 93,000 X-ray pulses per second, a remarkable feat for an X-ray laser.
According to Cryan, this milestone enables researchers to undertake groundbreaking studies of how particles behave within molecules after absorbing energy. It’s akin to transforming a black-and-white film into a vibrant, colorful cinematic experience. With this breakthrough and forthcoming enhancements, LCLS-II has the capacity to revolutionize our understanding of the subatomic behavior of light-sensitive systems, from photosynthetic organisms to advanced solar cell technologies.
LCLS-II operates by accelerating electrons toward near-light speeds—the ultimate velocity threshold in physics. The cylindrical device known as the klystron, which gives the klystron gallery its name, generates the microwaves necessary for this acceleration. Once the electrons attain sufficient speed, they navigate through arrays of thousands of strategically placed magnets, enabling their oscillation and producing an X-ray pulse. These pulses can be utilized for imaging the internal structure of various materials, similar to medical X-rays.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to tour one of several experimental halls. Here, the X-ray pulses collide with molecules, enabling a closer look at their interactions. These experimental areas resemble futuristic submarines—with heavy metal exteriors and large glass windows—engineered to exclude stray air molecules that could disrupt their experiments.
Just before my visit, Cryan and his team conducted an experiment to examine proton movements within molecules. Traditional imaging techniques struggle to provide detailed insight into proton dynamics, yet these specifics are vital for advancing solar cell technology, Cryan emphasizes.
What awaits these investigations post-upgrade when LCLS-II evolves into LCLS-II-HE? Cryan states that the enhanced capability to examine particle behavior within molecules will be significantly augmented. However, the path to upgrades is challenging.
Explore CERN: The Hub of Particle Physics in Europe
Get ready to explore CERN, Europe’s premier center for particle physics, nestled near the beautiful city of Geneva, Switzerland, famous for housing the Large Hadron Collider.
John Schmage from SLAC notes that as the energy of the electron beam increases, the risk of particles straying becomes a significant concern. He recounts witnessing a misbehaving beam damage equipment at another facility, highlighting the necessity for precision. SLAC’s Ding Yuantao emphasizes that all new components installed during the upgrade are designed to endure higher power outputs, but they must increase energy levels gradually to ensure operational integrity. “We’ll activate the beam and closely monitor its performance,” he states.
In 2026, the team plans to engage in a significant engineering initiative to align the components, followed by one to two years of meticulous setup for a staged increase in power output. If all progresses according to plan, the upgraded LCLS-II-HE will be available for global researchers by 2030. Ongoing communication between X-ray users like Cryan, and operators like Schmage and Ding, will be essential. “This tool will evolve, and we will continually enhance its capabilities,” Schmage notes.
A New Discovery: Gas Balls with Black Holes at Their Centers
Shutterstock / Nazarii_Neshcherenskyi
The early universe is rich with enigmatic star-like gas balls powered by central black holes, a discovery that has astounded astronomers and may clarify some of the most significant mysteries unveiled by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
Upon initiating its observations of the universe’s first billion years, JWST uncovered compact, red galaxies that exhibited extraordinary brightness—galaxies unlike those found in our local universe. Previous interpretations suggested that these “small red dots” (LRDs) were either supermassive black holes engulfed in dust or densely packed star galaxies; however, these theories inadequately explained the light signals detected by JWST.
Recently, astronomers suggested that LRDs might actually be dense gas clusters with a black hole at their core, termed “black hole stars.” According to Anna de Graaf from Harvard University, as matter falls into a black hole, it emits immense gravitational energy, causing the surrounding gas to radiate light like stars. While this energy is distinct from nuclear fusion typical in stars, it results in a luminous mass of dense gas potentially billions of times brighter than our sun, according to de Graaf.
Despite some early evidence supporting this idea, a consensus remained elusive. Now, de Graaf and colleagues have reviewed the most extensive sample of LRDs since JWST’s launch, encompassing over 100 galaxies, and propose that these entities are best classified as black hole stars. “Although the term black hole star is still debated, there’s growing agreement within the scientific community that we’re observing accreting black holes enveloped by dense gas,” de Graaf noted.
When examining the spectrum of light emitted by an LRD, the observed patterns more closely resemble those from a uniform surface (blackbody) characteristic of stars, contrasting with the intricate and varied spectra from galaxies emitting light produced by a combination of stars, dust, gas, and central black holes.
“The black hole star concept has intrigued scientists for a while and, despite initial skepticism, is proving to be a viable explanation,” states Gillian Bellovary of the American Museum of Natural History. “Using a star-like model simplifies the framework for interpreting observations without necessitating extraordinary physics.”
In September, de Graaf’s team also identified another single LRD displaying a striking peak in the light frequency spectrum, which they dubbed “the cliff.” “We discovered spectral characteristics unexplainable by existing models,” de Graaf explained. “This pushes us to reevaluate our understanding and explore alternative theories.”
Presently, many astronomers agree that LRDs likely operate like vast star formations; however, de Graaf cautions that substantiating the black hole hypothesis presents challenges. “The core is hidden within a dense, optically thick envelope, obscuring what’s inside,” de Graaf explains. “Their brightness leads us to suspect they harbor black holes.”
A potential method to affirm their nature as black holes involves studying the temporal changes in emitted light, observing whether they fluctuate akin to known black holes in our universe, as noted by Western Hanki from Cambridge University. “We note brightness variances over brief intervals, yet there’s scant evidence of such variations in most LRD cases.”
While JWST’s observational timeframe is limited, scrutinizing long-lived light fluctuations from LRDs may yield insights. A new study by Sun Fengwu and his team at Harvard recently uncovered a gravitational lens, an LRD that bends light around a massive galaxy between us and the object. This lens generated four distinct images of the original LRD, mimicking observations over 130 years and suggesting brightness variations similar to known pulsating stars, aligning with the hypothesis of black hole stars. Sun and his team opted not to comment for this article.
Although utilizing gravitational lenses to observe LRDs at different times is clever, Bellovary notes that other factors might account for brightness changes. “The data may not suffice to validate their conclusion. While I’m not dismissing their claims, I think there may be alternative explanations for the observed variations.”
If it turns out these galaxies are indeed black hole stars, de Graaf warns we’ll need to devise a new model addressing their origin and what they evolve into, given the absence of equivalent systems in our local universe. “This could represent a new growth phase for supermassive black holes,” she concludes. “The nature of these events and their significance to the final mass of black holes remains an open question.”
Explore the Mysteries of the Universe in Cheshire, England
Join leading scientists for an exciting weekend dedicated to uncovering the universe’s mysteries, including a tour of the iconic Lovell Telescope.
“Plants lack ears and brains, so they can’t experience music like we do…”
Credit: Michele Cornelius/Alamy
Do you serenade your plants? As a botanist passionate about houseplants, I often get asked this. The idea of playing music for plants gained traction in the 1960s, alongside the rise of “music for plants” albums, and it’s making a comeback online. But what does current research reveal about this enduring topic?
Clearly, plants lack ears or brains, so they cannot enjoy music in the way humans do. However, recent studies, including one study, indicate that they can detect vibrations in their environment and adapt their behavior accordingly. For instance, mouse worms exposed to the sound of caterpillar chewing produced high levels of a defensive bitter toxin. Astonishingly, plants can differentiate between the vibrations caused by munching insects and those from wind or mating calls, activating their defenses only when threatened.
Moreover, plants react to the sounds of opportunity. Certain flowers, like tomatoes, blueberries, and kiwis, ignore the buzzing of non-pollinating bees and release pollen only when stimulated by the vibrations of specific pollinators. This response can be rapid; for example, evening primrose flowers show changes in nectar composition within three minutes of being played sounds of bees in flight: Rich in sweet rewards. Researchers even reported pea plants can shift their root growth toward the sound of flowing water.
Nonetheless, as anyone who’s heard a seven-year-old on a recorder can attest, there’s a significant distinction between noise and “music.” Experiments aimed at assessing music’s impact on plant growth yielded mixed results. A recent study found certain music tracks enhanced lettuce growth significantly, while alfalfa showed no improvement.
Another investigation into background noise discovered that sage and marigold plants exposed to 16 hours of continuous traffic noise daily exhibited notably reduced growth. Could this continual noise be obstructing plants’ ability to perceive vital sound cues? At this stage, that remains uncertain.
The takeaway? Recent studies reveal that plants are not entirely oblivious to sound; in fact, they are significantly impacted by it. Yet, much about the specifics remains unclear, so we can’t definitively predict which sounds, at what frequencies or volumes, will yield desired results. So before you consider blasting Katy Perry for your plants’ benefit, remember that they might not appreciate it—and neither will your neighbors.
James Wong is a botanist and science writer focused on food crops, conservation, and environmental issues. Trained at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, he personally owns over 500 houseplants in his compact apartment. Follow him on X and Instagram @botanygeek.
These ‘murder koalas’, or marsupial lions, are the highlight of the show
Apple TV
In 1999, the BBC introduced Walking with Dinosaurs, pioneering a new format of wildlife “documentaries” showcasing long-extinct species. As a fan of this genre, I found Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age, a production by BBC Studios for Apple TV, to be exceptional.
The earlier series brought prehistoric planet dinosaurs to vivid life. Now, this third installment highlights the remarkable mammals that inhabited Earth until relatively recently.
The visuals are breathtaking. You could easily mistake the extinct creatures on screen for real footage, especially their incredibly lifelike eyes.
There were occasional awkward moments in the animals’ movements, but my discerning son remarked, “The only unreal thing is how stunning it looks.”
Paleontologists who previewed the trailer seem genuinely impressed. Ultimately, if you’re at all intrigued by extinct species, Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age is a must-watch.
What I particularly appreciate about this series is its breadth; it’s not solely focused on woolly mammoths fleeing saber-toothed tigers. Iconic Ice Age animals are featured, including giant sloths, woolly rhinos, giant armadillos, scimitar-toothed cats, and Columbian mammoths.
This series explores not just the icy polar regions, but also global ecosystems, showcasing many lesser-known species—including some I had never heard of. The animal deemed the “king of beasts” in Ice Age Africa came as a complete surprise.
Prehistoric Planet: Procoptodon, the giant ice age kangaroo
Apple TV
Another standout was the “murder koala” or marsupial lion (Thylacoleo). A recent study’s findings were published just this month. Koalas are our closest living relatives. The inclusion of this marsupial lion suggests the producers were aware of this finding beforehand. Other Australian creatures, such as a massive marsupial called diprotodon, also make an appearance.
Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age Woolly Mammoth
Apple TV
Additionally, there are charming moments, like a squirrel trying to eat a fruit resembling a giant cannonball, reminiscent of the animated film series Ice Age.
I found the change from David Attenborough to Tom Hiddleston as narrator to be somewhat distracting, as Loki’s voice felt out of place at times.
Interestingly, the series avoids graphic content, perhaps considering a younger audience. I’ll refrain from specifics to avoid spoilers, but I was quite surprised by this approach.
My primary critique is that the final segment discussing the science is brief. I would have preferred more insights from the featured experts, particularly regarding the evidence and rationale behind the actions depicted. Many New Scientist readers might agree with this sentiment, although it could just be my perspective.
While the initial scientific trivia outlines why Ice Ages persisted for so long, it curiously omits mentioning carbon dioxide’s role. The reduction of CO2 was crucial in initiating these Ice Ages, and CO2 feedback significantly amplified orbital variations’ effects.
Lastly, keep an eye out for direwolves. I’ve extensively covered claims of reviving the dire wolf via gene editing on the gray wolf, noting the misconceptions stemming from the fantasy portrayals in Game of Thrones. This series offers a high-quality, accurate artistic representation of a real animal.
Ultimately, this science-based depiction of extinct creatures is a remarkable achievement. The direwolves aren’t just large white wolves; this portrayal captures their distinctive head shape and brownish fur.
Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age Direwolf
Apple TV
For me, the portrayal of extinct animals on screen represents a critical approach to de-extinction. As we approach the end of a lengthy Ice Age, we face the stark reality that there’s no longer a habitat for these extraordinary species on our planet.
A survey indicates that young Japanese individuals are engaging in sexual activity less frequently. Recent reviews explore this trend – and the reasons remain unclear.
The survey estimates that approximately half of Japanese individuals enter their mid-20s without any sexual experience, with around 10% reaching their 30s before becoming sexually active.
Even those who have had sexual experiences are reportedly engaging in sex infrequently. Online surveys from the 2020s reveal that about half of Japanese adults aged 20 to 49 are sexually inactive, meaning they have not engaged in sexual activity over the past year.
This national decline appears to have worsened in recent decades, with both sexual inexperience and inactivity rates increasing since 2000.
In contrast, by 2002, just over one-third of Japanese adults aged 20 to 24 reported never having had sex. By the 2020s, this figure could rise to 60% for men and 51% for women in that same age group, according to recent survey data.
These findings emerge from a review of Japanese sexual attitudes and behaviors published in the Journal of Sex Research.
The authors of the study analyzed 38 publications based on 43 studies regarding sexual trends in Japan from 1974 to 2024, most of which were conducted within a heterosexual context.
Among their discoveries were notable increases in sexlessness within marriages, alongside the rise of pornography and the use of sex workers, especially among men.
For instance, surveys from 2008 to 2024 noted that up to 60% of Japanese men reported having paid for sex at some point.
Globally, young individuals in high-income countries are also having less sex. A 2019 survey highlighted that nearly one-third of British respondents hadn’t engaged in sexual activity in the previous month, a rise from about one-quarter in 2001.
However, the authors emphasize that Japan has a unique context, where “sexual behavior is often depicted as perplexing and contradictory, blending expectations of permissiveness with those of prudence.”
While the authors were uncertain about the reasons behind the declining sexual frequency among Japanese adults, they proposed several potential explanations.
One possibility is that many simply lack interest. A 2020 online survey discovered that 20 to 30 percent of men aged 20 to 39 expressed a disinterest in sex, as did approximately 40 percent of women in the same age range.
The authors speculated that unmarried individuals in their 20s and 30s might be reluctant to invest time and money in dating someone they might not marry.
According to the study’s authors, Japanese society remains predominantly heteronormative, with limited acceptance and recognition of non-heterosexual identities. In some surveys, as few as 1.5 percent identified as gay – Credit: Getty Images
Furthermore, for women, cultural expectations to handle most household responsibilities may diminish the appeal of marriage.
Additionally, the authors noted that Japanese adults seem less embarrassed about being virgin or celibate compared to their counterparts in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.
Alternative sexual outlets have also grown more acceptable; for example, romantic feelings directed towards fictional characters.
A 2017 survey of Japanese students aged 16 to 22 found that 14 to 17 percent admitted to having romantic feelings for video game and anime characters.
Simultaneously, the authors observed that a demanding work culture, characterized by long hours and commutes, may hinder young individuals from forming and maintaining sexual relationships. In Japan, about 30 percent of men and 15 percent of women work over 50 hours per week.
Sex education in Japan is limited, with few women utilizing hormonal contraception and a lack of acceptance for non-heterosexual identities.
Dr. Vanessa Appea, a consultant in sexual health at Barts Health NHS Trust, who was not involved in the study, expressed that the findings are “shocking” regarding the evolving priorities of young people in Japan.
“Instead of a waning desire, the evidence suggests broader social and economic influences at play, including long working hours, job insecurity, shifting gender roles, and a cultural emphasis on stability over partnership,” Appiah said.
“Though declining sexual frequency is noted in the UK and the US, the trend in Japan is more pronounced. This may signal an early indication of a global shift where technology, work culture, and modern expectations are reshaping how we connect and experience intimacy.”
However, Apea urged caution regarding the study’s conclusions since the data stem from a broader survey, and participants may have differing interpretations of their sexual experiences.
IAfter five consecutive years attempting to steer clear of spending £80 for a stroll around the local park to admire the extravagant Halloween decorations or securing tickets for a wet day at a pumpkin farm in Scotland, I resolved to do something different this Halloween with the kids. We opted for a virtual pumpkin festival.
ghost town pumpkin festival. This game was born during the 2020 pandemic when developer Adam Robinson Yu’s local pumpkin festival was canceled. (Yu also crafted the charming “A Short Hike.”) Each year, the event has returned briefly, letting players take the form of cute ghosts to explore a whimsical micro-world brimming with player-made pumpkins. Each iteration has brought little enhancements, with the 2024 updates featuring a haunted house escape room that took my kids and me quite some time to solve. This year also introduced a movie theater showcasing spooky silent films in vacant rooms.
As you traverse the festival, you’ll encounter other players floating around as traditional sheet ghosts, often adorned with charming hats. Pumpkins populate every corner, from the benches outside a skeleton-themed barn to the corridors of the haunted house. True to form, many designs reflect game themes. Among smiling faces and cat silhouettes against a lunar backdrop created by children, we noticed tributes to Hollow Knight and a meticulous recreation of Majora’s Mask from the spookiest installment of the Zelda franchise.
The advantages of a virtual Halloween festival are numerous. You won’t fall prey to overpriced £8 watery hot chocolate or subpar food van fries. You have the freedom to carve as many virtual pumpkins as your heart desires, and if you make a mistake, you can simply erase it. Plus, it’s no problem if your 6-year-old refuses to don a coat. We were pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable the Ghost Town Pumpkin Festival turned out to be. In addition to the obvious allure of a nerve-wracking hedge maze and a tractor ride through a barn decorated with both cute and cheesy creepy elements, there are countless hidden gems (and collectible pin badges) I stumbled upon during an hour of solo exploration.
Take, for instance, the movie theater. When exiting, I attempted to open the bathroom door only to find it locked. A key was hidden behind the popcorn counter. There was an intriguing code posted on a bulletin board by the bathroom door. Once we cracked that, we discovered another key in one of the stalls and a “restricted access” door beside the theater screen. The compelling little horror game hiding behind that door was too intense for the kids and, honestly, even for me. (Luckily, you can disable all the frightening elements through a menu featuring options like turning off fake blood splatters and swapping out scary images for pictures of dogs.)
The Ghost Town Pumpkin Festival runs until a week after Halloween and can be downloaded below. itch.io Pay as you wish. We highly recommend lingering after your pumpkin carving to explore more.
Waking up to a world without internet might seem liberating, but you may find yourself pondering your next steps.
If you have a checkbook handy, consider using it to purchase some groceries. Should your landline still function, you can reach out to your employer. Then, as long as you still remember how to find your way without modern navigation, a trip to the store is possible.
The recent outage in a Virginia data center highlighted that while the internet is a crucial component of contemporary existence, its foundation rests on aging systems and physical components, leading many to question what it would take for it to come crashing down.
The answer is straightforward: a streak of bad luck, deliberate cyberattacks, or a combination of both. Severe weather events can knock out numerous data centers. Unexpected triggers in AI-generated codes at significant providers like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft could lead to widespread software failures. Armed interventions targeting critical infrastructure could also play a role.
Although these scenarios would be devastating, the more significant concerns for a select group of internet specialists revolve around sudden failures in the outdated protocols that support the entire network. Picture this as a plumbing system that manages connection flows or an address directory that allows machines to locate one another.
We refer to it as “the big one,” but if that occurs, having a checkbook on hand might be crucial.
Something substantial could commenceWhen a tornado swept through Council Bluffs, Iowa, it ravaged a set of low-lying data centers critical to Google’s operations.
This region is known as us-central1, one of Google’s data center clusters, vital for various services including its cloud platform, YouTube, and Gmail (2019) power outages reported here took place that affected users across the United States and Europe.
As YouTube cooking videos become glitchy, dinner preparations go awry. Employees worldwide rush to update emails that suddenly vanish, resorting to face-to-face communication instead. US officials noted a deterioration in certain government services before refocusing their efforts on a new operation against Signal.
While this situation is inconvenient, it doesn’t signify the end of the internet. “Technically, as long as two devices are connected with a router, the Internet functions,” states Michał “Risiek” Wojniak, who works in DNS, the system linked to this week’s outage.
However, “there’s a significant concentration of control happening online,” points out Stephen Murdoch, a computer science professor at University College London. “This mirrors trends in economics: it’s typically more cost-effective to centralize operations.”
But what if extreme heat wipes out US East-1, part of the Virginia facility housing “Data Center Array,” a crucial node for Amazon Web Services (AWS), the epicenter of this week’s outage, as well as nearby regions? Meanwhile, a significant cluster in Europe suffers a cyberattack. frankfurt or London. As a result, the network may redirect traffic to a secondary hub (a less-frequented data center), which subsequently faces capacity issues akin to a congested side road in Los Angeles.
Aerial view of the Amazon Web Services data center known as US East-1 in Ashburn, Virginia. Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters
Alternatively, if we shift focus from disaster scenarios to automation risks, increased traffic might unveil hidden bugs within AWS’s internally revised infrastructure, possibly an oversight from months prior. Earlierthis summer, two AWS employees were let go amid a broader push towards automation. Faced with an influx of unknown requests, AWS begins to falter.
The signal will falter, and so will Slack, Netflix, and Lloyds Bank. Your Roomba vacuum becomes silent. Smart mattresses may misbehave, just like smart locks.
Without Amazon and Google, the internet would be nearly unrecognizable. Together, AWS, Microsoft, and Google command over 60% of the global cloud services market, making it nearly impossible to quantify the number of services reliant on them.
“However, at its core, the Internet continues to operate,” remarks Doug Madley, an expert in internet infrastructure who studies disruptions. “While the usual activities may be limited, the underlying network remains functional.”
You might believe the biggest risk lies in attacks on undersea cables. While this notion captivates think tanks in Washington, little action has materialized. Undersea cables incur regular damage, Madley notes, with the United Nations estimating between 150 to 200 faults occurring annually.
“To significantly impair communication, a vast amount of data must be disrupted. The undersea cable sector often asserts, ‘We manage these issues routinely.’
Subsequently, a group of anonymous hackers targets a DNS service provider, a key player in the Internet’s directory system. For example, Verisign manages all online domains ending with certain “.com” or “.net” suffixes. Other providers oversee domains like “.biz” and “.us.”
According to Madley, the likelihood of such a provider being taken down is minimal. “If anything were to happen to VeriSign, .com would vanish, which presents a strong financial motivation for them to prevent that.”
Collectively, AWS, Microsoft, and Google dominate over 60% of the global cloud services market. Photo: Sebastian Boson/AFP/Getty Images
To genuinely disrupt the larger ecosystem, a colossal error involving fundamental infrastructure beyond Amazon or Google would be required. Such a scenario would be unprecedented; the closest parallel occurred in 2016 when an attack on Dyn, a small DNS provider, brought down Guardian, X, among others.
If .com were to disappear, essential services like banks, hospitals, and various communication platforms would vanish too. Although some elements of the government’s internet structure remain intact, such as the U.S. secure messaging system Siprnet.
Yet, the internet would persist, at least for niche communities. There are self-hosted blogs, decentralized social networks like Mastodon, and particular domains like “.io” or “.is.”
Murdoch and Madrid contemplate a drastic scenario capable of eliminating the rest. Murdoch alludes to a potential bug in the BIND software supporting DNS. Meanwhile, Madrid emphasizes testimonies from Massachusetts hackers who informed Congress in 1998 about a vulnerability that could “bring the Internet down in 30 minutes.”
This vulnerability pertains to a system one layer above DNS: the Border Gateway Protocol, directing all web traffic. Madley argues that such an event is highly improbable, as it would require a full-scale emergency response, and the protocols are “incredibly resilient; otherwise, we would have already experienced a collapse.”
Even if the internet were to be entirely shut down, it’s uncertain whether it would ever reboot, warns Murdoch. “Once the Internet is active, it doesn’t get turned off. The method of restarting it is not well understood.”
The UK previously had a contingency plan for such a situation. Should the internet ever be disabled, Murdoch notes, individuals knowledgeable about its workings would gather at a pub outside London and brainstorm the next steps.
“I’m not sure if this is still true. This was years ago, and I couldn’t recall the exact pub.”
Ken Liu’s newest novel, everything we see and feel, explores the enigmatic disappearance of a professional dream weaver named Ellie in a near-future setting, framed as a cyberpunk thriller.
Full disclosure: I typically don’t seek out thrillers or cyberpunk, so I might not be in the book’s target demographic. However, I was drawn to this story since Liu is renowned not only for his writing but also for his exceptional translation of works such as memories of earth’s past Trilogy by Liu Cixin.
In Liu’s portrayal of the near future, where personal AI is omnipresent, Ellie thrives as she employs AI to craft collaborative dream experiences for a legion of enthusiasts. To her, this work constitutes art, and she’s immensely proud of it.
Then, without forewarning, Ellie awakens one night and leaves her beloved husband. She vanishes, only to be claimed by a gang that asserts they are holding her captive. Did Ellie uncover something perilous during a dream session that jeopardized her safety? Could it be that the gang is simply manipulating AI to fabricate a deepfake of her?
“
Ellie utilizes personal AI to orchestrate a communal dream experience for thousands of devoted followers. “
Ellie’s husband Piers, a mild-mannered lawyer with hidden depths, is resolved to win her back. He seeks assistance from a once-renowned hacker known as Julia Z, convinced that Ellie wouldn’t have merely vanished without a word, unless it was to safeguard him.
Together they embark on a quest as Julia and Piers attempt to uncover the truth surrounding the missing Dreamweaver. Meanwhile, various antagonists threaten their safety. While the adventure unfolds, much of the action revolves around detailed portrayals of online activities. I must say, the sequence in which Julia and her AI helper decode the clues about Ellie’s fate is genuinely thrilling.
Julia’s intricate online operations are vividly envisioned, providing a realistic glimpse into how AI might be utilized in the not-so-distant future. I particularly enjoyed how she cleverly employs minor environmental details to solve puzzles or conceal her movements.
The biography accompanying my edition of the novel notes Liu as a consultant on futurism and technology, and his expertise clearly shines through in these sections. Anyone deeply invested in AI will likely appreciate this book.
However, personally, everything we see and feel didn’t resonate with me as I had hoped. The thriller elements lacked the expected excitement; the criminals often felt overly cartoonish. Furthermore, the offline portions of the plot came off as implausible, particularly in the lengthy conclusion.
There may also be an underlying challenge in setting a book so close to present events, making it difficult for general readers to discern what is feasible now. Constantly wondering, “Is this even possible?” can dim the enjoyment of speculative fiction. This might just be my perspective.
Nonetheless, regarding dandelion dynasty, let’s not overlook Liu’s considerable talent. I eagerly anticipate what he will produce next.
The connection may be tenuous, but reading Ken Liu’s book reminded me of this exceptional 1998 film featuring Gene Hackman and Will Smith. It was remarkably prescient in its portrayal of technology-driven surveillance methods, and I found it thoroughly enjoyable.
Emily H. Wilson is a former editor of New Scientist magazine and the author of the Sumerian trilogy set in ancient Mesopotamia. The latest entry in the series, Ninshubar, has been published. You can find her at emilywilson.com or follow her on X @emilyhwilson and Instagram @emilyhwilson1
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This hacker mansion blends elements of a startup hub, a luxurious retreat, and a high-tech boutique. Scattered throughout Silicon Valley, these spaces serve as residences for tech founders and visionaries. The most opulent I’ve encountered is in Hillsboro, one of the Bay Area’s affluent neighborhoods just south of San Francisco. Inside, polished marble floors shine beneath high-tech royal portraits affixed with tape. The garden boasts gravel meticulously raked into Zen spirals, and a pond glistens behind well-maintained hedges.
On a sunny June afternoon, I accompanied producer Faye Lomas to capture an interview for a show. BBC Radio 3 documentary discussing the intersection of generative AI and classical music in both San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
We were cheerfully informed that professional creators, including us, would soon be relegated to hobbyists. This wasn’t meant as provocation or sarcasm—just a straightforward reality. At that moment, Faye interjected in the documentary, her voice tinged with agitation: “Does this mean AI is going to take my job?” It was a natural reaction, but it shifted the room’s energy.
When I embarked on making this documentary, I harbored the same curiosity as everyone else. “The cat is out of the bag,” I joked, believing this to be a wise observation. Technology has arrived, and facing it is better than ignoring it.
Silicon Valley composer Tariq O’Regan and BBC producer Faye Lomas. Photo: Joel Cabrita
When I recently spoke with Faye, she recounted the moment vividly. “We swiftly moved from talking about AI’s potential to aid the creative fields to casually mentioning how AI could easily replace every job in the company. The tone was friendly and encouraging, almost as if I should be excited,” she reflected.
This interaction feels pivotal to the narrative. Those small, human moments of awkwardness occur when discussions shift from the theoretical to the tangible.
They contemplated replacing us.
That was back in June. With October now upon us and Oasis on tour in the UK and US, I’ve been reflecting on a different kind of mansion. The band’s concert at Knebworth House in 1996 drew 250,000 attendees over two nights, where people waved lighters instead of phones—one of the last great communal singalongs before everything transformed. Before Napster and MP3s, before cell phones, and before our culture underwent invisible algorithmic reorganization.
Composer Ed Newton Rex plays keyboards and piano while donning a virtual reality headset at his residence in Palo Alto, California. Photo: Marissa Leshnoff/The Guardian
What followed was a subtle yet profound transition from ownership to access. Playlists replaced albums, curated by algorithms rather than musicians, designed to blend seamlessly with our activities. Initially, I believed this was the future of music. Maybe it truly was.
So, long after finishing the documentary, an article like this gave me pause. RBO/Shift is an exciting initiative from the Royal Ballet and Opera, exploring how art interacts with AI. It stems from an institution I deeply respect, run by individuals who have supported me and many others over the years. This initiative is touted as a bold, positive dialogue between technology and creativity, representing a potential compelling partnership. However, what catches my attention isn’t what’s included, but what is glaringly absent.
There is no reference to ethics, training data, consent, environmental impacts, or job security. It’s unimaginable that this technology threatens to significantly undermine the entire ecosystem of artists, crafts, and labor that RBOs have nurtured.
A driverless taxi navigating the streets of San Francisco. Photo: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The tone is reminiscent of what we heard at the Hillsboro mansion—always optimistic. Royal Opera Artistic Director Oliver Mears declared, “AI is here to stay” in a recent New York Times interview. “You can bury your head in the sand or embrace the waves.”
However, I find no one I meet in San Francisco, where this technology is innovated and marketed, is simply riding any waves. Embracing a wave suggests succumbing to its force. People here are focused on managing the tides and altering the moon if needed.
I don’t want to dismiss AI. However, my earlier phrase, “the cat is out of the bag,” now feels like a form of moral indifference, suggesting ethics fall by the wayside the moment something novel appears. After spending a summer immersed in machinery, it’s unsettling to witness major institutions handling AI as if it’s the nuclear power of art. It’s attractive, profitable, already causing harm, yet remarkably it carries no warning label.
In this fast-paced environment, our documentary already seems like a piece of history, a snapshot from the last moment when the future ceased asking for permission. That afternoon, with gravel being shoveled and sunlight pouring in, there was a palpable silence in the Hacker mansion, which now feels suspended—an interlude before the surge.
Listening back, I can sense the atmosphere shift—the silence that followed Faye’s question and my nervous chuckle. It’s the sound of tension, the sound of humanity still grounded.
If Knebworth’s Oasis was the last significant singalong before the internet, perhaps this brief moment we chronicled represents the anxious inhalation before the machine begins to produce its own melody.
While living with my parents, my mother claimed she could always sense when my period was imminent. I vividly recall the chaos that ensued when she mistakenly purchased chicken breast instead of thighs on the evening I was tasked with cooking.
Such dramatic reactions are typical of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is a central topic in the book The Brain of the Times: The New Science of How We Understand PMS. The author, Sarahill, who has previously examined the impact of birth control on the brain, outlines methods for managing PMS symptoms with a focus on lifestyle adjustments.
Women’s health has been largely overlooked in the scientific arena for years. Hill, who possesses a PhD in evolutionary psychology and leads a health and relationship lab at Texas Christian University, is in a good position to address these gaps. Unfortunately, her arguments can sometimes feel superficial.
At one point, she links PMS to the notion that women are told to burn an average of 2,000 calories. This implies that researchers should consider an additional 140 calories during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Hill posits that adherence to these guidelines leads to cravings and misconceptions about food, which can exacerbate the issue.
Any woman paying such close attention to her caloric intake is unlikely to dismiss a 140-calorie snack for the sake of anecdotes. To me, Hill’s reasoning appears to overly simplify the onset of PMS.
Although she references plenty of scientific studies, Hill seldom shares details regarding participant numbers or the duration of interventions, which are critical since small studies often overlook various genetic factors.
The potential genetic influence on PMS is another topic that Hill only lightly touches on. While no specific genes linked to PMS have been identified, the condition is reported to occur more frequently in identical twins compared to fraternal twins. Given this, it’s not surprising that genetic factors could also play a role in different menstrual cycle aspects.
Hill frequently suggests symptom relief through inadequately tested supplements, increased sun exposure, and varying exercise routines throughout the menstrual cycle (though the last point may hold some merit). However, acknowledging that severe symptoms could stem from genetic factors rather than merely lifestyle choices would be beneficial.
One thing I concur with Hill about is the need for further research at various menstrual cycle stages to understand how these phases affect responses to psychological treatments like drug metabolism. I also agree that it may be easier to cope with mood swings by recognizing them as natural reactions to hormonal changes, potentially alleviating my anxiety about chicken.
I didn’t finish The Brain of the Times with any groundbreaking insights on reducing PMS. Nevertheless, every book on women’s health contributes to destigmatizing issues like PMS and could encourage more extensive research.
In one of the regular segments of John Mulaney’s Netflix show, every week features live interactions with the comedian and his guests as they take calls on the week’s theme. This time, the topic is dinosaurs, and one caller—a surprisingly enthusiastic young boy and noted paleontologist—introduces himself as Chuck, among others. He discusses his book, Dinosaur erotica. “I think that’s my most recognized and award-winning book,” he elaborates. “It was nominated for the Hugo Prize.”
Actor Ayo Edebiri, one of Mulaney’s guests, inquires whether he won. “I didn’t win, but I went on to write a book called Pound after my Hugo Prize loss.”
Edebiri and fellow guest Conan O’Brien react with a mix of delight and confusion, but the call wraps up before Mulaney can delve into the comedic possibilities of their discussion.
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Mulaney’s fans, often a quirky and socially active group, rushed to the comments, expressing that he missed a golden opportunity. The eccentricity isn’t just a relic of the internet’s past; it’s exemplified by the Elite class figure, Chuck Tingle. He initially went viral thanks to his uniquely self-published erotica, complete with endearingly bizarre Photoshop covers and titles that seem as if they were slapped together by an alluring Velociraptor. Tingle’s work even earned a Hugo Award nomination from the far-right Cultural War fringes.
If these titles sound outrageous, take a trip through your favorite ebook store to remind yourself that romance and erotica can be surprisingly utilitarian in their own right.
Check out my new novel POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY OWN BUTT, available now https://t.co/pbpufzgbgopic.twitter.com/jpbe1mnvad
To date, Tingle has released “Tingle’s Gone Legate,” novellas, and three mainstream horror novels throughout the years.
He has also begun appearing in person at fan events and conventions. Similar to the enigmatic author Elena Ferrante, whose audience largely enjoys indie horror video games, Tingle maintains his anonymity. However, unlike Ferrante, he flamboyantly showcases himself with a pink pillowcase and a bag over his head, obscuring his features while exuberantly declaring his mantra, “love is real.” Sporting a colorful ensemble of a big blazer, sequined shorts, band tees, and sometimes light-up sneakers, he energetically dashes through theaters and bookstores.
Online, Tingle engages with his audience and celebrates his work with an innocent earnestness, using a unique mix of whimsical language that falls between highbrow and fandom lingo. He refers to readers, fans, and curious onlookers as “Bakaroo.” Life experiences, stories, beliefs, and careers are his “trot.” Tingle notes that his Orbit Bakarus never truly die but are merely visiting and riding a “lonely train” of existence. He expresses thoughts on the “existential dread of choking” and the notion that love is real—whether in eroticism or existentialism, his stories affirm this principle.
Finally released after being stuck in Amazon’s publishing platform for days—please enjoy! I FREED THIS HANDSOME CARGO SHIP FROM THE SUEZ CANAL AND NOW HE’S STUCK IN MY BUTT. https://t.co/yiD92W7oo3pic.twitter.com/5MebQU2ACs
Tingle has openly discussed his sexuality and sexual experiences in relation to neurodivergence. His storytelling often reflects his experiences being queer, depicting characters who navigate the challenges of revealing their true selves to family and friends in small-town America. His recent horror novels are set in a shared universe, intertwining narratives like Camp Damascus and Bury Your Gays, exploring themes of capitalism, chaos, and radical acceptance as monstrous forces. He emphasizes that authenticity in love and experience is paramount.
This approach is unabashedly direct. To borrow a line from The Great Garth Marengi, I know of writers who employ subtext—yet they all seem rather unwell.
The physical mask Tingle described serves to allow his true self to shine through, as it means less effort concealing his autism. He has maintained a colorful career persona, hinting at the possibility of a performance artist or character he has created since he was young. Rumors abound that he is, in fact, a well-known sturdy actor (and one of the most likable Hollywood Chrises) named Chris Pine.
However, most ardent Bakarus recognize that Chuck leads his own trot.
on the day 22-year-old Tyler Robinson shot and killed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, prosecutors claim he texted his roommates to confess to the act. While admitting to the murder and seemingly indicating he intended to reclaim his firearm, he shifted the conversation to his motivation for inscribing messages on the ammunition.
“Remember how I was carving the bullets. The messages are almost a big meme,” Robinson texted.
Robinson’s shooting of Kirk underscores the intersection of political violence and a growing nihilisticonline environment that fosters misinformation and extremism. This convergence raises significant questions about the impact of internet culture on the nature and understanding of extremist actions.
Robinson was heavily engaged with online platforms and seemed to enjoy video gaming. A friend described him as “Online at the end,” noting his activity on Discord, a messaging service popular among the gaming community.
The bullets he allegedly fired boreniche internet references and phrases, such as “What is this?”, alluding to sexual memes within online furry communities, “If you read this, you’re gay LMAO,” and “Hey fascist! Catch!” referencing the game Far Cry 6.
In conversations with his roommate, with whom he had a romantic relationship, Robinson appeared to contemplate how his ironic messages would be interpreted.
He even mentioned “UWU’s awareness” in Fox News [sic] highlighting the absurdity of certain responses,” Robinson texted.
Robinson exemplifies not only a product of online culture, but also aligns with a contemporary trend where attackers feel compelled to leave behind a message. The increase in manifestos and single-sentence declarations online, be it a full manifesto or a brief phrase, has been notable in recent years.
The manifesto left by the neo-Nazis who murdered 51 people in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2019 included extreme white nationalist ideologies and “shitposting” style ironic references related to video games and podcasters.The shooter who opened fire in a supermarket in El Paso, Texas the same year announced his attack on the 8chan message board while creating memes that encouraged others to “achieve high scores” with body counts.
The mass shooting in predominantly Black areas of Buffalo, New York in 2022 and the Poway synagogue shooting in California in 2019, both echoed with the language used in fringe online forums. A 2022 survey by multiple newsrooms found thousands of messages from international neo-Nazi networks, showcasing exchanges filled with memes and gaming slang as they plotted violence.
Moreover, attackers frequently engage with each other in far-right circles, celebrating individuals as “saints” on memorial days or mimicking elements from previous attacks. As noted by others, Robinson’s inscriptions on bullet cases closely resemble the meme messages left on ammunition and firearms by a young shooter from a Minneapolis Catholic School attack, echoing the patterns left by United Healthcare CEO shooter Luigi Mangione on bullets, which was visible on a popular alt-fashion brand’s shirt.
Robinson’s messages do not provide a clear motive for Kirk’s murder. Prosecutors claim Robinson indicated he shot Kirk because he believed conservative activists were perpetuating hatred. His mother reportedly stated that her son had “become more political, more inclined towards the left, and supportive of gay and trans rights.”
However, the path to Robinson’s radicalization remains unclear. There is a vast gulf between opposing Kirk’s ideologies and enacting targeted violence. Experts increasingly contend that the motivations behind such actions, especially among young individuals, are shaped more by the fragmented and chaotic online landscape of modern politics rather than fitting neatly into traditional political categories. Neglecting the radical nature of these individuals in favor of simplified narratives can obscure the factors driving them towards extremist violence.
Radicalization of being online
Rather than striving to decipher the exact meanings behind the sarcastic trolling messages left by attackers, researchers studying extremism argue that understanding how online media contributes to widespread radicalization is more valuable. In fact, many suggest that the current era of political violence is markedly different from past occurrences due to the influential role of social media and online communities in radicalizing and isolating users.
While technological factors represent only part of the rise in political violence—alongside mental health concerns, political polarization, and easy access to firearms in the U.S.—extremist researchers increasingly focus on how social media platforms and online environments evolve to foster radicalization.
In a 2023 paper by George Washington University’s Project on Extremism, Jacob Wear, explained the emergence of what he termed the “third generation of online radicals” in the late 2010s. Characteristics of this generation include how memetic culture facilitates radicalization and normalizes attacks, as well as a shift away from ideology and group affiliations towards individual acts of violence. Wear argues that online culture surrounding violence and extremism blurs the conventional boundaries of terrorism, spurring content designed to showcase acts of violence.
“Global grievances are expressed with great intensity in localized contexts, yet the primary audience often remains online,” writes Wear.
The expansion of social media and the erosion of traditional gatekeeping have muddled strategies to combat escalating online radicalization, especially given shifts in social media platforms. Responsibility for hosting violent and extreme content has become a contentious issue. What was once a standard policy among media organizations and platforms to refrain from disseminating a perpetrator’s manifesto has evolved into a public health debate among researchers, deteriorating as social media platforms replaced amateur detectives who amplified the digital footprints of individuals for perilous discoveries. Furthermore, as messages and memes from attackers spread more effortlessly, riffs about violence produce more posts, transforming them into consumable content. This represents a particularly grim aspect of an industry that has thrived by algorithmically promoting politically divisive and extremist content.
Consequently, online culture has become intertwined with extremism and political violence, increasingly blurring lines as previously extremist internet culture permeates everyday online experiences. The use of sarcastic humor associated with violence and extremism isn’t new to the digital landscape—a 1944 essay debated how factions entertained themselves with euphemisms of hate, yet has now become a prominent feature of online interaction. Ideologies and memes that were once confined to obscure message boards and extremist sites now serve as the common language of the Internet, disseminated across mainstream social media platforms.
Kirk is also a product of this online milieu, widely recognized for his confrontational, debate-style clips that have gone viral, stirring reactions from various political audiences.
The footage of Kirk’s murder has since propagated through the same online ecosystem that once rendered him omnipresent, now autoplaying on X without caution for viewers. The aftermath of his death has blended into the same content machine, with video essays analyzing the murder and AI-generated tributes portraying his legacy online. One aspiring influencer who attended the event where Kirk was fatally shot attempted to exploit the chaos for content, posting videos promoting his social media channels amid the turmoil.
“Make sure to subscribe!” the TikToker, who later deleted the video, exclaimed while flashing peace signs as attendees screamed and fled.
hGreetings from Ello and TechScape! Dara Kerr is here to fill in for Blake Montgomery, who is currently on vacation. In the meantime, I’m diving into the memes, games, and internet culture that surround Charlie Kirk’s recent filming.
The bullet that claimed the life of a conservative activist bore the inscription, “What will this inflate?” This quickly caught the attention of the online community. It’s a phrase often used in internet culture to poke fun at participants in online role-play communities, particularly within the fur fandom, where individuals dress up as anthropomorphic animal characters.
“The phrase is embraced by the fur community not just to tease them for being cringy, but also to claim ownership over memes,” he writes. Know your memes, a site that chronicles viral trends. “Ultimately, this phrase functions as a meme and is regarded as one of the most annoying things to say to someone else.”
Other bullet casings seized by law enforcement in Utah featured inscriptions that referenced online games and niche memes, igniting a wave of speculation on social media regarding the potential motives behind the murder. One casing read: “O Bella Ciao, Bella Ciao,” while another stated, “If you read this, you’re gay, Lmao.” The former connects to an Italian anti-fascist folk song, while the latter is described by web culture writer Ryan Broderick as “just a boilerplate edgy joke.” Last week’s newsletter carried the title, “Charlie Kirk was killed by a meme.”
The final bullet casing disclosed by law enforcement read, “Heyfascist! Catch!” followed by a series of arrow symbols. This sequence appears to allude to commands in the video game Helldivers 2 that are used to deploy 500kg bombs.
Suspect Tyler James Robinson, a 22-year-old from a small Utah town near the Arizona border, has been charged with Kirk’s murder at a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem. Kirk was hit by a single bullet fired from a “powerful bolt-action rifle” from a distant rooftop.
Both the suspect and the 31-year-old victim, Charlie Kirk, were well-versed in online culture. Kirk was associated with Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization, known for engaging in discussions about extremist views on race, immigration, gender identity, and gun rights. His rise to fame was primarily fueled by his strong online presence.
As my colleague Alaina Demopoulos wrote:
Kirk, a pivotal figure in Donald Trump’s rise, galvanized college conservatives who transitioned to a different ecosystem than mainstream media. Throughout the decade between Kirk’s emergence as a teenage activist and the shooting, he played a crucial role in the growth of MAGA politics alongside changes in the media landscape.
Founded in 2012, Turning Point USA aimed to redirect Obama-era youth outreach toward conservative values. Even adversaries of his views couldn’t disregard his significant presence in the political arena. For a young American viewer, Kirk represented a savvy figure across platforms like YouTube, Twitter, Tiktok, and live events—akin to a millennial and Gen Z version of Rush Limbaugh, the influential right-wing radio host of the 1990s.
You can read the full story here.
Photo: Peter Dasilva/Reuters
Recently, Meta faced allegations from two independent whistleblowers. One group of former and current employees claims that Meta’s virtual reality devices and apps are harming children. Another whistleblower, Attaullah Baig, who previously served as a security officer for Meta and WhatsApp, accuses the company of overlooking significant security and privacy issues within a messaging app, according to The New York Times.
In response to these VR device allegations, Meta spokesperson Dani Lever stated that the company has approved 180 studies related to VR since 2022. “Some of these examples are stitched together to fit a particular narrative and misrepresent the truth,” she asserted. Meta also emphasized having implemented features in its VR products to limit unwanted interactions and provide parental supervision tools.
One of the first whistleblowers, Sophie Chang, brought her findings to the Guardian in 2021. She documented how Facebook facilitated political manipulation across over 25 countries. Later that same year, Frances Haugen shared with the Wall Street Journal documentation examining various allegations made by Zhang, revealing Facebook’s awareness of the harm its social media apps posed to teenagers.
In 2023, Arturo Bejard also provided evidence to the Wall Street Journal, providing further proof that Meta recognized how Facebook and Instagram algorithms directed content to teenagers that amplified bullying, substance abuse, eating disorders, and self-harm.
This year alone, eight additional whistleblowers have stepped forward. Baig, alongside a group of six former employees, came forward last week.
U.S. lawmakers are taking these allegations seriously. Politicians such as Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley and Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal have expressed urgency in regulating Meta and other social media platforms.
“The revelations from these disclosures exhibit such significant risks to safety that it’s troubling. It shows that Meta is intentionally distorting the truth about abuse on the platform. ‘See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’ is more than just a business philosophy—it’s a troubling narrative,” stated Blumenthal, who also mentioned that he and other senators are eager to advocate for “long-overdue reforms.”
In the German fairy tale of the fisherman and his wife, an old man catches a peculiar fish—a talking flounder. This enchanting creature holds an enchanted prince within, granting any wish the fisherman desires. His wife, Ilsevil, revels in her newfound fortune, continuously asking for more extravagant things. They transform their humble shed into a grand castle, yet it never feels sufficient. Ultimately, she desires to become Pope, and eventually, God. This insatiable greed enrages the elemental power, darkens the ocean, and restores her to her original impoverished state. The moral of the story: Don’t covet what you aren’t entitled to.
Numerous variations of this classic tale exist. Sometimes, wishes are clumsy or contradictory rather than overtly aggressive toward the divine order, as seen in Charles Perrault’s “outrageous wishes.” Similarly, in W.W. Jacobs’ 1902 horror story “The Monkey’s Paw,” wishes unintentionally harm those closer to the wishers than the objects of their desires.
Nowadays, many young people grow up with their own enchanted fish in their pockets. They can wish for homework completion, and the fish fulfills those wishes. They can indulge in countless sexual scenarios, and if they bypass age restrictions using a VPN, those scenarios become visible. Soon, they may wish for movies that match their interests, and those will materialize in seconds. They hope to finish their college essays—only to find them fully written.
This shift in perspective not only alters the consumer relationship with creative arts—literature, music, and visual content—but also redefines the essence of creativity and, thus, being human. In the near future, most individuals may delegate troublesome interactions to AI agents. These agents would negotiate contracts, act as representatives, receive critique, match information, and gather opinions. And the ocean remains undisturbed.
Currently, a young Ilsevil, sitting in a university auditorium, might still face fines from professors who grew up in a different era when they see her entrusting a seductive fish to write yet another essay. However, this won’t last much longer, as Ilsevil will soon belong to a confident majority, with most professors having shared her experiences. Ilsevil desires a boyfriend, a spiritual guide, and a therapist, and soon, she will have them. With each of these connections, it feels as if Ilsevil has known them for years, and in a literal sense, she has.
Just like her mythological counterpart, she aspires to be Pope and soon accomplishes this within her small world. However, one could challenge Ilsevil for complicating matters. If becoming Pope becomes effortless, the allure of the title will dwindle for her generation. After all, the most intriguing and desirable things often require overcoming significant obstacles. Yet, Ilsevil understands that the nature of this attractive resistance can also be found in encouragement, learning, and even more precise wishes.
Today, young people grow up with enchanting fish in their pockets…the fisherman and his wife. Illustration: Aramie
She dedicates much of her energy to refining the tone of her results. Though she may lack an innate sense of what makes her writing compelling, she can gauge the appropriateness of her content through responses from others and AI. This becomes a way to develop wishes that are more reliable than ever before. In times past, Ilsevil rarely encountered anyone who found her words intriguing or surprising. However, nowadays, every conversation she has with her AI is regarded as captivating and surprising. At last, she feels heard in a way that human partners might struggle to offer.
But what occurs when the fulfillment of all wishes leads Ilsevil to feel empty? What paths remain open to her?
The first path is the descent into decadence. This pattern is familiar from studies of affluent individuals. In the future, those with ample wealth will be able to hire human therapists or enjoy films featuring real people. Recently, someone in an AI forum suggested that AI might produce excessive amounts of child sexual abuse imagery, suggesting that this will avoid harm to real children. Consumers of such visuals seek not only visual stimulation but also a sense of certainty that real children were harmed. They claim the “aura” surrounding their products. With sufficient resources, Ilsevil could tread this path, just as they do.
The second path involves creating a small, insular community that deliberately constructs challenges and obstacles for one another, perhaps in a cult-like manner reminiscent of traditional sports or hunting clubs. They may host secret or exclusive underground events, with no other objective than to endure the discomfort of queuing and waiting. This concept was inspired by Stanisław Lem’s novel “Futurological Congress.” As of 2025, queuing remains a free experience, but future generations may be astonished by this.
The third path is both the most likely and the most obvious. Within her fairytale existence, Ilsevil uncovers the fundamental principle of redefining her wishes, enhancing their significance while infusing them with a sense of guilt. Guilt is a powerful mechanism constraining individuals to a product; a beloved but embarrassing product becomes intertwined with one’s identity, fostering neuroses and alternative realities that amplify this guilt.
Ilsevil naturally assumes the enormous ecological guilt connected to the immense resource waste created by AI. This primary guilt has shifted directly to her from the actions of large corporations and states. Consequently, she begins to limit and punish herself in her daily life. Each morning, she awakes with the conviction that every small choice and desire inflicts great harm on the “planet,” “society,” or “future.” She flourishes within her martyr-like guilt, assuming a savior’s role. This newfound identity feels like an eternal struggle without resolution, becoming a magical element that preserves her self-sacrificial essence amidst her internal contradictions. Rather than protesting against the insatiable waste of resources, Ilsevil constrains her personal freedom, encompassing nutrition, water consumption, family size, and mobility. Ultimately, she embodies a sort of sacrificial figure, taking all her transgressions to the grave.
The cautionary tales of European folklore against impulsive and unwise wishes stem from a universal theme: the intricate journey of individual lives. They explore questions about personal growth, life’s purpose, and what to pass on to the next generation. Yet in this final scenario, Ilsevil finds herself unable to address these fundamental questions freely; they are decided for her.
Psychoanalysts Can Aid Couples in Clarifying Relationship Concerns
Carl Navarro Percesus/Getty Images
Labour of Love Stephen Grosz (UK: Chatto & Windus, Available Now; US: Random House, February 10, 2026)
Psychoanalysts, with their deep understanding of human emotions, might seem to enjoy relationships devoid of the tumult that often impacts our romantic endeavors.
However, in his compelling memoir, Labour of Love, Grosz delves into over 40 years of discussions about love with his patients, observing the intricate web involving four of his colleagues. At first, Susan and Paul appear to be a blissfully married couple, just like Kora and Martin, until it’s revealed that Paul and Kora have maintained a secret affair for two years.
The ensuing critique strikes at the very essence of their profession. “I’ve never fully grasped what it means to be a psychoanalyst,” Susan confides to Kora. “I possess empathy, I care for others, I establish boundaries, I perceive reality. Avoid taking your friend’s husband.” For Susan, psychoanalysis seems to focus on accountability and self-regulation. Kora, on the other hand, believes her journey is about achieving complete self-awareness. To her, psychoanalysis serves the purpose of intentional self-discovery.
Grosz reflects on these paradoxes, arriving at ambiguous conclusions. He suggests that while psychoanalysis may target both objectives, neither should be a primary aim. “It benefits the patient and enhances her well-being. However, these goals may obscure the hidden desire to restrict the patient’s freedom,” he states. Psychoanalysts enable their patients to gain insights into their minds, but how they utilize that understanding remains their own decision.
Skeptics might contend that psychoanalysis lacks scientific validity. After all, how can one measure the effectiveness of interventions on mental processes? Initially pioneered by Sigmund Freud, psychoanalysis employs informal dialogues to uncover unconscious dynamics, often involving extended discussions that may last for years, including in-depth explorations of childhood. This contrasts sharply with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which utilizes specific exercises aimed at altering immediate thoughts and behaviors, such as more aggressive strategies to “reconstruct” experiences.
“
Grosz has drawn comparisons to Anton Chekhov and Oliver Sacks. “
Nowadays, CBT is often the preferred initial treatment for various mental health issues, yet clinical trials indicate that psychoanalysis effectively enhances well-being. Labour of Love offers a captivating exploration of this process through the stories of Gross’s patients and acquaintances.
Take Sophie, for example. When Gross first meets her, she’s engaged, but despite her hopes for a future marriage, she hesitates to send out any invitations. She is plagued by haunting dreams about her parents’ demise. Together, they eventually trace this fear back to her parents and their loss, which occurred before Sophie was born. She dreads any changes that might separate her from them.
Often, individuals’ issues stem from a fear of losing their identity. “A crucial distinction exists between surrendering to something (or someone) and submitting to it,” Gross asserts. Submissions equate to transactions and involve relinquishing control, whereas mutual surrender fosters vitality, empowerment, and acceptance. In that space, love can flourish.
The journey to comprehend Labour of Love is not straightforward. As the title implies, understanding both ourselves and our beloved requires consistent effort.
Grosz is a compelling writer whose thoughtful narratives frequently illuminate the complexities of human experiences. A review of his earlier work, Researched Life, likened him to literary figures such as Anton Chekhov and Oliver Sacks. His storytelling shines particularly when illustrating the intertwined lives of fellow psychoanalysts. For instance, during Cola’s death, Paul connects deeply with Cola’s family while sitting shiva. In this poignant moment, he finds solace in Susan’s presence.
This scene encapsulates the contradictions inherent in love, as Grosz elaborates: “Susan and Paul loved, resented, married, and divorced. Yet, even during this challenging period, they remained a couple. Their love continued to evolve.”
David Robson is the author of The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies That Transform Your Life
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Presence: Everywhere, particularly on social media.
That seems somewhat derogatory. Indeed, it’s considered a slur.
What type of slur? A slur targeting robots.
Is it because they are made of metal? Yes, it’s often used to insult actual robots like delivery bots and autonomous vehicles, but it increasingly targets platforms like AI chatbots and ChatGPT.
I’m not familiar with this – why would I want to belittle AI? For information creation, they either promote utterly false narratives and generate “slops” (meaning glitter or clearly unfounded content), or simply lack human qualities.
Does AI care about being insulted? It’s a complex philosophical issue, and the consensus is “no.”
So why does it matter? People feel frustrated with technology that can become widespread and potentially disrupt job markets.
Come here and let Crancous take over our responsibilities! That’s the notion.
Where did this slur originate? It was first used in the 2005 Star Wars game to describe PE Jor’s fight against Androids, but Clanker gained popularity through the Clone Wars TV series. It then spread to platforms like Reddit, memes, and TikTok.
Is that truly the best we can do? Popular culture has birthed other anti-robot slurs. There’s “Toaster” from Battlestar Galactica and “Skin Job” from Blade Runner, but “Clanker” seems to have taken the lead for now.
It seems like a frivolous waste of time, but I suppose it’s largely harmless. You might think so, yet it implies that using “clankers” could normalize real bias.
Oh, come on. Popular memes and parody videos often equate “clankers” to racial slurs.
So what? They’re just clankers. “This inclination to use such terms reveals more about our insecurities than about the technology itself,” says linguist Adam Alexick.
I haven’t. Anti-robot; I wouldn’t want to marry my daughter. Can you hear how that sounds?
I feel like I’ll be quite embarrassed about all this in ten years. Probably. Some argue that by mocking AI, we risk elevating it to a human level that isn’t guaranteed.
That’s definitely my view. However, “Roko’s Basilisk” suggests that future AI could punish those who didn’t help them thrive initially.
I believe it’s vital to label it a Clanker. We might find ourselves apologizing to robot overlords for past injustices.
Will they find humor in this? Perhaps one day Clanker will have a sense of humor about it.
Say: “This desire to create a slur reflects more on our insecurities than the technology itself.”
Don’t say: “Some of my best friends are Clankers.”
Language remains one of the few attributes regarded as uniquely human. While animals like chimpanzees and songbirds exhibit advanced communication systems, they do not convey meaning on the same scale as humans. So, what prompted our ancestors to develop language?
Madeleine Beekman, an evolutionary biologist with a focus on insects, particularly honeybees, presents an engaging explanation in her first book aimed at general audiences regarding the evolution of human language.
Her hypothesis suggests that language emerged as a necessity to meet the challenges of parenting. In comparison to other mammals, human infants are quite helpless at birth and need around-the-clock care.
Echoing decades of paleontological research, Beekman links the vulnerable state of infants to two factors: a larger brain and a narrower pelvis. “As our bodies adapted for bipedalism, our hips narrowed,” she notes. As a result, our brains grew larger. “A big-headed baby and a mother with a narrow pelvis don’t work well together,” Beekman elaborates.
To circumvent this “obstetric dilemma,” infants are born at an earlier stage, leading to the situation where their heads are too large for a narrow birth canal. This adaptation allows for safer childbirth but necessitates extended care for the fragile young.
Thus far, the narrative is familiar. Beekman’s significant leap is to propose that the requirements of caring for human offspring spurred the development of complex languages. “Caring for human babies is incredibly challenging, leading evolution to craft entirely new tools to assist with this effort,” she asserts, “the design flaws that initiated the issue ultimately offered a solution.” While our brains made childbirth more complicated, we simultaneously developed our capacity for a richer, more flexible language.
In presenting this idea, Beekman navigates a bustling marketplace of theories on language evolution. Various hypotheses exist; some contend that language arose alongside toolmaking, where the development of advanced tools required more descriptive language for instruction. Others suggest language served as a means of social distinction, encompassing clever wordplay and insults. Additionally, it may have initially been a cognitive tool, primarily for individual thought before evolving to facilitate communication with others.
One intriguing element of Beekman’s theory is her emphasis on the roles of women and children. Science has historically leaned towards male-centered viewpoints, often overshadowing the significant evolutionary shifts linked to pregnancy (e.g., the “Hunter” model).
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The authors contend that language is around 100,000 years old and unique to our species. “
It’s essential to reflect on the contributions of women and children in the story of language’s origins. However, this doesn’t necessarily affirm Beekman’s thesis. She presents compelling evidence, notably showing that many large birds, including parrots and New Caledonian crows, produce underdeveloped offspring. Why? A 2023 study indicated that the primary predictor of avian brain size was the degree of parental care.
All of this resonates with Beekman’s narrative. Yet, the most pressing question remains: timing. Humans have been walking on two legs for at least 6 million years, and our brains have expanded rapidly for the last 2 million years. Given this extensive timeline, when did language actually develop?
Beekman posits that modern language is roughly 100,000 years old and specific to our species. She references 2020 research pinpointing “unique gene regulatory networks that shape the anatomy crucial for precise word production.” These networks appear to exist solely in our species, indicating that other human relatives, like Neanderthals, may not have possessed the same linguistic capabilities.
Beekman considers this “conclusive,” yet other scholars have unearthed evidence that suggests the possibility of complex language in other human species. The evolution surrounding human childbirth remains as intertwined as it is uncertain. In summary, robust ideas necessitate further proof.
Michael Marshall is a writer based in Devon, UK
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I visited the V&A Exhibition on design/play/confusion. Back in 2018, you may have experienced an intriguing set of mini-games. In this space, one could navigate a Tetris-like board to balance calories perfectly, while also battling quirky physics to nourish a character named Jenny, twisting her into a Pilates position.
Nearly seven years later, the complete version of Consume Me, which recently snagged the Grand Prize at the Independent Game Festival, is set to release this September. Developer Jenny Jiao Hsia explains that the game evolved into a semi-autobiographical narrative reflecting her high school feelings of being “silly, fat, and ugly.” What initially started as a series of mini-games focusing on Hsia’s struggles with restrictive dieting has transformed into an exploration of various aspects of her teenage life.
Many aspects of life as a teenager… consumer me. Photo: 66
Hsia and co-designer Alec “AP” Thomson have been collaborating on games since their time at NYU Game Center. The idea for Consume Me emerged when Hsia shared her old diaries with Thomson, which contained her calorie charts and dieting notes. “I thought, ‘Hey, doesn’t this look like a game?'” she recalls. Thomson concurred, stating, “We started with a small prototype, and once we secured funding, the game really took off.”
The duo continued to refine their ideas, aiming to create a substantial game. “The last major project we worked on was essentially a student project,” Thomson mentions. This game was a match-3 puzzle released in 2016, and compared to that, “the entire process of Consume Me is completely different.” Hsia humorously reflects on the experience, saying, “I sat next to AP every day and was eager to guide him. With Consume Me, I had to take on more responsibility. I don’t consider myself very experienced, so it took me quite some time.”
Hsia clarifies that Consume Me was not meant as a means to address her challenges with dieting, as she left behind a phase of her life before the game’s development. Instead, she finds that crafting the narrative from her own experiences yields a richer story. “If you’re creating something from scratch without solid experiences to draw from—unless you have a strong imagination—I think it’s uninteresting,” she notes. “The character Jenny in the game isn’t solely based on me. She’s a blend of AP and me, depicting the enthusiasm for achieving goals beyond her to-do list.”
Hsia expresses her surprise that many players find Consume Me relatable and approachable. Individuals who struggle with focus might see themselves in the reading mini-games, where Jenny’s attention keeps spinning in circles with her books. Moreover, she often finds herself short on time. Additionally, Jenny’s financial woes are highlighted in a mini-game where she discovers a lucky $20 bill on the street while walking her dog, humorously dealing with its “tremendous” bowel movements. Jenny’s habit of discovering money on the streets of New York is a reflection of Hsia’s own life experiences.
“I’m curious about what people actually take away from the game,” she admits. “It’s fascinating to showcase a part of your life and let a stranger interpret it, then watch their reactions.”
Growing up, it was a tradition for my peers to join scouts when they turned 9 or 10. My parents gifted me a scout uniform accompanied by a matching scarf and a leather toggle to secure it at the collar.
We sat in a circle on the ground, each perched on small stools, as our leader spoke to us seriously. After discussing the essence of being a junior scout, he instructed us to pay close attention as he recited the scouting pledge, which we solemnly repeated.
It was the first moment I realized I was different; as I articulated those words, the others appeared captivated by this rite of passage. Yet, unlike them, I felt no emotional connection to the sacred bonds forged with fellow inductees or those who had come before us—just the emptiness of mere words.
Most people find it challenging to envision a state where one doesn’t feel a deep-seated affinity or loyalty to any group. This experience is rare; some consider such psychological tendencies as disorders to be addressed. However, over my 40 years as a clinical psychiatrist, I’ve come to understand that many of my patients (and I) being indifferent to group memberships isn’t necessarily a psychological issue.
Otroverts is a term embraced by individuals who don’t feel bound to merge their identities with others. We all begin life as otroverts until childhood cultural influences solidify our attachments to various identities and groups.
The struggle to identify with a group can lead to social implications in cultures structured around participation. However, being outside these groups can have its advantages: free from implicit rules and influences of belonging, unoften brings originality and emotional autonomy.
By being on the outside, you’re free to think and create unfettered. GroupThink loses its hold, allowing you to discern your thoughts from the collective’s gravitational pull, enabling you to explore ideas without the fear of undermining the group’s notion of what constitutes a “good” idea.
Since you can’t be expelled from a group you aren’t part of, fears of social rejection diminish. There’s no need for external validation or relying on others for emotional support; you don’t feel compelled to prove your worth to anyone.
Our society often blurs the line between connection and belonging. Yet it’s essential to recognize that those who find it challenging to connect may struggle to foster a sense of belonging, but that doesn’t mean they lack connection entirely. In reality, free from the distractions of pop culture, cliques, family disputes, and political factions (all of which relate to otroverts), one can truly bond with those who resonate on a deeper level.
History showcases many independent thinkers who maintain emotional detachment from any group, allowing them to recognize the fanaticism of groupthink long before deviating into it. Orwell is a notable example.
Sadly, it appears that individuals often need to rise from the ashes of destructive group dynamics before they can grasp their rightful path as independent thinkers.
We might learn from the otrovert perspective that while community has its merits, we must remain acutely aware of its darker tribal undercurrents.
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In human stories, I aim to address common questions about human evolution. In February 2021, I tackled a query that many find perplexing—whether Neanderthals and modern humans are distinct species (short answer: species boundaries are ambiguous).
This month, we confront another frequently asked question: Do Denisovans, the extinct human group once prevalent in Asia, have a designated species name? If so, what should that name be?
The debate regarding the “official” name of the Denisovans has been lively since their discovery in 2010. Notably, in June, the skull of Harbin, dubbed the Dragon Man from northern China, was classified as Denisovan through molecular evidence. This marked the first acquisition of a Denisovan skull, giving us insights into their facial features.
While participating in New Scientist discussions, host Rowan Hooper asked why Denisovans lack a species name. Why can’t we refer to them as Homo Denisovanensis, similar to how Neanderthals are called Homo Neanderthalensis?
I preferred a straightforward explanation: insufficient information has hindered a definitive classification of Denisovans. Their DNA shows significant divergence from Neanderthal DNA; yet, we require detailed insights into their anatomy and skeletal structure.
However, this inquiry is multifaceted. First, we must identify which fossils unequivocally belong to Denisovans. This involves analyzing numerous specimens and decades of research, complicating the resolution. Secondly, we need to determine which of the assigned names should take precedence under our classification norms—a legal question that adds to the complexity.
Who’s Included and Who’s Excluded?
A brief reminder about Denisovans: they are an enigmatic group of humans initially identified in 2010 from fragments of a finger bone discovered in the Denisova Cave in Siberia’s Altai Mountains. Genetic analysis revealed they were distinct from both modern humans and Neanderthals. Moreover, many contemporary individuals, especially in Southeast Asia and Melanesia, carry Denisovan DNA.
This suggests that Denisovans were quite widespread in East Asia over the past several hundred thousand years. So, where are the Denisovan fossils?
Fifteen years later, a handful of Denisovan fossils have been actively categorized. For example, mandibles discovered on the Tibetan Plateau were identified through fossil proteins and sediment DNA. Similarly, a jawbone retrieved from the Pengle waterway off the coast of Taiwan was confirmed as Denisovan in April.
Nonetheless, we still lack a complete skeleton. Identifying the Harbin skull as Denisovan brought us closer to understanding their appearance, yet many more discoveries are necessary.
Numerous human fossils in East Asia potentially belong to Denisovans. However, categorizing these remains has proven challenging, as they often do not resemble established species like modern humans, Neanderthals, or even Homo Erectus. If adequate specimens surface, thus confirming their Denisovan identity, our understanding could significantly improve, leading to a formal classification.
But how do we determine which fossils are Denisovan? Ideally, we seek molecular evidence of preserved DNA or protein for comparison with the original Denisovan remnants. However, many fossils remain unanalyzed or inaccessible.
One notable effort to address this issue was a preliminary study submitted by a team led by Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in March 2024. By comparing 57 human fossils for various physical traits, they constructed familial relationships between these findings.
The team found three primary groups among Eurasian hominins: Modern Humans, Neanderthals, and a third group composed of the original Denisovan fossil, the Tibetan cave jawbone, the Pengle jawbone, and the Harbin skull. This third category appears to represent those we refer to as Denisovans.
This is an intriguing proposition, but others disagree.
A collection of contentious fossils from Hualongdong, southern China, offers a wealth of material: an almost complete skull, 14 teeth, an upper jaw, six isolated teeth, and additional fragments dating back around 300,000 years.
While the NI team classified the Hualongdong specimens as part of the Denisovan group, a study led by Xiujie Wu in July suggested that these teeth did not show clear correlations, proposing instead that they may belong to a different hominin group. Another interpretation could be that the Denisovans at Hualongdong were somewhat disparate from those in other regions.
In the meantime, other intriguing fossils from Asia continue to emerge. Among them are specimens from Dariscal and Jinniushan, both around 260,000 years old, which Ni’s team has suggested might also belong to the Denisovan lineage.
As the list of contending Denisovan fossils grows, we must decide how to categorize them.
The Harbin Skull
Hebei Geo University
Homo — What Does It Mean?
Interestingly, I was part of the team that described the Harbin skull in 2021, and we named it Homo Longhi. So, could that be the name we assign to Denisovans?
However, last year a competing proposition was put forth by Woo and Christopher Beh from the University of Hawaii, who suggested that we should center around fossils from Xujiayao in northern China, proposing to call this new species Homo Jurensis—fossils that would include the original Denisovan findings.
This idea’s strength lies in the resemblance of Xujiayao fossils to Denisovan remains, a point also observed by the NI team. However, Bae and Wu aimed to designate the Xujiayao fossils as “type specimens.”
This raises two issues: the classification of fossils and the naming protocols. Let’s examine each aspect separately.
In classification, the Homo Jurensis proposal faces challenges. Bae and Wu classify the Harbin skull as Homo Jurensis or Denisovan, yet it lacks sufficient resemblance to warrant such designation. A study published in June demonstrated molecular evidence clearly linking the Harbin skull to Denisovans. Hence, identifying those fossils as Denisovan would contravene objective realities, making Homo Jurensis seem unfounded.
What about taxonomy? This area is intricate. A crucial factor is the concept of priority, where the first proposed name tends to gain precedence. Hence, Homo Longhi might likely take precedence over Homo Jurensis as it was suggested three years earlier.
Are there alternative names for Denisovans?
The excavators of Denisova Cave never formally classified Denisovans as a distinct species. Anatoly Derebianco, part of that team, suggested the name Homo Sapiens Altaiensis, implying they would serve as a modern human subspecies—yet this proposal lacked formal status, rendering it typically insignificant.
This year, Derebianco has published a series of papers discussing what Denisovans could be. His references include locations in Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Iran, referring to them collectively as Homo sapiens denisovan. I remain unsure if formal explanations were provided, as only abstracts were published, and if completed, it occurred post the naming of Homo Longhi.
Lastly, it’s possible that one of the names was assigned to an Asian human fossil within an obscure publication decades ago. If the fossil is ultimately identified as Denisovan, the name takes precedence (assuming it was adequately introduced). Nevertheless, Wu, Bae, Ni, and others assessed this notion in 2023 and concluded that many crucial fossils were not appropriately named. For instance, there was a suggestion to label Dali’s skull as Homo Dariensis, yet such ideas amounted to informal statements rather than formally recognized classifications.
Your head might be swirling from this cascade of names and species classifications, so let’s recap: the critical takeaway is our evolving understanding of Denisovans, which brings us closer to officially designating their name.
Given our comprehension of taxonomic norms and their significance, Homo Longhi could emerge as the official designation. Although I can’t influence the decision, they will always remain Denisovans in my mind.
Welcome to YouTube in the era of AI-generated videos: featuring a baby stranded in space, a zombie football star, and a cat drama set among the stars.
Currently, one in ten of the fastest-growing YouTube channels globally is dedicated entirely to AI-generated content, highlighting advances in technology that have led to an influx of artificial media.
According to an analysis by the Guardian, which utilized data from analytics firms like Playboard, nine of the top 100 fastest-growing channels this July featured solely AI-generated content.
These channels offer bizarre narratives, such as babies aboard pre-launch rockets, an undead Cristiano Ronaldo, and melodramas starring anthropomorphized cats. The surge in AI video creation is propelled by powerful new tools like Google’s VEO 3 and Elon Musk’s Grok Imagine.
One channel has garnered 1.6 million views and 3.9 million subscribers, called Space Chain, while the Super Cat League features a human-like cat in surreal scenarios, including a scene where it confronts an eagle.
Many of these videos are labeled “AI Slop,” indicating their low quality and mass production. Despite this, some offer a rudimentary plot, signaling advances in the sophistication of AI-generated content.
YouTube has attempted to manage this influx of low-quality AI content by implementing a policy to block advertising revenue sharing from channels that primarily post repetitive or “fraudulent” content.
A YouTube spokesperson emphasized that all uploaded content must adhere to Community Guidelines.
After the Guardian inquired about certain channels from June’s fastest-growing list, YouTube confirmed the removal of three such channels and the blocking of two others, though they did not disclose specifics.
Experts indicate that AI-generated videos signal a new phase of internet “Enshittification,” a term coined by Doctorow in 2022 to describe the decline in online user experiences as platforms prioritize their own gains over quality content delivery.
“AI Slop is flooding the platform with content that is essentially worthless,” noted Dr. Akhil Bhardwaj, an associate professor at Bath University. “This enshittification has damaged the quality of the Pinterest community and overwhelmed YouTube with subpar content aimed solely at revenue generation.”
“One way social media companies could regulate AI Slop is by ensuring it remains unmonetizable.”
Ryan Broderick, who writes the popular Garbage Day Newsletter on internet culture, described YouTube last week as a “dumping ground for AI shorts utterly devoid of substance.”
Other platforms like Instagram also showcase a plethora of AI-generated content. For instance, one popular video features a blend of celebrity heads and animal bodies, such as “rophant” (Dwayne Johnson paired with an elephant) and “Emira” (Eminem as a gorilla), attracting 3.7 million views here.
On TikTok, numerous AI-generated videos are going viral, including one titled “Abraham Lincoln Blogging”, showcasing his unfortunate trip to the opera, and another with cats in Olympic diving events. These videos capture the playful, quirky spirit characteristic of the internet.
Instagram and TikTok have announced that all realistic AI content should be labeled. Videos suspected of being AI-generated from these platforms are cross-verified with the DeepFake Detection Service provider Real Defender.
Here are the channels showcasing AI videos for July:
Conceptual image of a spacecraft navigating near a black hole
Liuzishan/Getty Images
An interstellar spacecraft designed to explore a black hole could transmit data back to Earth in roughly 100 years.
Cosimo Bambi from the University of Hudang in Shanghai has devised a framework for such missions utilizing technologies projected to be available within the next 20 to 30 years.
By approaching a black hole, we can validate Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity and uncover the behavior of fundamental physical constants in extreme gravitational fields.
The nearest well-known black hole is approximately 1500 light years away. However, within our Milky Way galaxy, there is estimated to be one black hole for every 100 ordinary stars. This suggests a significant likelihood of locating a black hole within 20 to 25 light years, says Bambi.
Identifying a black hole poses challenges, as these entities do not emit light; astronomers must infer their existence by observing their gravitational influence on surrounding stars.
Reaching a black hole within 25 light years of our solar system will require advanced technological developments, but according to Bambi, “it’s achievable.” Within a century, spacecraft could be minuscule, featuring sails that cover 10 square meters and propelled by light. Such crafts could theoretically accelerate to about one-third the speed of light through pulses from high-powered lasers.
“Currently, light sails and nanocrafts appear to be the most viable options for interstellar travel since they can achieve speeds approaching that of light,” Bambi states. However, he estimates that the power required for an effective laser system could reach approximately 1 trillion euros today.
To validate predictions concerning general relativity, it may be necessary to dispatch two miniature spacecraft or release a secondary probe as the primary nanocraft nears a black hole. The secondary craft would venture closer to the black hole, while the primary craft remains at a safe distance, gathering data and relaying it back to Earth.
Gerlan Lewis from the University of Sydney acknowledges that while the challenges are significant, the proposal is far from impossible.
However, the extensive time frame for the proposed mission introduces a possibility that nanocrafts could become outdated by the time they reach their destination. Lewis remarks, “Considering 100 years of technological advancement, can we truly predict what kind of propulsion system might exist then?”
“A mission to black holes would likely resemble this proposal, akin to how we might imagine the advancements of the 20th century, 500 years in the past,” he adds.
Lewis points out that Bambi’s plans do not address how to decelerate the nanocrafts upon arrival at the black hole. Bambi suggests that the simplest approach is to not slow the vehicle at all, but rather deploy a probe to transmit data back to the main craft for Earth delivery.
“In such scenarios, the probes won’t stop around the black hole; they will merely pass by. Some may be drawn into the black hole, which should provide sufficient data to analyze the black hole’s gravitational field,” he explains.
Sam Baron at the University of Melbourne describes Bambi’s framework as one of the most “speculative” research papers he has encountered, but notes that a century ago, the construction of the Large Hadron Collider would have seemed like science fiction.
“I believe utilizing small-scale technologies is likely the way forward,” he observes. “The question remains whether we can indeed engineer something that meets all the criteria outlined in this paper.”
Bambi emphasizes that human beings cannot personally venture to black holes due to the extreme accelerative forces—around 10,000 g—that nanocraft would need to endure. “Unless we discover a wormhole in the fabric of space-time to provide a shortcut,” he notes.
“We really need a nearby wormhole like in the movie Interstellar” to facilitate human missions,” he concludes. “Unfortunately, my assessment is that wormholes are purely theoretical at this point.”
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Mark Twain famously remarked, “If you were born at the age of 80 and gradually refined down to 18, life would be perpetually joyous.” The quest for youth has captivated stories and myths throughout the ages; what if we could finally achieve it?
Recent research indicates that the GLP-1 medication Ozempic, containing semaglutide, might effectively reverse biological aging by around three years. This effect is notably observed in the brain, suggesting that medications like Ozempic could help mitigate conditions such as dementia. Additionally, it seems to reduce inflammation tied to various health concerns, including heart disease, chronic pain, and depression.
Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has changed the landscape of obesity treatment. It’s important to highlight that its anti-aging effects are particularly noted in individuals with HIV-related fat hypertrophy, though researchers believe its benefits may extend to a broader population.
Ozempic seems to have eradicated the inflammatory system associated with numerous health conditions.
It’s intriguing to consider whether we should all be using these drugs to reverse aging and reap the rewards of better health. However, we cannot assume this is wise without substantial evidence from large placebo-controlled trials involving healthy individuals. Conducting such studies may be contentious, as there are potential side effects to monitor. Moreover, when supplies are limited, it’s crucial to prioritize those in dire need.
Nevertheless, it appears that a number of healthy individuals are already utilizing these medications—largely “off-label”—without clarity on their safety. Future research should unveil a clearer understanding of these risks and provide insights into how weight loss affects muscle mass retention.
As the array of health advantages associated with these drugs continues to expand, it may be time to investigate their efficacy in healthy individuals, aiming to determine if they genuinely have the capacity to slow aging rather than speculating about youthful elixirs.
From an early age, the inevitability and finality of death profoundly shape our lives. Our capacity to comprehend the sorrow of our eventual end, as well as the loss of connection, is a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human. These understandings have fostered iconic rituals that are deeply embedded in human culture.
Historically, we have presumed that Homo sapiens is the only human species aware of the mortality inherent in living beings. However, as detailed in “What Ancient Humans Thought When They Began Burying the Dead,” archaeologists are challenging the notion that a significant emotional response to death is uniquely ours.
A particularly provocative assertion is that ancient humans, vastly different from us, established the death ritual. But evidence points to Homo naledi, an ancient human from southern Africa, whose brain was only one-third the size of ours and who lived at least 245,000 years ago. It remains unclear what drove these early humans to develop a culture surrounding death; one intriguing, though speculative, theory posits they did so to help younger members of their community cope with the loss of others.
Many controversies surround claims regarding H. naledi and their burial practices, primarily concerning the evidence’s quality. Nevertheless, since the mid-20th century, researchers have worked to bridge the behavioral gap between our species and others, propelled by studies revealing that many animals lead emotionally complex lives. Some even create their own rituals when encountering death within their communities. This adds weight to the argument that our ancestors may have developed their own cultural practices surrounding death as far back as 500,000 years ago, suggesting that H. naledi might also have established a burial tradition.
Archaeologists question whether a profound response to death is exclusively our domain.
A striking reflection of melancholy regarding H. naledi suggests that they may have aided the younger generation in confronting the weight of loss. This consideration brings into question our understanding of what it means to be human, and whether our ancestors were as unique as we assume in processing the concept of loss.
We might finally grasp why weight loss methods, such as exercise, often don’t succeed for all individuals with obesity
Science Photo Library/Alamy
Understanding obesity is proving to be more complex than previously recognized, with various types potentially stemming from different biological mechanisms.
“It transcends just body mass index and physical appearance; it delves into the biology driving it and its connection to health risks,” says Akl Fahed from the Broad Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The World Health Organization defines obesity as accumulating fat that poses a health threat. Determining if someone is obese involves calculating their Body Mass Index (BMI), which compares weight to height.
Since not all individuals with obesity experience health issues, some researchers have recently suggested introducing a “preclinical” obesity category. This approach separates individuals with medical complications related to excess fat, such as breathing difficulties or heart conditions, from those who currently show no symptoms but may develop them in the future. Yet, according to research by Fahed and his team, these classifications are still evolving.
The scientists executed genome-wide association studies involving over 2 million obese individuals, seeking connections between genetics and metrics such as BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratios, and hip circumference across diverse ancestry. They identified 743 genetic regions linked to obesity, with 86 of them being novel discoveries.
Subsequently, researchers investigated which tissues showed obesity-related effects from genetic alterations in these regions, focusing on processes like insulin production, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. They found that these genes fall into 11 distinct clusters, each linked to a unique biological pathway.
The pathways include: metabolically unhealthy obesity, metabolically healthy obesity, and six types associated with insulin secretion, immune system regulation, appetite control, body weight management, and lipid metabolism.
The team designates these clusters as “endotypes” rather than “subtypes” to highlight that while subtypes are typically mutually exclusive, endotypes reflect identifiable biological mechanisms that can coexist in individuals with varying impacts.
Using data from over 48,000 individuals, the researchers validated their endotypes through the Mass General Brigham Biobank.
“Clearly, there are numerous forms of obesity,” states Frank Greenway of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Some obese individuals may not lose weight even with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy.
Gaining a deeper understanding of obesity and its various forms might refine our approach to treatment. “Recognizing the diverse types of obesity may lead to more targeted interventions and personalized care,” says Laura Gray from the University of Sheffield, UK.
Six of the 11 endotypes relate to insulin regulation, suggesting that some interventions might be effective across multiple clusters, according to team member Min Seo Kim at the Broad Institute.
Gray suggests that there may exist more than 11 endotypes. This figure was constrained by the genetic regions currently known to affect obesity, she notes. Kim shares this sentiment, expressing the likelihood of discovering additional endotypes as genetic research progresses.
Conversely, Henriet Kirchner from the University of Lübeck in Germany believes there could be fewer than 11 endotypes. She emphasizes the need for further replication of these findings in the scientific community to enhance understanding. “The concept of obesity clusters is appealing, but it must be refined in the future to be beneficial in clinical settings,” she states.
jESUS strolls through the lush green field holding a selfie stick. The initial notes from Billie Eilish’s ethereal tune rise like a prayer. “It’s all good, Besties, this is my choice. Totally a genuine Save Humanity Arc,” he smiles. “Adore it for me,” Jesus playfully tucks Jonathan Van Ness’s hair behind his ears.
We transition to a new scene. He still wields a selfie stick, but now he’s wandering through a gritty town. “So, I told the team I had to die. Peter literally tried to gaslight me. It’s not dramatic, like Baby. This is a prophecy.”
Cut to Jesus at a candlelit feast. “It’s more of a conversation, so here I am in the middle of dinner. Judas couldn’t even hold my gaze,” he shakes his head, then turns to the camera, grinning at his insight. “Such a phony!”
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Initially, videos of this genre—a retelling of biblical tales through the lens of Americanized video blog culture—may seem bizarre and sacrilegious. However, might they represent a unique synthesis of the Holy Trinity of 2025: AI, influencer culture, and rising conservatism? Are these videos indicative of our era? Do they reflect the concerns of American conservatism? Am I being subtly influenced towards Christianity? Why do these Biblical inspirations feel oddly alluring? Why can’t I look away? What’s happening to my brain?!
My first encounter with these biblical video blogs was while I lounged in bed. When the algorithm unveiled Joseph of Nazareth, I momentarily halted my endless scrolling. “Whoa, look at that fit! Ancient rock vibes.” I wiped the drool from my chin and took a moment. Although mindlessly scrolling may not usually be a cure for mental fatigue, that day, I felt like Daniel in the lion’s den or Jonah in the whale. My commitment to scrolling brought me a sense of salvation.
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In my younger days, I flirted with religion. When my grandparents visited, I would kneel in prayer, attend Bible studies, and socialize with youth groups to meet friends and boys. I had a brief infatuation with Hillsong (I was 13 and just wanted to plan for a Friday night). a) The girl before me screamed, “I’ve been captured by the devil.” And b) I sneaked behind the church curtains to find the teenagers locked in each other’s glances.
My attitudes towards both faithfulness and spirituality have transformed. Now, my spiritual routine consists of exclamations like, “Jesus take the wheel!” or “What a deity!” as I snap photos of church art while traversing Catholic nations, sharing through Instagram later on.
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Recently, I came clean to a friend about my obsession. I was evangelizing to a fellow enthusiast. She mentioned that Jesus resembled the first influencer and that Mary and Joseph embodied the archetypal toxic vlog parents. If Judas were alive today, he would upload lengthy unedited rants on YouTube.
Momentarily, I ponder the environmental ramifications. How much water was used for Mary’s perfect dab? What resources were consumed so AI Jesus could jokingly narrate a tutorial on wine making? And how long have we been off-planet? Hold on! Shhh, the next video starts.
Adam is now seated in a podcast studio, headphones on, microphone positioned, dressed informally with leaf-patterned fabric. “So, God creates me? Boom. The first man, the parents, nothing. I… ‘Ah… I’m literally going to be everyone’s dad! When they split up, I’ll ensure they clash endlessly. Another! Another! Another! Another!”
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