As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles shines. Such pieces delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a key force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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