Why Is TikTok Dangerous? Why You Can’t Trust Its News Feed

A concerned-looking man holding a mobile phone illustrates the question, "Why is TikTok dangerous?"

Why is TikTok dangerous? What’s really happening when millions of people get their news from the platform? How can it shape our understanding of world events without us even realizing it? TikTok’s evolution from an entertainment platform to a primary news source for Gen Z has sparked intense debate among journalists and media experts. The platform’s ability to deliver quick, engaging content comes with serious concerns about misinformation, bias, and potential manipulation. Keep reading to discover why TikTok is dangerous as a news source and what that means for the future of information sharing.

Sensory Pollution Is Fatal to Animals—But We Can Change That

A brightly-lighted city at night, seen from above, illustrates sensory pollution

Why does artificial light cause so many animal deaths? What makes human-generated noise so destructive to wildlife? In An Immense World, Ed Yong explores how sensory pollution devastates animal populations worldwide. From bright city lights confusing sea turtle hatchlings to shipping noise disrupting whale communication, human activities are overwhelming animals’ senses in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Keep reading to discover how we can protect wildlife from sensory pollution and help preserve Earth’s remarkable biodiversity.

Should You Invest in Gold? Navigating the Current Price Surge

Gold bars illustrate the question, "Should you invest in gold?"

What drives gold prices to record-breaking highs in today’s market? Why do financial experts remain cautious about gold as a long-term investment strategy? Should you invest in gold? Gold has captured investors’ attention as prices soar past $2,600 per ounce, driven by global economic shifts, geopolitical tensions, and changing central bank strategies. Yet, despite its recent performance, gold has historically delivered lower returns than stocks and comes with unique investment challenges. Keep reading to learn whether you should invest in this precious metal and how it might fit into your financial strategy.

Ed Yong: Umwelt Reveals How Animals Perceive the World

Two starfish on the beach illustrate the concept of umwelt and how animals perceive the world

What does it mean when scientists say that each animal lives in its own sensory bubble? How do animals experience the world in ways that humans can’t even imagine? Ed Yong’s exploration of umwelt in his book An Immense World reveals the fascinating ways different species perceive reality. From dogs that can smell the past to elephants that feel vibrations through their feet, animals possess extraordinary sensory abilities that shape their unique experience of the world. Keep reading to discover how Ed Yong’s umwelt concept illuminates how animals perceive the world through senses both familiar and foreign to humans.

Eliminating Taxes on Tips: Is It a Viable Plan?

A black jar labeled "TIPS" on the counter in a cafe illustrates eliminating taxes on tips

Why are presidential candidates suddenly interested in making tips tax-free? What potential problems could arise from eliminating taxes on gratuities? Both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris proposed eliminating taxes on tips as part of their 2024 campaign platforms. Their proposals aim to increase take-home pay for millions of service industry workers, but economists warn of significant challenges and potential consequences. Keep reading to discover the complex implications of eliminating taxes on tips and how this policy could affect workers, businesses, and the broader economy.

Perspectives on Gender: Conservative vs. Progressive Viewpoints

Two men having a spirited debate while an audience looks on illustrates different perspectives on gender

What shapes our understanding of gender in modern society? How do different cultural and political viewpoints influence the ongoing debate about gender identity and expression? Today’s conversations about gender roles and identity have become increasingly complex and polarized. From traditional viewpoints to progressive ideologies, various perspectives on gender continue to shape laws, social norms, and personal experiences across the globe. Keep reading to explore how different perspectives on gender impact our communities and what these viewpoints mean for the future of human rights and social equality.

Animal Echolocation, Electrolocation, & Magnetoreception

Sea turtles swimming in the ocean illustrate animal echolocation, electrolocation, and magnetoreception

What enables bats and dolphins to navigate and hunt with such precision in complete darkness? How do animals like sea turtles find their way back to specific beaches across hundreds of miles of ocean? In An Immense World, Ed Yong explores animal echolocation, electrolocation, and magnetoreception—sensory abilities that help creatures navigate their environment. These extraordinary capabilities reveal how different species experience and interact with their surroundings. Keep reading to discover how animals use sound, electricity, and magnetic fields to perceive their world in ways humans can barely imagine.

A History of Gender Identity: The Norms & Challenges to Them

Activists with signs that say "#tradwife" and "PRIDE" illustrate the history of gender identity

What role has history played in shaping our understanding of gender? How have different societies approached gender identity throughout time? The history of gender identity reveals fascinating variations across cultures and eras, from strict binary systems to more fluid interpretations. Modern perspectives on gender expression emerged from centuries of evolution in social thought, scientific research, and cultural movements. Keep reading to explore how ancient civilizations, revolutionary thinkers, and contemporary society have contributed to our understanding of gender identity and expression.

Do Animals Feel Pain? Here’s What Scientists Know (Ed Yong)

A frog on a lily pad illustrates the question, "Do animals feel pain?"

What happens in an animal’s body when it encounters something harmful? Do animals feel pain? How do different species process pain? Ed Yong’s book An Immense World explores the complex question of whether and how animals feel pain. From naked mole rats that don’t react to acid to fish that show signs of distress after injury, the animal kingdom presents a wide range of responses to potentially harmful stimuli. Keep reading to discover the surprising science behind how different creatures experience pain and what this means for our ethical treatment of animals.

Gender Fluidity in History: Nonconformity in Ancient & Modern Times

The deity Ishtar with masculine and feminine traits illustrates gender fluidity in history

What does it mean to be gender-fluid in today’s world? How have different cultures throughout history viewed and accepted diverse gender identities? Gender expression and identity have evolved significantly across time and cultures. From ancient Mesopotamian deities to modern social movements, the concept of gender fluidity has shaped societies in fascinating ways. Keep reading to explore gender fluidity in history and discover how past perspectives continue to influence our modern understanding of gender identity and expression.