Who Was Seneca? Philosopher, Playwright, & Political Aide

An ancient Roman philosopher, seen from behind

Who was Seneca? How did an ancient Roman become one of history’s most influential thinkers? Why did a man of immense wealth and power champion a philosophy of simplicity and self-discipline? Lucius Annaeus Seneca’s journey from philosopher to imperial advisor shaped some of history’s most profound wisdom, preserved in his timeless work Letters From a Stoic. His life story weaves through the dramatic rise and fall of Roman emperors, offering insights that still resonate today. Keep reading to discover how one man’s struggles with power, wealth, and wisdom created a legacy that spans two thousand years.

Mounting 23andMe Problems Point to an Uncertain Future

People watching downward-trending graph of a stock price illustrate problems with a DNA testing company

Is your genetic data truly secure with direct-to-consumer DNA testing companies? What happens to your DNA information when these companies face financial troubles or security breaches? 23andMe’s problems of late highlight the risks of entrusting sensitive genetic information to private companies. From data breaches affecting millions of customers to financial struggles threatening the company’s survival, the situation raises serious concerns about genetic privacy and security. Keep reading to learn about 23andMe’s recent problems and what they mean for the future of consumer genetic testing.

The Google Antitrust Ruling: A Pivotal Moment in Regulation

A magnifying glass magnifying "Google" on the Google search homepage illustrates the Google antitrust ruling

What happens when a tech giant violates antitrust laws? How might the Google antitrust ruling reshape the future of online search and digital competition? The landmark ruling against Google’s search business monopoly marks a pivotal moment in tech industry regulation. The decision challenges Google’s exclusive agreements and default search deals, potentially opening doors for competitors while reshaping how millions access information online. Keep reading to discover how this historic ruling could transform the tech landscape, impact digital advertising, and set new precedents for regulating big tech companies.

Lumber Prices in 2024: What Happened and Why (Analysis)

A stack of lumber at a home construction site illustrates lumber prices in 2024

What’s behind the dramatic 75% drop in lumber prices since their 2021 peak? How will these price changes affect homeowners and builders in the coming months? The lumber market has experienced unprecedented shifts, from pandemic-driven highs to record lows in 2024. These fluctuations have forced sawmills to adapt, created opportunities for buyers, and reshaped the construction industry landscape. Keep reading to understand what happened with lumber prices in 2024 and what these changes mean for your next building project and the market as a whole.

The Mortgage Refinancing Boom of 2024: Causes & Impact

An upscale house with a boxy design and nice landscaping illustrates the US mortgage refinancing boom that started in 2024

What does the current refinancing boom mean for homeowners? Why are mortgage applications hitting their highest levels since 2022? The refinancing surge of late 2024 marks a significant shift in the mortgage landscape, driven by falling interest rates and the Federal Reserve’s recent policy changes. Homeowners across the country are seizing opportunities to lower monthly payments, reduce loan terms, or tap into home equity for various financial needs. Keep reading to explore the factors driving this refinancing boom and how it’s affecting the mortgage market.

The Fed’s Interest Rate Cut (September 2024): Is It Helping?

The Federal Reserve building in Washington, DC, illustrates the Fed's interest rate cut (September 2024)

Why did the Fed cut interest rates in September? When can borrowers expect to see meaningful relief in their monthly payments? The Fed’s interest rate cut (September 2024) marked a significant shift in Federal Reserve policy, coming after years of aggressive rate hikes to fight inflation. While this reduction signals progress in the battle against rising prices, many Americans still face financial challenges from lingering inflation effects. Keep reading to learn how interest rate cuts in September 2024 and beyond could affect your financial future, from mortgage payments to car loans.

The History of Burnout: Which Generation Had It Worse?

An artistic rendering of an exhausted man sitting at a computer desk looking burned out from work

How has society’s understanding of exhaustion evolved over centuries? What makes today’s digital workplace uniquely exhausting? While we’ve suffered from exhaustion throughout history, today’s version is different. Often seen as workplace burnout, it’s exacerbated by digital overload and the blurring of lines between work and home life. Continue reading to learn about the history of burnout and what can be done to lessen the severity.

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.

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.

The Presidential Power of the Pardon: A Dramatic Shift Over Time

The Presidential Power of the Pardon: A Dramatic Shift Over Time

Why did America’s founders give presidents such broad pardon powers? How has the presidential power of the pardon evolved from a tool of justice to an instrument of political favor? The story of presidential pardons in America reveals a dramatic shift from their original purpose of promoting national unity and showing mercy to their modern use as political weapons. From George Washington’s pardons after the Whiskey Rebellion to Joe Biden’s unprecedented pardon of his son, these executive decisions have shaped American history in profound ways. Keep reading to explore the fascinating transformation of America’s most sweeping executive power and its