Representation gaps and the rise of populism
Shutterstock/Alejo Bernal The rise of rightwing populists continues across the west, leaving many wondering how mainstream parties can respond. Part of the picture is the failure of political parties to meet voters views...

How The Sims’ endless customisation fostered one of gaming’s most diverse player communities
Katy Perry is in a recording booth. She turns to the camera, smiles and begins to sing: Badipsa frooby noop. As if to confirm that we didnt mishear her, she repeats Badipsa frooby noop and gives the camera a thumbs up. The...

How The Sims accidentally invented the cosy game genre
Ooboo Vroose Baa Dooo! Thats happy birthday in Simlish, the delightfully nonsensical language of The Sims. The life simulation video game franchise turns 25 this year, making me feel officially old. Like many others, I...
While plastic dominates human consumption, the global economy will remain hooked on fossil fuels
Plastic waste in the Maldives. MOHAMED ABDULRAHEEM/Shutterstock In early December 2024, hopes for a landmark global treaty to curb plastic pollution were dashed as negotiations in South Korea stalled. Leading the campaign...

Presidential smiles: the untold story of teeth in the White House
When Donald Trump joined Elon Musk for a live interview on X (formerly Twitter) late last year, the conversation covered a range of significant topics: his near-assassination, Bidens withdrawal from the race, and the...
Why drying clothes indoors could put your health at risk
Magic Lens/Shutterstock Hanging the washing out to dry in the garden has been a rare sight these last few months, with winter storms bringing freezing temperatures and 100mph gusts of wind. But does the way we dry our...
How to argue without falling out – an expert guide
Pormezz / Shutterstock To disagree is an inescapable part of being human. We simply are not all the same. But whereas a small disagreement may remain amiable, particularly over text or online where we can edit our...