While we consider the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives delve into complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. While several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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