Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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