Online gaming communities could provide a lifeline for isolated young men − new research

For young men who struggle with mental health or lack connections in real life, chat and community features of online games can be a source of support.

Tyler Prochnow, Assistant Professor of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University • conversation
Aug. 22, 2023 ~5 min

Are we alone in the universe? 4 essential reads on potential contact with aliens

Whistleblower allegations that the government possesses UFOs may not be backed up by public physical evidence, but some argue that listening for extraterrestrial life is the first phase of contact.

Mary Magnuson, Assistant Science Editor • conversation
Aug. 4, 2023 ~8 min


Breast cancer awareness campaigns too often overlook those with metastatic breast cancer – here's how they can do better

October is awash in seas of pink T-shirts, balloons and ribbons in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But this messaging fails to recognize people who are not cured of the disease.

Rachel Kraus, Professor of Sociology, Ball State University • conversation
Oct. 5, 2022 ~10 min

Climate change: radical activists benefit social movements – history shows why

Direct action can make the demands of a mainstream movement seem reasonable.

Heather Alberro, Lecturer in Global Sustainable Development, Nottingham Trent University • conversation
May 24, 2022 ~6 min

I'm a Black sociologist, and a mom – by listening to other Black mothers, I've learned about their pandemic struggles and strengths

As the world locked down and a country’s racial reckoning heated up, this social scientist refined her approach to studying the lives of Black moms.

Loren Henderson, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County • conversation
April 29, 2022 ~9 min

New Englanders support more offshore wind power – just don’t send it to New York

The regionalism that fuels the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry is also found in U.S. attitudes about energy production, a new study shows. That could have repercussions for the renewable energy transition.

Michael Ferguson, Assistant Professor in Recreation Management and Policy, University of New Hampshire • conversation
April 29, 2022 ~7 min

Your sense of privacy evolved over millennia – that puts you at risk today but could improve technology tomorrow

You have a finely honed sense of privacy in the physical world. But the sights and sounds you encounter online don’t help you detect risks and can even lull you into a false sense of security.

Alessandro Acquisti, Professor of Information Technology and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University • conversation
Feb. 11, 2022 ~8 min

Pandemic, war and environmental disaster push scientists to deliver quick answers – here's what it takes to do good science under pressure

Scientists can be asked to help find solutions during disasters. A study of how archaeologists worked on the problem of looting during the Syrian war offers lessons for science done during crisis.

Michelle D. Fabiani, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, University of New Haven • conversation
Dec. 14, 2021 ~8 min


Breast cancer awareness campaigns can do a better job supporting women who've received a stage 4 diagnosis, instead of focusing only on early detection and 'beating cancer'

A diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer means having cancer for the rest of one’s life – a situation with very different needs and concerns compared to earlier stages of the disease.

Rachel Kraus, Professor of Sociology, Ball State University • conversation
Oct. 29, 2021 ~9 min

Fracking takes a toll on mental health as drilling and truck traffic rattle neighborhoods

Living near oil and gas production can affect mental health, driving stress and feelings of depression.

Stephanie Malin, Associate Professor of Sociology; Co-Founder and Steering Committee Member, Center for Environmental Justice at CSU, Colorado State University • conversation
Oct. 22, 2020 ~8 min

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