Science & Society
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Animals
A new exhibit invites you into the ‘Secret World of Elephants’
As elephants face survival threats, the American Museum of Natural History highlights their pivotal role in shaping landscapes — and their resilience.
- Paleontology
The real culprit in a 19th century dinosaur whodunit is finally revealed
Contrary to the stories handed down among paleontologists, creationism wasn’t to blame for the destruction of Central Park’s dinosaurs.
- Science & Society
Most people say self-control is the same as willpower. Researchers disagree
Psychologists say self-control is about planning ahead to avoid relying on willpower in the moment. Laypeople see things differently.
- Psychology
Here’s how to give a good gift, according to science
Gifting researcher Julian Givi outlines common mistakes gift givers make and how science can help us avoid those costly errors.
- Life
The Endangered Species Act is turning 50. Has it succeeded?
After 50 years, this landmark law has kept many species alive — but few wild populations have recovered enough to come off the “endangered” list.
- Science & Society
These are the most popular Science News stories of 2023
Science News drew over 21 million visitors to our website this year. Here’s a look back at the most-read and most-watched stories of 2023.
- Science & Society
History buffs will dig these 5 science stories from 2023
This year, new science threw the lives (and deaths) of Beethoven and other historical figures into sharp relief.
- Climate
COP28 nations agreed to ‘transition’ from fossil fuels. That’s too slow, experts say
COP28 ended with a historic climate agreement to begin moving away from fossil fuels, but stopped short of mandating phasing them out.
- Health & Medicine
Why weight-loss drugs became more popular than ever this year
Ozempic and related drugs can drastically reduce body weight, and more potent versions are on the way. But questions remain about who should take them.
- Artificial Intelligence
Generative AI grabbed headlines this year. Here’s why and what’s next
Prominent artificial intelligence researcher Melanie Mitchell explains why generative AI matters and looks ahead to the technology’s future.
- Environment
Landscape Explorer shows how much the American West has changed
The online tool stitches together historical images into a map that’s helping land managers make decisions about preservation and restoration.
- Science & Society
These are Science News’ favorite books of 2023
Books about deadly fungi, the science of preventing roadkill, trips to other planets and the true nature of math grabbed our attention this year.
