Surprising Science — January 30, 2009

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Abstract illustration of a figure reaching for a yellow sphere on the left, with colored overlapping circles and concentric arcs—evoking themes of physics and consciousness—set against a vibrant multicolored gradient background.

Starts With A Bang

Does physics truly have anything to say about consciousness?

Many, from neuroscientists to philosophers to anesthesiologists, have claimed to understand consciousness. Do physicists? Does anyone?

A healthcare worker wearing gloves administers an injection with a syringe into a person's upper arm, reminding us that when it comes to vaccines, do your own research and stay informed.

Starts With A Bang

What to know about vaccines in the do-your-own-research era

For centuries, vaccines have been the top life-saving, expert medical intervention known to humans. How can individuals make the right call?

Starts With A Bang

The 6 strongest materials on Earth are harder than diamonds

For millennia, diamonds were the hardest known material, but they only rank at #7 on the current list. Can you guess which material is #1?

A man in a suit holds up a Hurricane Dorian forecast map in an office, tracing the storm’s projected path and intensity over several southeastern U.S. states and the Bahamas—echoing the urgent clarity of a 1938 science manifesto defending democracy.

Starts With A Bang

This 1938 pro-science manifesto defended democracy against fascism

As democracy recedes and fascism rises in the USA and around the world in 2025, history provides a lesson in how science can fight fascism.

Illustration of a thumbs up and thumbs down, resembling a like button and dislike button, on a black background, both partially covered with red scribble marks.

Business

The future of the “like” button: Thumbs up or thumbs down?

Will platforms continue to offer the like button as an all-purpose tool — or will each of the button’s various functions exist in new forms?

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