The anthropology of humanitarianism
Anthropologist Erica James examines the effectiveness of aid to those on the margins of society.
Search Stories
A “wimpy” dwarf fossil galaxy reveals new facts about early universe
Faintest galaxy ever detected illuminates unusual aspects of the universe’s early evolution.
How a health care plan quickly lowered infant mortality
Study: Improved hospital access lowered infant death rate among Thailand’s poor within a year.
What’s the future of wealth — and inequality?
At MIT, “rock star” economist Thomas Piketty presents, defends work on inequality.
3 Questions: Michael Greenstone on the experimental method in environmental economics
MIT economist makes the case for new quasi-experiments as a way of studying environmental issues.
Beneath the skyline
At MIT, politicians, planners, and designers debate the future of infrastructure.
How widespread is tax evasion?
New study puts a cost on "round-tripping," a method investors use to avoid the tax collector.
New ‘switch’ could power quantum computing
A light lattice that traps atoms may help scientists build networks of quantum information transmitters.
In the cloud: How coughs and sneezes float farther than you think
Novel study uncovers the way coughs and sneezes stay airborne for long distances.
A scholar who thinks globally and acts locally
Political scientist David Singer produces innovative research on international financial policy.
3 Questions: John Tirman on the warming U.S.-Iran relationship
New book examines misunderstandings as two nations try to work out a permanent deal on nuclear weapons.
What’s next for Ukraine?
At MIT, experts discuss the long-term implications of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict in Crimea.
Study: Attractive men fare best in gaining venture capital
Women, less-attractive men lag in the effort to find financial backing for startups.
Valerie Jarrett: Greater inclusion in education drives innovation, prosperity
White House advisor, in MIT’s Compton Lecture, makes case for social diversity in education.