How to avoid a “winner’s curse” for social programs
When interventions or policies perform well in studies, they may disappoint later on. An MIT economist’s tools can help planners recognize this trap.
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A chronicler of the biotech boom
MIT historian of science Robin Wolfe Scheffler takes a close look at the progress of biomedical research in the U.S.
Climate action, here and now
Associate Professor David Hsu examines how people and cities can fight climate change locally — and how MIT can do the same.
Does “food as medicine” make a big dent in diabetes?
Study of rigorous trial shows mixed results, suggests need to keep examining how nutrition can combat a pervasive disease.
Carlo Ratti named curator of 2025 Venice Biennale Architecture Exhibition
Professor of the practice and innovative scholar of urban design and dynamics will oversee leading global showcase for architectural work.
Institute Professor Emeritus Robert Solow, pathbreaking economist, dies at age 99
Nobel-winning scholar changed his field, taught generations of students, and helped make MIT a global leader in economics research.
Fengshui in the Qing Dynasty courtroom
Historian Tristan Brown’s new book tells the overlooked story of an ancient Chinese concept and its role in shaping the country’s law.
Study: Colon cancer screenings are more effective than previously understood
By reevaluating existing data, researchers find the procedure is even more valuable than consensus had indicated.
MIT group releases white papers on governance of AI
The series aims to help policymakers create better oversight of AI in society.
3 Questions: Wiebke Denecke on a landmark project for Chinese literature
The Hsu-Tang Library of Classical Chinese Literature brings three millennia of classic texts to the world, in bilingual editions.
Q&A: Phillip Sharp and Amy Brand on the future of open-access publishing
An MIT-based white paper identifies leading questions in the quest to make open-access publications sustainable.
Judgment, reason, and the university
MIT’s Malick Ghachem extends the “Dialogues across Differences” lecture series with a talk about the past and present of university politics.
How do reasonable people disagree?
A study by philosopher Kevin Dorst explains how political differences can result from a process of “rational polarization.”
Foreign policy scholars examine the China-Russia relationship
An expert panel discussed the strengths, and limits, of the alignment between the two world powers and U.S. rivals.
Writing code, and decoding the world
Héctor Beltrán’s new book examines hackers in Mexico, whose work leads them to reflect on the roles they play in society.