Cracking the code
MIT sociologist’s book takes an insider look at investment banking and the high-risk trades that can spin out of control.
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Wisdom of crowds
In countries that lack financial records, how can we tell who is truly poor? An innovative study suggests: Ask the neighbors.
In Profile: Kenneth Oye
A political scientist aims to help governments assess the potential risks of new technologies.
When it pays to spend on health care
MIT study shows that spending more on emergency-room patients saves lives.
Face value
Study shows that low-information voters are most likely to be swayed by candidates’ appearances.
Medicaid’s impact, finally measured
Unique study shows the effects of health insurance program: More treatment and fewer financial shocks for the poor, more bills paid for hospitals and doctors.
Hippie days
How a handful of countercultural scientists changed the course of physics in the 1970s and helped open up the frontier of quantum information.
3 Questions: David Singer on the Greek Euro-tragedy
Political scientist David Singer explains why Greece seemingly can’t live with the Euro, and can’t live without it.
3 Questions: Dennis Frenchman on making cities sustainable
How the form of urban spaces adds to the energy they use.
Wind, war and weathermen
How a Swedish bon vivant let MIT introduce modern meteorology to America — just in time to help the Allies win World War II.
3 Questions: Amy Glasmeier on rebuilding after disaster hits
From tornadoes to flooding, nature has taken a heavy toll in America this year. What are the challenges cities like Joplin and Tuscaloosa will face while rebuilding?
Taxation without documentation
New study shows ‘informal taxation’ in developing countries is far greater than suspected, supporting public works — and adding a burden for the poor.
Facing the future
Wael Ghonim, the Google executive and lauded online activist behind Egypt’s democracy movement, urges ‘action’ during a time of uncertainty.
Tracking the flow of knowledge
Study shows scientists’ location influences how widely their work is read and used for innovations.