How wise are crowds?
By melding economics and engineering, researchers show that as social networks get larger, they usually get better at sorting fact from fiction.
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An unexpected twist in cancer metabolism
A cancer-cell quirk could be exploited to develop new drugs that starve tumors.
On the war path
In his new book Cultures of War, MIT historian John Dower examines the militarism that has helped define the United States in the contemporary age
3 questions: P vs. NP
After glancing over a 100-page proof that claimed to solve the biggest problem in computer science, Scott Aaronson bet his house that it was wrong. Why?
Financial impacts of ‘cap and trade’
Analysis shows that, contrary to some claims, proposed legislation to limit carbon emissions would not disadvantage those with lower incomes.
Bursting a bubble?
A generally accepted theory explaining the frequent eruptions at Italy’s Stromboli volcano is called into question by new research.
Ecological balancing act
Phytoplankton diversity depends on balance between competition and the ocean’s physical dynamics, new research suggests
Unraveling black hole spin
Retrograde spin of supermassive black holes may create jets that control galaxy evolution
3 Questions: Steven Spear on Toyota’s troubles
With the vaunted Japanese automaker recalling millions of cars, the MIT senior lecturer explains what went wrong
Powering cube satellites
An electric propulsion technology for miniature satellites aims to give them more mobility — and may eventually allow them to take on deep-space missions.
Rethinking artificial intelligence
Broad-based MIT project aims to reinvent AI for a new era. By going back and fixing mistakes, researchers hope to produce ‘co-processors’ for the human mind.
Fine-tuned laser
A wholly new approach to tuning a laser’s frequency brings us a step closer to airport scanners that can distinguish aspirin from explosives.
Engineering a cure
Biological engineering professor Linda Griffith launches a new center to study endometriosis and other gynecological diseases.