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May 2024: Science History from 50, 100 and 150 Years Ago
Pavlov’s dogs; Mercury’s dark side
Fossil and Living Birds Reveal the Dazzling Biology of Feathers
Reducing noise improves health, JWST’s galaxies change astronomy, and there’s new hope for people with prostate cancer
The Dark Side of Nostalgia for Wild, Untouched Places
A novel about the tensions between nature and modernity, animal social networks, and more books out now
In Matters of Scientific Debate, Follow the Houdini Rule
Scientific expertise is typically limited and specific. When evaluating scientific claims, look to the relevant experts
‘Smart Gloves’ Teach Piano Playing through Touch
A high-tech pair of gloves can help make learning instruments and other hands-on activities easier
We Need to Make Cities Less Car-Dependent
Reducing the need for car travel is better for health, the environment and public safety
Walks in Green Parks Mean Stronger Immune Systems and Better Mental Health
Contact with nature improves physical and mental health, but greenery is not easily reached by all
How Schools Can Help Kids Reduce Racism and Prejudice
Making schools more welcoming for all can make for a fair and just society
How Our Thoughts Shape the Way Spoken Words Evolve
What makes a word survive or go extinct?
This Tiny Fish Makes an Ear-Blasting Screech for Love
A rice-grain-size fish screams louder than a jackhammer—and we have a lot to learn from its minuscule brain
How Plant Intelligence Can Soothe Climate Anxiety
In a new book, the wisdom of plants is a balm for our changing planet
Contributors to Scientific American’s May 2024 Issue
Writers, artists, photographers and researchers share the stories behind the stories
Why Feathers Are One of Evolution’s Cleverest Inventions
Fossil and living birds reveal the dazzling biology of feathers
A ‘Computer’ Built from DNA Can Find Patterns in Photographs
Artificial DNA sorts images like a neural network does
Unraveling the Secrets of This Weird Beetle’s 48-Hour Clock
New research examines the molecular machinery behind a beetle’s strange biological cycle
Readers Respond to the January 2024 Issue
Letters to the editors for the January 2024 issue of Scientific American
Scientists Discover Extensive Brain-Wave Patterns
Certain brain layers specialize in particular waves—which might aid understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders
Fiddler Crabs Unleash Special Vibrations to Attract Mates—And Deter Foes
Social context shapes how fiddler crabs communicate by vibrating the ground underneath their burrows