Ed Yong: Umwelt Reveals How Animals Perceive the World

Two starfish on the beach illustrate the concept of umwelt and how animals perceive the world

What does it mean when scientists say that each animal lives in its own sensory bubble? How do animals experience the world in ways that humans can’t even imagine? Ed Yong’s exploration of umwelt in his book An Immense World reveals the fascinating ways different species perceive reality. From dogs that can smell the past to elephants that feel vibrations through their feet, animals possess extraordinary sensory abilities that shape their unique experience of the world. Keep reading to discover how Ed Yong’s umwelt concept illuminates how animals perceive the world through senses both familiar and foreign to humans.

Eliminating Taxes on Tips: Is It a Viable Plan?

A black jar labeled "TIPS" on the counter in a cafe illustrates eliminating taxes on tips

Why are presidential candidates suddenly interested in making tips tax-free? What potential problems could arise from eliminating taxes on gratuities? Both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris proposed eliminating taxes on tips as part of their 2024 campaign platforms. Their proposals aim to increase take-home pay for millions of service industry workers, but economists warn of significant challenges and potential consequences. Keep reading to discover the complex implications of eliminating taxes on tips and how this policy could affect workers, businesses, and the broader economy.

Perspectives on Gender: Conservative vs. Progressive Viewpoints

Two men having a spirited debate while an audience looks on illustrates different perspectives on gender

What shapes our understanding of gender in modern society? How do different cultural and political viewpoints influence the ongoing debate about gender identity and expression? Today’s conversations about gender roles and identity have become increasingly complex and polarized. From traditional viewpoints to progressive ideologies, various perspectives on gender continue to shape laws, social norms, and personal experiences across the globe. Keep reading to explore how different perspectives on gender impact our communities and what these viewpoints mean for the future of human rights and social equality.

Animal Echolocation, Electrolocation, & Magnetoreception

Sea turtles swimming in the ocean illustrate animal echolocation, electrolocation, and magnetoreception

What enables bats and dolphins to navigate and hunt with such precision in complete darkness? How do animals like sea turtles find their way back to specific beaches across hundreds of miles of ocean? In An Immense World, Ed Yong explores animal echolocation, electrolocation, and magnetoreception—sensory abilities that help creatures navigate their environment. These extraordinary capabilities reveal how different species experience and interact with their surroundings. Keep reading to discover how animals use sound, electricity, and magnetic fields to perceive their world in ways humans can barely imagine.

A History of Gender Identity: The Norms & Challenges to Them

Activists with signs that say "#tradwife" and "PRIDE" illustrate the history of gender identity

What role has history played in shaping our understanding of gender? How have different societies approached gender identity throughout time? The history of gender identity reveals fascinating variations across cultures and eras, from strict binary systems to more fluid interpretations. Modern perspectives on gender expression emerged from centuries of evolution in social thought, scientific research, and cultural movements. Keep reading to explore how ancient civilizations, revolutionary thinkers, and contemporary society have contributed to our understanding of gender identity and expression.

Do Animals Feel Pain? Here’s What Scientists Know (Ed Yong)

A frog on a lily pad illustrates the question, "Do animals feel pain?"

What happens in an animal’s body when it encounters something harmful? Do animals feel pain? How do different species process pain? Ed Yong’s book An Immense World explores the complex question of whether and how animals feel pain. From naked mole rats that don’t react to acid to fish that show signs of distress after injury, the animal kingdom presents a wide range of responses to potentially harmful stimuli. Keep reading to discover the surprising science behind how different creatures experience pain and what this means for our ethical treatment of animals.

Gender Fluidity in History: Nonconformity in Ancient & Modern Times

The deity Ishtar with masculine and feminine traits illustrates gender fluidity in history

What does it mean to be gender-fluid in today’s world? How have different cultures throughout history viewed and accepted diverse gender identities? Gender expression and identity have evolved significantly across time and cultures. From ancient Mesopotamian deities to modern social movements, the concept of gender fluidity has shaped societies in fascinating ways. Keep reading to explore gender fluidity in history and discover how past perspectives continue to influence our modern understanding of gender identity and expression.

The Sense of Touch in Animals: 3 Ways They’re Not Like Humans

A harbor seal swimming under the water illustrates the sense of touch in animals

What mysterious ways do animals experience touch beyond direct contact? How do creatures from wasps to elephants use touch to survive and thrive? Ed Yong’s fascinating book An Immense World reveals how the sense of touch in animals extends far beyond what humans can imagine. From detecting vibrations in the ground to sensing distortions in water, animals use remarkable methods to perceive their environment and connect with others. Keep reading to discover the extraordinary touch abilities that help creatures navigate their world, find food, escape danger, and build relationships.

The Sense of Hearing in Animals: How They Hear What We Can’t

Two whales swimming in the ocean near the surface of the water illustrate the sense of hearing in animals

What makes hearing different from our other senses? How do animals use sound in ways humans can’t even imagine? In An Immense World, Ed Yong explores the remarkable sense of hearing in animals, revealing capabilities far beyond human perception. From birds detecting subtle variations in song to whales mapping ocean floors with sound, the animal kingdom showcases extraordinary auditory abilities that help creatures survive and thrive. Keep reading to discover fascinating examples of how animals perceive sound and learn how their unique abilities are helping scientists develop better solutions for human hearing problems.

Ramaswamy & Musk’s $2 Trillion Budget Cut: Can It Be Done?

Split image with Elon Musk in front of an American flag and Vivek Ramaswamy speaking at a Trump/Vance campaign event

What would it take to slash $2 trillion from the U.S. federal budget? Can Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy actually achieve this ambitious goal? The proposed Department of Government Efficiency, led by Musk and Ramaswamy, aims to cut 30% of federal spending through agency consolidation, workforce reduction, and regulatory streamlining. While Ramaswamy and Musk’s $2 trillion target seems staggering, their track records provide some hope. Read on to discover why experts are divided on this bold plan to reshape US government spending.