Higher Education and Race: Why Do US Schools Get a Bad Rap?

Racially diverse students on a university campus illustrate the intersection of higher education and race

How has the history of college admissions shaped our current educational landscape? Why do conservative politicians deride higher education? Ijeoma Oluo’s exploration of higher education and race reveals a complex history of exclusion and change. In her book Mediocre, she examines how American universities were initially designed for wealthy white men and how this legacy continues to impact our educational system today. Continue reading for Oluo’s analysis of race and American educational institutions.

White Male Supremacy: From Cowboys to Congress (Ijeoma Oluo)

Several men in business suits in a corporate, academic, or governmental setting illustrate white male supremacy

Why do some people regard certain groups as criminals or terrorists? Why is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized? In Mediocre, Ijeoma Oluo provides an eye-opening exploration of white male supremacy in the United States. She discusses the mythology of violence, examines the monopoly on power, and uncovers the tactics used to maintain dominance. Read more to get Oluo’s take on the dynamics of white male supremacy.

How to Save Humanity: Strategies to Neutralize Existential Risks

A life preserver in outer space floating toward Earth illustrates how to save humanity

Are we on the brink of extinction? Can humanity be saved from existential threats? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores these pressing questions. He outlines potential catastrophes and offers strategies to prevent them. Ord believes we can take steps to avoid disaster and reach our full potential as a species. Read on to discover how to save humanity and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

What Is the Future of Humanity? It Depends on What We Do

The words "THE FUTURE" seen through a telescope illustrates the question, What is the future of humanity?

What is the future of humanity? Are we on the brink of disaster—or at the cusp of unprecedented progress? Toby Ord’s perspective on humanity’s potential and risks offers a thought-provoking glimpse into our species’ trajectory. He explores our remarkable achievements, technological advancements, and the looming threats that could derail our progress. Keep reading for a journey through time, technology, and the human condition as we explore what the future of humanity might hold.

Bernie Bros: How White Men Hijacked a Progressive Movement

Young men at a political rally with blue signs that say "Bernie" illustrate Bernie Bros

Who were Bernie Bros? What did they reveal about American society, and what difference did they make? Ijeoma Oluo explores the phenomenon of white men hijacking social causes in her analysis of the 2016 US Presidential election. She focuses on a group of Bernie Sanders supporters dubbed “Bernie Bros,” examining their motivations and impact on progressive politics. Keep reading to discover how Bernie Bros shed light on broader issues of race, gender, and class in social movements.

Racism in the NFL: A Case Study in White Male Mediocrity

Black professional football players in black helmets and jerseys illustrate the problem of racism in the NFL

Is racism in the NFL more pervasive than we realize? How has the sport’s evolution reflected broader societal issues? According to Ijeoma Oluo, football’s journey from an elite white college game to a multibillion-dollar industry reveals deep-rooted racial dynamics. The NFL’s history showcases both progress and persistent challenges in addressing racism and inequality. Keep reading to explore how American football mirrors societal struggles and the ongoing fight for equality in sports and beyond.

Existential Threats to Humanity: Are We on the Precipice?

A globe teetering on the edge of a cliff in desert mountains illustrates existential threats to humanity

Is humanity on the brink of extinction? Can we do anything to safeguard our future? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores existential threats to humanity, from natural disasters to man-made catastrophes. He delves into current risks such as nuclear weapons and climate change, as well as potential future dangers such as pandemics and artificial intelligence. Keep reading for a sobering yet crucial exploration of the challenges facing humanity.

The Environmental Impacts of Food Production

A cartoon of planet Earth on a dinner plate, signifying the environmental impacts of food production

How do ultra-processed foods impact the environment? What is the leading cause of global biodiversity loss? Not only are ultra-processed foods horrible for people, they’re also horrible for the environment. UPF production causes the destruction of forests, releases greenhouse gasses, and causes biodiversity loss. Here’s a closer look at the environmental impacts of food production.

Viola Davis at Juilliard: An Education She Didn’t Expect

A black woman, seen in silhouette from behind, on a theatre stage looking into the spotlight

How did Viola Davis’s journey to Juilliard begin? What challenges did she face as a Black student at the prestigious institution? Viola Davis’s time at Juilliard was a pivotal moment in her acting career. Her experience there shaped her perspective on art and identity, leading to a transformative trip to Gambia and a breakthrough performance. Read on to discover how Davis’s Juilliard experience influenced her growth as an artist and her views on representation in the arts.