Sign in Subscribe

arts + culture

Why do we say ‘OK’?

Why do we say ‘OK’?

(TEMPE, AZ) Why do we say ‘OK’? Of all the words in the English language, the word “OK” is pretty new: It’s only been used for about 180 years. Although it’s become the most spoken word on the planet, it’s kind of a strange word. Sometimes it’

We tested the new World Cup ball – this is what you need to know about how it will fly, dip and swerve

We tested the new World Cup ball – this is what you need to know about how it will fly, dip and swerve

Every four years, the men’s World Cup delivers some certainties. The pitch dimensions are tightly regulated, offside is signaled with a flag, and referees end the match with a blast of a whistle. But one key piece of equipment is changed on purpose: the ball. Adidas, which has supplied

Looksmaxxing isn’t just a TikTok trend – it often reflects severe body image issues in teen boys and young men

Looksmaxxing isn’t just a TikTok trend – it often reflects severe body image issues in teen boys and young men

(ANN ARBOR, MI) Punishing regimens of facial exercises. Intentional starvation. Reshaping the jawline or cheekbones by smashing them with a hammer or chisel. These are some of the more extreme behaviors in a practice called looksmaxxing – an effort to maximize one’s looks at all costs – that’s attracting an

Why are buttons and zippers on different sides of men’s and women’s clothes?

Why are buttons and zippers on different sides of men’s and women’s clothes?

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Why are zippers on different sides of male and female jackets? – Agrima, age 13, Delhi, India Imagine you’re at a clothing

5 reasons Stephen Colbert is one of the most important satirists in American history

5 reasons Stephen Colbert is one of the most important satirists in American history

(STATE COLLEGE, PENN.) Stephen Colbert’s final episode as host of “The Late Show” on May 21, 2026, won’t mark the end of his career. But as a scholar of political satire, I think it offers a chance to reflect on the lasting impact of his comedy, which has

As goes CBS Radio News, so goes the idea that news media should serve the public interest

As goes CBS Radio News, so goes the idea that news media should serve the public interest

(STATE COLLEGE, PENN.) When CBS Radio News goes silent on May 22, 2026, Americans will lose access to news programming they’ve tuned into from their living rooms, kitchens and cars for nearly a century. The once-bipartisan idea that the nation’s media should exist to serve democracy continues

Antonia Bembo fled Venice to escape her abusive husband – over three centuries later, her opera finally takes the stage

Antonia Bembo fled Venice to escape her abusive husband – over three centuries later, her opera finally takes the stage

The Paris Opera has staged iconic works like “Don Carlos” and “Les Troyens,” along with celebrated ballets such as “Les Indes Galantes” and “The Rite of Spring.” But you’d be forgiven for not having heard of Antonia Bembo, whose 1707 opera “Ercole Amante” – “Hercules in Love” – will be staged