The Highlight

I want to believe I can make a positive impact from the inside, but maybe I’m deluding myself.

From Dunkin’ deodorant to Sabrina Carpenter perfume, smelling good isn’t enough — it’s all about smelling edible.

The “cradle” vs. “convert” fight comes to Washington.

California researchers grapple with losing a landscape they love in real time.

Democrats’ search for a savior is doomed. But that might be for the best.

Tiny, lovely books for luxurious reading, and other recommendations.

It’s the 21st century — instant bank transfers should be the norm everywhere.

Science depends on animal testing. But the work comes at a steep, hidden cost.

Boredom can be a powerful force — if you know how to interpret it.

America is still the most influential country in the world, for better or worse.

Why hasn’t anyone told America’s youngest adults about drinking etiquette?

Why other people’s approval is so intoxicating.

Experts were wrong about overpopulation before. Could they be wrong about underpopulation now?

A baby bust threatens the future of an already struggling reef.

Use this article … 95 years after I’m dead.

The Bruen decision upended America’s gun laws. Years later, cops and courts are still trying to sort out the mess.

Frictionless relationships are just a fantasy.

Plus trippy detective novels for when you just miss Twin Peaks.

The demographer is worried that we aren’t having as many babies as we used to — and says he knows how that could change.

Without enough houses for its growing homeless population, the city is using machine learning to make its process fairer.

Is the group too diverse to think of with just one word?

One wildflower at a time.

Pricey, legal weed is great news — for the black market.

That Tylenol’s shelf life is longer than you think.

It’s not cocaine, but it can be just about anything else — except a good idea.

Land of the free, home of the blazed.