Culture & Religion — December 12, 2011

Behind Kremlin’s Thaw on TV Coverage of Protests

Facing the largest antigovernment protests in more than a decade, the Kremlin has, for now, softened its hard line against opponents. But is it simply digging in to wait them out?

bigthinkeditor

What’s the Latest Development?

Amid the biggest antigovernment protests in more than a decade–sparked by allegations of widespread fraud in the recent parliamentary elections–the Kremlin has, at least for now, softened its hard line against opponents. But some speculate that the sudden coverage of the rallies on state television, and the absence of a police crackdown, is because the authorities are digging in to wait out their opponents.

What’s the Big Idea?

In a Facebook comment, President Dmitry Medvedev said people had a right to express their position, but he didn’t agree with the slogans or statements made at the demonstrations. Initial reaction from the Kremlin and the ruling party seemed to suggest the Kremlin would allow opponents to let off steam but not make any major changes.

Image from www.kremlin.ru.

Starts With A Bang

The idea that matter is mostly empty space is mostly wrong

Practically all of the matter we see and interact with is made of atoms, which are mostly empty space. Then why is reality so... solid?

Strange Maps

America’s news deserts are growing

Most counties in the U.S. have only one local newspaper, often one that publishes weekly instead of daily.

Two people walking past a dark brick wall with numerous security cameras pointing in various directions.

The Present

Are smart cities a wise idea?

When Google runs a smart city, who owns the data?

Illustration of a young woman with closed eyes, smiling, next to a large, detailed eye and surrounded by vibrant, abstract elements and smiley faces.

Neuropsych

Eyes wide shut: Why closing your eyes intensifies psychedelic trips

A recent study suggests that exposure to visual stimuli can diminish the effects of psychedelic drugs.

Starts With A Bang

The big idea of Grand Unified Theories of physics

If the electromagnetic and weak forces unify to make the electroweak force, maybe, at higher energies, something even grander happens?

Up Next

Surprising Science

China’s Skill in Stealing America’s Secrets

The intriguing case of China’s success in obtaining the secret design of the American W-88 nuclear warhead illustrates the expertise of its espionage service—one that rivals the C.I.A..