Guest Thinkers — December 24, 2009

Sex and the Single Islamist

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Didn’t see this one coming: I thought Shiites were attracted to Hezbollah for its fight against Israel, or its aura of piety, or its social welfare programs. Didn’t know that, thanks to the practice of mutaa, or temporary marriage, some young men are also in it for the sex.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

An open ancient book reveals two pages, intricately illustrated with a pentagram and hexagram, surrounded by handwritten text in a faded script that whispers secrets of necromancy.

The Past

The “Demon Method”: How necromancy once solved everyone’s problems

Grab a sword, a small plate, and a young child. We’ve got a demon to summon.

A collage featuring hands holding a plant, additional hands in sepia tone, a grid background, orange accents, and the text "Reclaim Meaning" with the number 4.

Thinking

How to reclaim meaning in a changing world

What if the barrier to a fulfilled life isn’t technology but culture?

Silhouette of a person against a blue background, overlaid with white node and line networks.

Thinking

Mechanized minds: AI’s hidden impact on human thought

While we’re busy wondering whether machines will ever become conscious, we rarely stop to ask: What happens to us?

Starts With A Bang

Political realities do not change scientific ones

In partisan political times, recognizing the scientific truth is more important than ever. Scientists must be vocal and clear about reality.

In a black and white illustration, four cartoon characters stand among poppies, set against a fantasy world backdrop. Overlaid text delves into the 19th-century currency debate, highlighting the clash between "Silverites" and "Goldbugs," merging historical intrigue with imaginative charm.

High Culture

5 beloved fantasy novels based on real history

Many beloved fantasy adventures take place in worlds that bear a striking resemblance to our own.

Up Next

Surprising Science

Encyclopedia Of Life Fosters Citizen Science

When I was a kid, I was an avid reader of just about anything between two covers, but I had a special place in my heart for encyclopedias. Back in […]