Surprising Science — September 16, 2010

Internet Explorer 9

“Microsoft’s new web browser, IE9, is its most ambitious yet, as the company bids to take on Google Chrome and Firefox.” The Telegraph reviews the browser’s newest edition.

bigthinkeditor

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

“In recent years, Microsoft’s browser has come in for sharp criticism as IE6, still used across many public services and major organisations, has seen its security flaws exposed on multiple occasions. With IE9, Microsoft hopes to integrate the web more fully into Windows so that going online does not feel different from using other programs. The company’s Leila Martine, head of Windows in the UK, says that the new browser will make using the internet a more ‘immersive experience’, as well as providing a faster service.”

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A detailed, colorful brain visualization with intricate patterns of green, blue, and yellow on a dark background.

Neuropsych

The most detailed brain map ever

Scientists have created a magnificent portrait of every connection among neurons in a fruit fly’s brain.

Animated characters observe a family walking in a snowy scene through a viewing screen, inside a control room.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: Is there such a thing as a “negative emotion”?

There’s little more infuriating in the world than being told to “calm down” when you’re in the midst of a simmering grump.

Starts With A Bang

Ask Ethan: Is antigravity even possible?

Humans, when we consider space travel, recognize the need for gravity. Without our planet, is artificial or antigravity even possible?

World map highlighting the Brandt Line, dividing the Global North and Global South across continents.

Strange Maps

The Brandt Line gave us the Global North and South. It needs an update.

In 1980, Willy Brandt drew a line across the map that still influences how we think about the world.

Collage with a rocket launch, raised hand, SpaceX text, blueberries, and circuitry against a gray background with "THE NIGHT CRAWLER" text—echoing the intense atmosphere of chip wars.

Business

Inside the world’s most important company

Welcome to The Nightcrawler — a weekly newsletter from Eric Markowitz covering tech, innovation, and long-term thinking.

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Guest Thinkers

France vs. Romanian Gypsies

“What is happening in France today would most likely be referred to as ‘ethnic cleansing’ in less prestigious countries.” Spiegel on President Sarkozy’s campaign against Romanian gypsies.