Surprising Science — February 2, 2011

We Shouldn’t Worry About “Designer Babies”

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

In vitro babies should be pre-screened for severe birth defects, argues Jacob Appel. If this creates a slippery slope, parents can find “level places on it” (and maybe save money on SAT tutors).

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

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.

Five Lego minifigures standing in a line, each with distinct facial expressions and clothing, against a split white and orange background.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: Can you self-identify as a different generation?

Reading this article would be such a millennial thing to do.

A gloved hand holds a small vial in front of a colorful, blurred background resembling a DNA sequence.

The Future

This $400 genetic test could save your life

“The promise of the Human Genome Project has finally arrived.”

Abstract design with human profiles, a silhouette of a person walking, and text reading "The Happiness Paradox 4" on a grid background.

The Present

Why happiness is not the best indicator of well-being

Achieving values and pursuing growth is the real secret to a fulfilled life.

Aerial view of a car parking with proximity sensors activated, showing red and green signals indicating object detection around the vehicle.

The Future

The rise of the semi-autonomous car

Why the road to self-driving vehicles is paved with smarter “dumb” cars.

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Guest Thinkers

Happiness–Part 5: Another Happy President (Jefferson the Christian Epicurean)!

The author of the Declaration of Independence and surely our most “intellectual” president, Thomas Jefferson, wrote that we have life and liberty for the pursuit of happiness. In his private letters, […]