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If we look at technology over very long timescales, our definition of what it is transforms, and as Tom Chatfield argues, it also displays a form of evolution entwined with our own.

Humans didn’t start out being able to digest animal milk – but now many populations do. Why has evolution favoured tolerating dairy?

Our hectic, on-demand lifestyles rely upon allocating finite resources to ever-changing numbers of people. To keep up, however, we must solve a little-known mathematical riddle.

How you talk about the major events of your life has a profound impact on your personality. If you change your life story, could you become a healthier, happier person?

When politicians fail to look beyond the next election – or even the latest tweet – they are neglecting the rights of future generations, argues public philosopher Roman Krznaric.

We tend to think of our looks as separate from who we are. But it turns out that physical traits like height or attractiveness may shape our personalities, behaviours, even politics.

Few human-made structures last for millenia, but as Alexander Rose explains, it is possible for design for extreme longevity if you look to the lessons of history.

Artificial intelligence can now predict what we want to type, making it quicker write messages to friends, colleagues and family, but do we risk losing something in the process?

There’s mounting evidence that brain damage has the power to unlock extraordinary creative talents. What can this teach us about how geniuses are made?

More and more patients are cutting out foods in an attempt to clear spots. But could this do more harm than good?

Bullying behaviour often emerges in childhood, and the consequences for victims can last a lifetime. What makes a child become a bully?

Old-fashioned romantics might have the wrong idea about love. Strong beliefs in true love could be blinding you to both the good and bad in your partner, with sometimes toxic results.

We might be predisposed to think the best in our partners, but perhaps we shouldn’t be so trusting

The experts tell us that small, easy changes alone will not be enough to combat climate change.

Are our IQs set to increase forever, or are we on the cusp of decline? David Robson explores the past, present and future of intelligence.

A new theory of emotions reveals just how easily our feelings can be shaped by context – offering some powerful ways for dealing with stress.

Want to know who will win a World Cup game or Wimbledon match? Look closely at the athletes’ eyes — including when it seems they're about to lose.

We know sourdough’s flavour and texture comes from the activity of microscopic bacteria – but where exactly are they coming from?

Our inability to look beyond the latest news cycle could be one of the most dangerous traits of our generation, says Richard Fisher.

Humanity’s most puzzling behaviour has deep roots in our evolutionary past

Good looks can get you far in life, but there are unrecognised pitfalls for the beautiful. David Robson reports.

The pace of life in the 21st Century has created “infostorms” that overwhelm our senses. Is believing in some of the sensationalist things we see actually a rational response?

Many think that perfectionism is a good trait, but researchers have found it can have a dangerous effect on mental health – and it’s on the rise.

A Japanese man accused of assaulting a singer says he located her through the reflection in her eyes.

Beneath layers of snow and ice on the world’s coldest continent, there may be hundreds of people buried forever. Martha Henriques investigates their stories.