Fascinating lecture by Dr Hannah Critchlow on the extent to which we are “pre-programmed” by our genes versus neuroplasticity. (Image shows what happens to the brain when the volunteer on stage was given clay to play with) #RosalindFranklinlecture
There’s been too much scrutiny of Trump’s every word. Here’s some nuanced analysis on what actually matters now
I feel strongly about giving more space to dissident voices, especially from Russia and China. This edition brings together UK and global perspectives on how we can stick to our guns in this new age of propaganda. It’s an inspiration 🔥 Read it today!
Just became part of the Women in Journalism network. There’s still so much to be done, supporting and empowering each other www.womeninjournalism.co.uk
Hugely excited to take New Humanist into a bold new era as Editor, supported by this phenomenal group
Just realised we’re spreading a thought experiment that panicked so many people it was banned… go on, read and doom yourselves! newhumanist.org.uk/articles/649...
The beginning of Jan has been brutal, but here’s your reminder, from @naomialderman.bsky.social, not to burn anyone at the stake today. I interviewed her on how we can draw on the lessons of history to get some perspective. It’s an unexpectedly heartening read! newhumanist.org.uk/articles/649...
“Atheists, bohemians and the children of stray Russian intellectuals.” Yes, this was my school (as a day child with a small music scholarship). Now I need to start a band named Children of the Louche
My most loyal of friends nearly died this year.. Pericles the dog heroically survived cancer and was zooming along the beaches with me today to see off 2025! 🐾🙏
This is a wonderful gift, beautifully designed and full of thought-provoking articles, and a steal at £21. Give a gift that lasts all year!
I endorse performative reading. Please feel free to read New Humanist as shamelessly and publicly as you like, particularly this latest issue: newhumanist.org.uk/articles/647...
Finally, the two child benefit cap is scrapped. A good time to revisit James Ball’s reflections on why the policy has proved so central to the fight over the soul of the Labour Party
newhumanist.org.uk/articles/639...
I often pass Lindisfarne island, on my way from London to my mum’s in Scotland. This charming piece is a guide to walking there (you can!) and an exploration of what it means to be an “atheist pilgrim”.
Read more and buy the issue at newhumanist.org.uk
Give me your ideas, which people make you feel inspired - or at least keep you sane?
We have to now make a choice to “work the muscle” of our brains, just like we hit the gym where once we laboured in the fields. Beat the brainrot! Start by buying this issue on our website or at the shops 🧠
The word of the year is “Parasocial”. Perhaps not unrelated to last year’s “Brainrot”? 🧐
Look out for the *How to Stay Smart* issue of @newhumanist.bsky.social, OUT TOMORROW
Buy the issue here, or a digital subscription for only £10 a year (for now). That’s insanely affordable
It’s your last chance to buy our “Battle over Space” issue, in your local shop or on our website. Here’s one of my faves, on NASA’s sexist history and how to talk to aliens
It’s flu and Covid season again, and many of us are guiltily avoiding each other. Read this about how normal it is to have health anxiety, it will make you feel (paradoxically?) better 🤧 newhumanist.org.uk/articles/647...
@siobhan.bsky.social Hi Siobhan, I’d like to contact you re a potential opportunity with New Humanist, could you email editor@newhumanist.org.uk if interested, thanks
I interviewed an expert on space warfare. We need more public awareness he says, “it’s a democratic issue”
A fascinating piece of reportage from Japan on the nuclear choices all countries must make
A last late summer trek along the river Ouse… farewell cerulean skies
Also enjoying Saskia Vogel’s luminescent prose
A lot of people telling me they’re bored of contemporary fiction. Check out the small indie Fly On The Wall Press. These novels are brave and tender, and definitely bucked the tendency towards flat, anhedonic prose
Any science feature writers? We pay £350-450, send your pitches today or tomorrow!
We pay £350-450, depending on the piece
Also just a bunch of other amazing pieces, including @jamesrball.com on Luigi Mangione and the “rationalist” murders, and @tedilta.bsky.social on health anxiety, and why we should all be less obsessed with monitoring our bodies
