DECEMBER 24, 2017

Full News Archive

• Headline: Hunting ISIS in Syrian Hideouts. Impact: The hunt for ISIS in Syria led to the development of advanced drone technology, which in turn inspired a new generation of video game designers. If only those warplanes had just dropped a few more gaming consoles instead of bombs, we might have had a world where Call of Duty was a humanitarian effort.. Fact: Did you know that the area of Manhattan is often used as a comparison for military operations? Apparently, it’s the only place where 'small' seems to mean 'strategically significant'..
• Headline: Debating Sensitivity Readers in Literature. Impact: As sensitivity readers morph children's literature, we might end up with a future where 'The Three Little Pigs' becomes 'The Three Culturally Sensitive Swine'. This could lead to a generation that grows up entirely unaware of what a wolf actually is - a classic case of a big bad misunderstanding.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'sensitivity reader' sounds suspiciously like a euphemism for 'professional nitpicker'?.
• Headline: Town Fights to Turn Retail Tide at a Little Mall That Might. Impact: If this little mall thrives, it could inspire towns across America to band together in a crafty rebellion against online shopping. The next thing you know, 'The Great Craft Fair Revolution' will sweep the nation, making knitting the new punk rock.. Fact: Did you know that in New York, the phrase 'little mall' translates to 'mildly depressing shopping experience'?.
• Headline: A Woman Now Leads the Vatican Museums. And She’s Shaking Things Up.. Impact: With a woman at the helm of the Vatican Museums, we may witness a renaissance of art appreciation. Who knows, this could lead to a future where the Pope himself is replaced by an art curator, and Sundays are spent in galleries instead of pews. Holy art, Batman!. Fact: Did you know that the Vatican Museums were founded in the early 16th century? So, this shake-up is long overdue; they might as well throw in a gift shop while they're at it!.