A list of good reads
- The Guardian looks at a new trend in scientific innovation—the use of social media influencers to promote projects like the one to bring back the Tasmanian tiger (We explained that one here).
- Japan Times reports on an interesting travel trend called ‘random trips’—where you buy a train ticket but don’t know your final destination.
- The Print has an interesting piece on how Vijay Nair—the founder of the events company Only Much Louder—ended up in the middle of a nasty fight between the BJP and AAP. He was named in a CBI FIR—which also targeted Deputy Delhi CM Manish Sisodia (we explained that drama here).
- Also a good read in The Print: the ubiquitous Indian slur ‘Bihari’—and why even Bollywood stars can’t escape it.
- For military strategy nerds: War On the Rocks offers a thought-provoking argument in favour of ‘defensive’—as opposed to ‘offensive’—military strategy. Today, the best defence is, in fact, a very good defence.
- Nieman Lab looks at an interesting new study that shows you can inoculate young people against misinformation—even before they are exposed to it.
- Dr Devika Bhushan is the acting surgeon general of California. Her wonderful op-ed in the LA Times explains how her bipolar disorder has made her a better doctor and human being.
- Bellingcat has the fascinating story of how a socialite and secret Russian spy penetrated NATO circles in Europe.
- Washington Post (splainer gift link) has an absolute must-read feature that follows two Indians as they struggle to survive a heatwave in India.
- Looking for a deliciously intriguing podcast episode? Check out ‘Notes on A Scandal’—a story of sex, lies and scandal in Pakistan based on the book ‘Society Girl’. The Print has more on the book and podcast.
- New Yorker has an entertaining take on the aesthetic splendour of…‘The Simpsons’!
- Mint Lounge looks at the painful phenomenon of ‘touch starvation’.
- New York Times has a thoughtful take on Harry Styles—and the accusation that his personal style is a form of queer-baiting.
