Menu Close

Articles on Popular culture

Displaying 1 - 20 of 84 articles

Language is an ecological phenonemon which responds and evolves with environmental change just as much as environments change with language. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

How language can turn down the temperature of heated climate change discourse

Language is adaptive, self-balancing and evolves with environmental change. Understanding this may be the key to developing more nuanced climate change discourse.
In a March 2023 episode of ‘Accused,’ a teacher tries to help his student navigate the hurdles of getting an abortion. Steve Wilkie/FOX

How TV shows have grappled with a post-Dobbs America

Though abortion is appearing in more plot lines, many programs still aren’t accurately depicting what the reality of abortion access looks like in America today.
Spider-Man Miguel O’Hara, who first appeared in the 1992 comic series ‘Spider-Man 2099,’ was the first Latino superhero to assume a starring role. Marvel Database

‘Across the Spider-Verse’ and the Latino legacy of Spider-Man

Latino characters have traditionally been underrepresented in mainstream comics. But Spider-Man’s backstory makes him the perfect superhero to be recast as a minority.
A Pennywise clown cosplayer attends the Dia de Finados celebrations in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Carla Carniel/Reuters/Alamy

Why are we so scared of clowns? Here’s what we’ve discovered

Our research shows that coulrophobia, or fear of clowns, is mainly triggered by being unable to understand their facial expressions.
People enjoying Christmas decorations in Johannesburg, South Africa. Luca Sola/AFP via Getty Images

How to live up to the true spirit of Christmas

Research shows that religious people who actively participate in religious gatherings tend to have a more positive experience of Christmas, with expectations largely fulfilled.
Many critique Disney adults as being victims of exploitation because Disney merchandise and trips to the parks come at a steep price. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Some people treat Disney as sacred. Does that make it a religion?

People are increasingly identifying less with religious tradition and are looking for meaning and identity in the things they love most.

Top contributors

More