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Articles on Popular culture

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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.
Usher, shown speaking in 2019 at an event hosted by the nonprofit he started, and two other celebrities shot five episodes of the canceled series. Paras Griffin/Getty Images

‘The Activist’ reality TV show sparked furor, but treating causes as commodities with help from celebrities happens all the time

The producers are recasting the show as a documentary. The original version would have done more harm than good for the causes being showcased, two scholars argue.

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