Understanding Mass Killings

A disproportionate number of mass killings in the U.S. have been committed by military veterans. We should be asking ourselves why.

Lao Camp Food (Part 2)

A bomb clearance team in Laos eagerly buys bush meat from local hunters. Then they realize they’re eating threatened and endangered species.

Labor Pains and Helpless Infants: Eve or Evolution? (Part 2)

Anthropologists often use an idea called the “obstetrical dilemma” to explain why humans have helpless infants, but there is mounting evidence that this explanation is insufficient. Part II.

Anorexia’s Deadly Deceit

Anorexia is not just about striving for an idealized body image. It is an obsessive, relentless—and futile—quest to be pure, perfect, and clean.

Labor Pains and Helpless Infants: Eve or Evolution? (Part 1)

Anthropologists often use an idea called the “obstetrical dilemma” to explain why humans have helpless infants, but there is mounting evidence that this explanation is insufficient.

Spaces of Waiting: Obstetric Fistula in Niger

The work of a medical anthropologist offers a window into the world of Nigerien women who live with obstetric fistula.

Are We to Blame for the Colorado Theater Shooter?

The U.S. mental health care system is failing youth who are struggling with the onset of psychosis—the very time when effective help could make a difference.

Zika’s Frightening Stranglehold

Access to family planning services is critical to avoiding pregnancies during this public health emergency.

Meat Culture

Meat is a divisive issue. But as human beings, our diets are cultural, and so is nutrition. Healthy advice for one society might not work in another.

Beyond the Vaccination Rift

How does the human drive for social belonging affect parents’ vaccination decisions?