China’s Selfie Obsession
A piece examining the phenomenal success of MeituÕs social apps, installed on over a billion devices, and changing self-image across their user base.
Dry, the Beloved Country
A piece that examines the response to a severe drought in Cape Town. Whilst undoubtedly a crisis, it has also become “a kind of vast, unplanned, crazy—and fabulous—social experiment”.
The Man Who Solved His Own Murder
An account of the murder of Alexander Litvinenko, the former Russian spy killed in London ten years ago – a story of incompetence, intrigue, criminality and authoritarianism. It’s worth listening to the audio too.
The Real Scandal Behind the Panama Papers
A Nobel prize winning economist describes his experience serving on a commission convened after the release of the Panama Papers.
The Prisoner
The story of Edwin Debrow, a 37 year old man who has been incarcerated since he was convicted of murder at the age of 12.
Going underground: inside the world of the mole-catchers
A look at the surprisingly bitter infighting that exists in the mole-catching community. The profession has been in existence in the UK since the 16th century.
What Happens If China Makes First Contact?
Just as the US seems to be turning away from trying to make contact with extra-terrestrial life, China has built a huge custom radio dish for the very purpose. The author visits the dish, examines China’s long history of astronomy and reviews its current attempts to drive scientific innovation.
Chasing the Phantom
A piece on the United States government’s investigation into Evgeniy Bogachev, a bank robbing hacker, and his possible involvement in the hacking activity during the 2016 US Election.