History & Society

Japan is one of the countries with the longest living population. At the same time, loneliness has become a growing problem among the elderly population. A recent trend shows that older women see prisons as their only option for a decent life.

According to researchers, there is strong evidence that the hallucinogenic substance Psilocybin has a positive effect on depression. The substance is found in some mushrooms and ongoing studies are exploring the possibilities of using Psilocybin in treatments for major depression.

In the emerging neoreactionary conservatism sweeping the US, there is a large mix of radical groups on the far right. Dimes Square in New York stands out as a cultural movement in stark opposition to political correctness.  

Democratic President Jimmy Carter believed in fairness and equality, but as an advocate of black rights he became somewhat controversial. Carter held the office of president for one term (1977-1981). Among US presidents, he became the oldest so far - 100 years.

Kulturhuset - the dream of a place for public education and culture - was realized as one of Stockholm's most important places in modern times. Peter Celsing was a stylish architect with a strong vision who made his mark on the cityscape. He was one of the more well-known players of his kind.

The esteemed author and short-story writer Paul Auster was a Brooklynite, but never really became a local celebrity - he remained more global. However, many of his stories were inspired by the Brooklyn setting, such as the New York trilogy, one of his best works.

The Stockholm metro, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, became a prerequisite for modern urban development. The Green Line was first planned with Hökarängen as its final station. It contributed greatly to the expansion of the south of the city. As stations were built along the new metro lines, Stockholm's suburbs also grew.

A new research study reveals that our brains are composed of half a percent of plastic particles. It is unclear whether these plastic particles disappear after a while or whether they accumulate in neurological tissues and eventually cause disease states. This uncertainty should be an eye-opener: we are constantly ingesting plastic particles

The wolf has been threatened with extinction, but has gradually recovered. Today, there are around 20,000 conspecifics spread across 23 EU countries. However, the wolf's protection status has been lowered. Increased hunting could destabilize the ecosystem food chain, of which the wolf is an important part, which could threaten biodiversity in the longer term.

There are different ways to deal with embarrassment and mistakes, but shame is rarely the way forward. Instead, learning from mistakes and coming to terms with them is a more constructive approach, and it makes you kinder kinder to yourself.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine goes back several hundred years. Already in the 18th century, the Russian army carried out a large-scale invasion of what was then Ukraine. Russia's interests are clearly rooted in history which makes the situation uncertain.

As the chilly months roll in, it's easy to feel uneasy.
According to psychology experts, we should instead turn winter into something positive - a period of inner calm and creativity that can be meaningful and lead to personal growth.

Therapy may seem like a mystery, but it is sometimes one of the best investments you can make in your well-being. By opening up to a psychologist, you learn to reflect on your life in a more nuanced way and gain better tools to face the future with clarity and mental strength.

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have used the underwater robot Ran to map the underside of a floating glacier. New discoveries could tell us much more about changing sea levels as a result of the ongoing melting of glaciers. This is a consequence of ongoing climate change.

In her book The Longevity Revolution, journalist Maria Borelius explores life in the so-called Blue Zones. Her research seeks to understand why people in these areas live significantly longer than average. The book provides an interesting insight into health and lifestyle choices.

Whang-od Oggay, also known as Maria Oggay, has devoted a lifetime to the art of tattooing in a small village in the mountains of the Philippines. Today, at 107 years old, she still performs her art with a sure hand. The queues are long to visit her and of course - to have her carve a tattoo.

Film director David Lynch didn't make it to his 79th birthday, but he was close. His death was greeted with sadness by all of us who followed the secretive icon for decades. Perhaps some still wonder who murdered Laura Palmer. Only Lynch himself has the answer.

Throughout history, the dog has remained by man's side as a reliable companion. From hunting and protection in times of trouble to companionship and security in everyday life, it has played a crucial role. Today, it may not be the utility that takes center stage, but rather the unconditional love that we receive.

There is something special about being out in nature. Many people find that they are re-energized after a few days of hiking in the wilderness. But what about sleeping outdoors on a cold winter night?

Lars Lerin is undoubtedly one of Sweden's foremost artists. At the exhibition at the Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, he showed a series of watercolors in which he recreated the yellowing colors of the time with a brilliant, artistic precision.

For those who want to travel economically while being able to cook at home, Airbnb has become a great solution. However, there is another way: home swapping - a cheaper and more authentic way to travel.

For centuries, the dog has played an increasingly important role in our civilization. The bonds between dogs and humans have gradually strengthened and we have benefited greatly from their qualities - hunting instinct , cooperativeness and loyalty. Therefore, the dog also became a friend. 

Happiness is not impossible to achieve, but what exactly is happiness, and does it exist in its complete form? Hardly. To truly feel happy, you need to be able to live in the moment and appreciate the little things in everyday life that bring you joy. Maybe this is the answer?

Not everyone is lucky enough to have friends, and many struggle with loneliness. Breaking isolation is rarely easy and requires both courage and determination. But how do you find new friends? There are different ways, but it takes a strong will and commitment to build relationships.