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The Villainization of Business: Corporate Tyrants and Government Sycophants
Across political eras, corporations have been recast as either predatory villains or tools of the state—distorting their proper role in a free economy.
How big a miss could Araujo be for Celtic?
With reports suggesting Julian Araujo has been ruled out for up to eight weeks with a thigh injury, Celtic fans are fearing their season could unravel. Martin O'Neill's side currently sit third in the Scottish Premiership after a defeat at Dundee United, with Rangers two points ahead and leaders Hearts five points clear. News of the severity of the injury to Araujo, who has not played since the recent Scottish Cup win at Ibrox, has served as another blow during the international break.
Send us a question about Wisconsin’s men’s, women’s basketball teams
Wisconsin basketball beat reporter John Steppe will answer your questions about the teams in our UW mailbag this week. Ask a question here.
‘To do something nobody’s done’: physicist Zhu Zijie leaves Europe for China
Rising star scientist returns to China to undertake cutting-edge research in the field of cold atoms.
The list of people hit by recent Epic layoffs has been turned into a dedicated portal for recruiters
Google sheet turned into dedicated website, while Tim Sweeney steps in following outcry over laid-off worker losing cancer treatment
Who's in the 2026 NHL playoffs? Latest bracket, standings, tiebreakers
The 2025-26 NHL regular season is scheduled to end on April 16. Here is the latest look at the playoff standings, bracket and tiebreakers.
Who's in the 2026 NHL playoffs? Latest bracket, standings, tiebreakers
The 2025-26 NHL regular season is scheduled to end on April 16. Here is the latest look at the playoff standings, bracket and tiebreakers.
House GOP seeks to cut voucher expansion by 5K: week in politics
Republicans seek to scale back the number of new EFS vouchers TN can fund this year. But they also want to expand ESA vouchers to 18 new counties.
Which local politicians attended Trump's event in Memphis?
Also in the past week, UTHSC got a grant from the National Cancer Institute for breast cancer research.
Science finds a place on Artemis 2
While the Artemis 2 mission is primarily a test flight, the four astronauts on board will conduct some science during the nearly 10-day mission.
US airlines face fuel-driven financial shakeout
When United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby wrote to employees about the oil price surge earlier this month, the most telling line was not about fuel bills or flight cuts. It was about opportunity.
First projects at The Point to add apartments, retail, entertainment
The first wave of projects at The Point in Draper will include an entertainment venue, hotel and mixed-use apartment buildings.
The real threat to trust in science isn’t outright fraud, but the pervasive tweaking of research designs and models
Thomas Plümper and Eric Neumayer argue that science's credibility issues stem from the deliberate manipulation of research designs and model specifications.
Commentary: The Matilda Effect still shadows women in science
Even in 2026, Margaret Rossiter’s warning about overlooked women researchers remains relevant, the author asserts.
Why GM thinks OnStar, Super Cruise subscriptions will soon ‘fundamentally transform’ its business
GM sees an "exponential opportunity" to grow its high-margin subscription business, CFO Paul Jacobson said, pointing to strong year-over-year revenue growth.
How the New CEO of Tony Roma’s is Using Brain Science to Sell Ribs
Mina Haque went from attorney to entrepreneur to CEO of Tony Roma's.
Philanthropy in science has little oversight. Jeffrey Epstein exploited that
A large share of science funding comes through philanthropy, with little legal or public scrutiny. This lack of oversight allowed Jeffrey Epstein to cultivate scientists and launder his reputation.
Centre County sees wave of business openings, closings & changes in March. Here’s a look
Several new businesses are open, including restaurants and an arcade.
One of March's best Pixel features is finally reaching more users
Transit mode and commute notifications are finally rolling out widely.
Ryukyuan bobtail squid (Euprymna brenneri)
Ryukyuan bobtail squid (Euprymna brenneri), discovered seven years ago by OIST scientists from the same unit.
One UI 9 may bring a tap to share feature like Apple’s NameDrop
Samsung is building a new Tap to share feature that's similar in form and function to Apple's NameDrop feature.
Don't worry Kingdom Hearts fans, it looks like we might get some new info on Kingdom Hearts 4 in... a year's time?
A new illustration for the 24th anniversary of Kingdom Hearts has some hoping for a Kingdom Hearts 4 update soon.
Business - Oil rises, stocks fall as Iran war enters fifth week and further escalation looms
Photo of ram’s horn squid shell
The intricate ram’s horn squid shell is only about the size of a fingernail. Compared to other cephalopod species, the shell structure has not degraded over time. As part of this study, researchers used transcriptomics which revealed genes supporting biomineralization and regeneration of the shell.
Meet the 16 new C&I coaches for the 2026 spring high school season
From baseball to lacrosse and more, here is a short introduction to new spring sports coaches for high school teams on the Cape and Islands
Salmon sperm to bird droppings: The science behind bizarre skincare rituals
A flurry of bizarre skincare rituals are trending on social media. But does the scientific research suggest they can be taken at face value?
Salmon sperm to bird droppings: The science behind bizarre skincare rituals
A flurry of bizarre skincare rituals are trending on social media. But does the scientific research suggest they can be taken at face value?
Brevard County HS sports weekly schedule, Week of March 30-April 5
Brevard County high school sports schedule for the week of March 30-April 5, 2026.
How a Civics School With a Conservative Bent Divided Its Supporters
A University of North Carolina program was intended to promote civil discourse and ideological diversity. Some of its early conservative supporters say it is doing the opposite.
No More Cheese Grater: The Mac Pro Is Discontinued
It looked like that for a reason, but now it's gone.
Scientists solve 40-year-old biological mystery behind sleeping sickness
To survive in the human bloodstream, the African trypanosome parasite wears a "cloak" made of proteins known as a variant surface glycoprotein (VSG). The study, published in Nature Microbiology, identifies ...
CHL’s ‘Full Plate Living’ series helps transform eating habits, improve health
The Center for Healthy Living (CHL) has added a new lifestyle program called “Full Plate Living” to its 2026 schedule. Created by the nonprofit Ardmore Institute of Health…
10 Danbury eateries cited for serious health violations in Feb. 2026
Of the 24 Health Department inspections in February, six food-serving establishments and four public schools received serious violations, according to reports.
This Baton Rouge bank plans to take over the Capital Region
Currency Bank President and CEO Scott Gaudin plans to make his company the go-to bank for local companies in the Capital Region.
Do good neighbors make good economies? Minnesota could be a test case
Economic studies strongly suggest that higher levels of trust can lead to increased commerce, promote financial innovation and even foster economic growth. Will the neighborly care and civic engagement in Minnesota during the Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge translate into economic resilience?
Trump officials cite white supremacists in bid to end birthright citizenship
The administration builds its arguments on an 1800s campaign, led in part by a Confederate officer, that scholars say was steeped in anti-Black and anti-Chinese racism.
Weizmann Institute rebuilds after Iranian missile strike, but lost science may be gone for good
Most buildings damaged in the June 2025 attack have been repaired, but destroyed research and data cannot be recovered.
What events are happening in South Bend area from March 30 to April 5?
Discover a variety of fun events in South Bend and surrounding cities from March 30 to April 5, including movies, music, art and family activities.
Remembering public health pioneer Barry Bloom: a scientist, a mentor, a mensch
Marc Lipsitch and Yonatan Grad pay tribute to their former colleague and mentor Barry R. Bloom.
“I feel sad about what happened to Kasper,” Viljami Sinisalo
Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has voiced his backing for club teammate Kasper Schmeichel while away on international duty with Finland…The Finnish shot-stopper has stepped up in recent months, ...
From strength training to crepes, check out these new NJ businesses
Mr. Waffles is open in Hackensack. Discover Strength is in Parsippany. Columbia Bank has a new branch in Rutherford.
With stricter laws across the Southeast, NC remains an access point for abortion care
Out-of-state patients got more than one-third of the abortions provided in North Carolina in 2025, as telehealth expands as a pathway to care.
Health scores: Augusta McDonald's almost failed inspection. See why.
A McDonald's restaurant in Augusta only got a 71 on its latest health inspection. Find out why.
Off-farm income supports 30% to 40% of agricultural producers
Many farmers rely on outside income for cash flow, benefits and business growth, but time management and sustainability planning remain critical.
Dell’s CFO is using AI agents to run his finance team—and has helped the AI business go from $0 to $25 billion
David Kennedy discusses the company’s record-breaking year.
AKC Canine Health Foundation Joins All Access hosted by Andy Garcia to Explore the Science of Veterinary Innovation
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is excited to announce a collaboration with the educational program "All Access hosted by Andy Garcia" to develop a documentary segment centered on canine health research. Set to film on April 15, 2026, at the Foundation's headquarters and the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, the production will provide an objective look at how independent research improves the well-being of dogs, through highlighting CHF's pivotal role as a f
Light Science wins £300,000 university glasshouse contract
Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (AIM:LST, FRA:9FD), the AIM-listed agricultural and fire safety technology group, has won a contract worth approximately £300,000 to refurbish a glasshouse at a university in Wales, with an additional annual maintenance package of £19,000 also...
Brent Crude rises after Trump says he wants to ‘take the oil’ in Iran; Starmer to gather business leaders to discuss emergency measures
Asian stocks fall and Brent rises to over $115 a barrel; Trump says US could seize Iran’s export hub on Kharg Island
Older Galaxy phones are now getting AirDrop support, but don't celebrate yet
Owners of older Galaxy phones are starting to see AirDrop support, but there's a deal-breaking downside at the moment.
Here’s the Morgan Park Picnic entertainment lineup
n case you missed the news, Milwaukee Record and Busby’s will once again be joining forces to bring the city a full-fledged spring festival. Yes, following a successful debut in 2025…
Orlando Storm debut with 23-16 UFL victory over Columbus
A block in the back could have been a nightmare for Chris Rowland and the Orlando Storm on Sunday night at Inter&Co Stadium during the the team’s UFL debut game. Rowland, a Storm receiver, was trailing on a play as teammate Elijhah Badger was speeding down the field on the way to a 94-yard touchdown off a screen pass. Rowland, however, clipped a Columbus Aviators’ player in the back and flags ...
The psychology of holidays: the perfect space between breaks according to science
As the great Easter break begins, It’s tempting to base annual leave around maximising days out of the office, but there’s a much better way to make the most of your holiday. Lydia Spencer-Elliott followed made one big change to her annual leave schedule and was shocked by the benefits
New scoreboard part of £400,000 sports funding in Mid Suffolk
The investment is part of efforts to make sure rural communities have access to sports facilities.
CONNECT for Health Act of 2025
Permanent Medicare Telehealth Expansion: Provisions, Status, Stakeholders & Pennsylvania Implications
The tragedy of Adam Ankers – and why his family want football to learn from his death
Nobody knew Adam Ankers had a genetic heart condition. Two years after his death, it has to be hoped that his legacy is to make sport safer
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 30, 2026, puzzle No. 553
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Seeing Blue During Schirmacher’s Summer Melt Season
A network of meltwater lakes and drainage channels made an Antarctic ice shelf known for its blue ice areas even bluer.
Malnourished children and desperate mothers: the healthcare facility on the frontline of Nigeria’s hunger crisis
About 6.4 million Nigerian children are expected to be acutely malnourished by the end of the year, putting impossible pressure on scarce treatment centres
‘Wow, people were so angry at Labour!’ Green MP Hannah Spencer on politics, plumbing, smears and snobbery
The 34-year-old plumber last month secured the Green party its first byelection victory and a record fifth concurrent MP. She discusses the problem with career politicians – and being screamed at by voters
March 30: Science Central opens planetarium
FORT WAYNE — A large crowd of children and adults attended the March 25 unveiling of the long-awaited planetarium at Science Central.
Butterfat, Bots, and Bureaucrats: The Limits of Optimization
Across various fields, we constantly attempt to refine, control, and optimize complex systems. But whether it’s chatbots reshaping beliefs, cows engineered for more nutritious milk, drugs that suppress desire, or regulators chasing vanishingly small risks, each effort reveals the same tension: control involves tradeoffs. The issue isn’t whether optimization works—it’s what it costs and whether we notice it in time.
Capital Region AAPI youth summit in Albany focuses on mental health, resilience
Teenagers from across the Capital Region gathered in Albany Sunday morning for a summit aimed at helping youth talk openly about mental health and find support.
Epic Games layoffs: developer with terminal brain cancer loses life insurance
Epic Games’ latest round of layoffs, which cut roughly 1,000 roles, has drawn renewed scrutiny after reports that a longtime programmer with terminal brain cancer lost his employer-sponsored life insurance immediately upon termination. While the company offered severance and six months of continued health coverage, the employee’s family says a pre-existing condition prevents obtaining new coverage, prompting outreach to Epic executives and an update that discussions are now underway.
Pelham council to discuss bill impacting business license fees at special called meeting
City officials in Pelham announced a special called city council meeting for Monday night to discuss a bill making its way through the legislature that could impact how much money cities can collect from businesses doing out-of-town contract work.
Asian Shares Decline as Oil Prices Soar Amid the War in Iran, Echoing Last Week's Wall Street Drop
TOKYO (AP) — Asian shares mostly dipped in Monday morning trading as worries continued about soaring oil prices and the potential for further escalation in the U.S. war with Iran. The drops in Asia follow the deep declines on Wall Street last Friday that finished off a fifth straight losing week,
JD Vance warns that extraterrestrials are demons: 'I'm going to get to the bottom of this'
JD Vance does not believe that 'celestial beings' who 'fly around and do things to people' are aliens. 'I think they're demons,' the vice president said on a recent podcast appearance, vowing to 'get to the bottom of this.'
3 Simple Daily Changes Could Lower Your Risk of Heart Attack And Stroke
Small steps for big results.
‘The Count of Monte Cristo’: Will Jeremy Irons Be Back as Abbé Faria?
The Oscar winner made his debut in Episode 2 of the 'Masterpiece' adaptation of the literary classic.
'Running of the Elk' race rallies support for Elk Grove youth sports
The 15th annual Running of the Elk in Elk Grove raises funds for youth sports scholarships, supporting local families amid rising costs.
NBA-best Thunder beat Knicks as Boston seal playoff spot
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 30 points and the NBA-best Oklahoma City Thunder beat the New York Knicks 111-100 on Sunday while the Boston Celtics clinched a playoff berth.The visiting Knicks, led by 32 points from Jalen Brunson, fell to 48-27 and missed a chance to clinch a playoff berth.
Lauren Betts and UCLA return to Final Four with unfinished business
The Bruins' elite status cannot be minimized, and neither can Betts' legacy, but UCLA says its work isn't done.
Star Entertainment Group secures $550m refinancing deal with WhiteHawk Capital
The casino giant had been working on overhauling its borrowing facilities, and will replace a syndicate of lenders that includes Soul Patts and Macquarie.
Support beyond the classroom: Little Rock’s community schools offer health care, therapy, a student bank and more
At first glance, Chicot Elementary is just like any other school. But walk past the bright hallways plastered with crayon drawings and "I can count to 100" worksheets and through a gym lined with balance bikes, and you'll find clinics that provide vaccines, lab work, eye tests, counseling and language interpretation for Little Rock School District students and their siblings.
SM Entertainment, Unicef partner to empower Indonesian girls, improve school facilities
K-pop powerhouse expanded its social contribution program across Southeast Asia by signing a new partnership with Unicef to support children in Indonesia, the company said on Monday.
THE POLICY PROGNOSIS | Health Supply Chains Are Understudied, Limiting Focus on Patients
Previously, this column has scrutinized the lack of accountability in hospital systems, health insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their negotiators for raising U.S. health care costs. However, far more financial incentives exist to overcharge consumers for medications and services, and scarcely discussed negotiators may be taking revenues at every stage of...
In wrangling dark matter, some scientists find inspiration in the Torah, Krishna and Christ
When an invisible entity making up 85% of the universe's mass stumps the greatest scientific minds of our time, awe is an understandable response.
Injury sidelines Sophie Turner, shutting down 'Tomb Raider' series production
Amazon MGM Studios has hit pause on 'Tomb Raider' while star Sophie Turner recovers from an injury.
FIRST ON MS NOW: Pro-Palestinian protester discusses seizure in ICE custody: “my physical health is destroyed”
Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who was detained by ICE last March after participating in pro-Palestinian protests near Columbia University, was released this month after more than a year in custody. She joins The Weekend: Primetime for her first TV interview since her release to discuss her treatment and conditions inside a Texas ICE detention center.
2026 Final Four TV schedule, announcers: Where to watch NCAA Tournament, tip times for March Madness
The complete television and streaming schedule for how to watch March Madness 2026 through the Final Four
Franciscan Health to host Produce Prescription Program
Franciscan Health and Indy Hunger Network have teamed up to offer the Produce Prescription Program, a six-week program focused on healthy eating options, nutrition education and support.
College Student Is Disgusted By Her Roommate’s Science “Supplies,” So She Contacts The Landlord About The Disgusting Living Conditions
She never should’ve put it in the refrigerator in the first place.
Everything Jon Scheyer said following Duke's loss to UConn
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer recaps the Blue Devils' heartbreaking loss to UConn in the Elite Eight.
High school sports results for Sunday, March 29, 2026
SUNDAY’S RESULTS Softball WPIAL CLASS 5A Section 4 Baldwin 3, Connellsville 2 RIPKEN EXPERIENCE At Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Yough 10, Martin County, Ky....
This Colorado politician is not a famous actor
From Ronald Reagan to Arnold Schwarzenneger, it isn’t unheard of for actors to make the jump to politics, but if you hear the name Jeff Bridges in Colorado politics, it’s not the Dude y…
March Madness Final Four schedule, how to watch: Keep up with UConn-Illinois, Michigan-Arizona in Indianapolis
Arizona’s allied health care workforce could get needed boost from new bill
Arizona faces a health care professional shortage, ranking ninth worst in the U.S. A proposed bill aims to establish a workforce development program to address the shortage.
Joseph Baena, son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, wins first bodybuilding competition
Joseph Baena, the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, made his dad proud over the weekend, placing first in three contests at the NPC Natural Colorado State Championships bodybuilding competition.
Science Reorganization Planning At NASA Ames
Science Reorganization Planning At NASA Ames
She started a sparkling tea business with her husband; alcohol-free
Natalie Chiu and her husband are both scientists and embrace different ways of thinking. Knowing each other's strengths and weaknesses helped them grow the business.
Better Business Bureau program connects Marion family with trusted businesses to help finish dream home
A Marion family's dream home project hit a major setback after a contractor dispute left the build unfinished, but the Better Business Bureau is now stepping in to help them finish what they started.
Golden Demon Show Review from Adepticon 2026
Golden Demon 2026 hosted superlative painters from around the world as they competed in this prestigious painting competition. In this video, the Warhammer team debrief after the judging, discuss the winners, and take a look at some of the highlights from the event.
The Downward Spiral of the NSF’s GRFP (opinion)
Under the Trump administration, the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program has strayed from its historic mission of funding the most meritorious candidates regardless of STEM field.
Shaping effective leaders in women’s health: New FIGO Leadership Empowerment Series
FIGO is pleased to launch the Leadership Empowerment Series, a 15-module foundational leadership series designed to equip early career OBGYNs and other women’s health professionals with key skills, confidence and strategic insight needed to drive meaningful, lasting change at local, national and global levels. This series represents a meaningful step forward in FIGO’s commitment to strengthening leadership capacity across our member societies.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Just a few minutes of effort could lower your risk of 8 major diseases
Just a few minutes of getting out of breath each day could dramatically cut your risk of major diseases—including heart disease, dementia, and diabetes. A large study of nearly 100,000 people found that it’s not just how much you move, but how intensely you move that matters. Short bursts of vigorous activity—like rushing for a bus or climbing stairs quickly—were linked to striking reductions in disease risk, especially for inflammatory conditions and brain health.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Parkersburg teams are off to hot start
PARKERSBURG — Energy and effort are givens when it comes to the Big Reds and their spring sports programs, but results are what matter at the end of the day for “The School of Champions” at Parkersburg High. Thus far through the first two weeks of the season at PHS head coach Eric Stanley has […]
Canadian Adults’ Functional Health Has Declined
Worsening emotional health and increased prevalence of pain are the main causes of the decline in Canadians’ functional health from 2015 to 2024, says Statistics Canada.
Mid-Ohio Valley Spring Sports: Roane County Raiders schedule
Baseball Head coach: Larry Ash, 2nd year Assistant coaches: Matt Ash, Will Starcher Last year: 9-12 Roster Seniors 3 Jacob Greathouse (C/P), 8 Caden Caldwell (2B/MI), 16 Hogan Greathouse (DH/OF), 23 Carder Kinder (CF/P/UTL) Juniors 9 Brodey Proctor (LF), 11 Carson Casto (OF), 15 Alex Richardson (C/3B/P), 22 Reis Thornabar (1B/P) Sophomores 1 Wyatt Brabham […]