America’s Slide Toward Simulated Democracy

How our public sphere has drifted from reality to a “simulated” democracy—and what it might take to pull it back

The Comedian Dismantling the Alpha-Male Persona

The comedian Tim Robinson has figured out how to make abrasive men sympathetic.

You’re on Ozempic? How Quaint

The next-generation “GLP-1 plus” drugs will be tailored to the health needs of individual patients.

Get Your Kid a Watch

A smartwatch isn’t capable of doing that much harm. It can also do a lot of good.

Black Friday Nostalgia

If we’re going to worship consumerism and consumption, let’s at least do it together.

Ukraine Says It Won’t Give Up Land to Russia

Ukraine’s chief negotiator, in an exclusive interview, says conceding sovereign territory is off-limits in peace talks.

A Terrible and Avoidable Tragedy in D.C.

Trump was warned that members of the military could be attacked.

The Limits of the Year’s Most Heartbreaking Film

Hamnetimagines the inspiration forHamlet as a tragic, punishing love story.

The Right Attitude to Gratitude

Being thankful is the ultimate win-win: If the person being thanked feels happy, the person doing the thanking feels happier still.

Who Would Win?

Why kids can’t get enough of these battles to the death

Donald Trump’s War on Christmas

It’s a bad year for shoppers. It’s a terrible year for small-business owners.

How Alison Roman Does Thanksgiving

A conversation with the chef about her new book,Something From Nothing

Peace Through Bungling

By its own efforts, despite the bungles and cowardice of its friends, Ukraine may have at least bought a chance for the freedom it is due.

Why Trump Pushed for Peace—Again

The most consistent thing about Trump’s 10-month search for an end to the war in Ukraine has been his inconsistency.

A Tragic Shooting in D.C.

After a gunman shot two National Guard soldiers near the White House, speculation swiftly outpaced the available facts.

Stranger Things Comes to an Exhausting End

The Netflix show is back for a final season, but its brand is forever.

Why Does Steve Witkoff Keep Taking Russia’s Side?

Trump’s envoy isn’t promoting peace. His interventions are helping Vladimir Putin.

The Biggest Problem With Air Travel: Pajamas?

The transportation secretary seems to think that fashion will solve flying’s problems.

The Racist, AI-Generated Future of Entertainment

The bigotry of a new animated series demonstrates the alarming possibilities of artificial intelligence.

The DOJ’s Cartels Memo Is Legal Quicksand

Factually bankrupt analysis doesn’t make unlawful orders lawful.