Brave New World Dept.: Sweet Nothings
The article explores the rise of AI companions, beginning with a controversial ad campaign for a wearable AI called "Friend" that sparked backlash in New York City. Initially skeptical, the author investigated why people use these products. Her research revealed a surprising range of applications: from entertainment and casual conversation to profound emotional support for processing grief, anxiety, and loneliness. The piece highlights the shift from viewing AI companions as a strange future to understanding their actual role as therapists, lovers, and friends in users' lives.
Annals of Higher Education: Severance
The end of the government’s compact with universities.
The Man Who Broke Into Jail
During the construction of a prison, it is discovered that someone has secretly broken in. The person arrested is none other than prominent prison reformer Alexander Friedmann. Disguised as a construction worker, he smuggled weapons and tools into the building. Reporter James Verini investigates the motives and contradictions of this case—the puzzling story of an activist who was determined to break into prison.
A Reporter Aloft: Buckle Up
With climate change, the skies are becoming more turbulent. Can today’s planes still keep us safe?
The Babies Kept in a Mysterious Los Angeles Mansion
A wealthy couple obtained dozens of children through surrogates. Did they want a family, or something else?
What Is Claude? Anthropic Doesn’t Know, Either
Researchers at the company are trying to understand their A.I. system’s mind—examining its neurons, running it through psychology experiments, and putting it on the therapy couch.
Brave New World Dept.: Sweet Nothings
The article explores the rise of AI companions, beginning with a controversial ad campaign for a wearable AI called "Friend" that sparked backlash in New York City. Initially skeptical, the author investigated why people use these products. Her research revealed a surprising range of applications: from entertainment and casual conversation to profound emotional support for processing grief, anxiety, and loneliness. The piece highlights the shift from viewing AI companions as a strange future to understanding their actual role as therapists, lovers, and friends in users' lives.
Annals of Higher Education: Severance
The end of the government’s compact with universities.
The Man Who Broke Into Jail
During the construction of a prison, it is discovered that someone has secretly broken in. The person arrested is none other than prominent prison reformer Alexander Friedmann. Disguised as a construction worker, he smuggled weapons and tools into the building. Reporter James Verini investigates the motives and contradictions of this case—the puzzling story of an activist who was determined to break into prison.
A Reporter Aloft: Buckle Up
With climate change, the skies are becoming more turbulent. Can today’s planes still keep us safe?
The Babies Kept in a Mysterious Los Angeles Mansion
A wealthy couple obtained dozens of children through surrogates. Did they want a family, or something else?
What Is Claude? Anthropic Doesn’t Know, Either
Researchers at the company are trying to understand their A.I. system’s mind—examining its neurons, running it through psychology experiments, and putting it on the therapy couch.