explainers
Trump Is Bracing for His Arrest. What Happens Next?
What happens when a former U.S. president is charged with a crime? We answer that and many more questions about the likely indictment of Donald Trump.
Trump Is Closer Than Ever to Being Charged With a Crime
Three sets of prosecutors are closing in on the former president. Here’s where each probe stands.
Everything You Need to Know About the Great Lumber Crisis of 2021
Lumber prices are coming back down to Earth, but the crisis shows how many industries can be rocked by the price of wood.
Why Is the Oil Price Negative and Can You Buy Some? An Explainer
Why you can currently get paid thousands of dollars to pick up 1,000 barrels of oil in Cushing, Oklahoma.
The Music of 'Uncut Gems' Makes It Feel Like the Future
The film's remarkable score from Oneohtrix Point Never solidifies the sci-fi sonic vision of directors Josh and Benny Safdie in the Adam Sandler-starring thriller.
Taylor Swift's Messy Legal Situation, Explained
The ongoing drama between Swift and Scooter Braun has only gotten more convoluted. It's unclear what she'll even be able to play at her AMAs performance this weekend.
Where the ‘Crisis Actor’ Conspiracy Theory Comes From
Victims of the Parkland shooting have been baselessly accused of being paid actors, thanks to a series of conspiracy theory bloggers after the Sandy Hook massacre.
On Inappropriate Laughter, and What It Says About Our Brains
Don't worry, you're not a terrible person.
Exactly What Bernie Sanders’ Healthcare Bill Would Do
Your dummy’s guide to the clusterfuck that is healthcare right now.
The FCC Is Using an Obsolete Loophole to Help a Pro-Trump Media Company Take Over Local TV
Sinclair Broadcast Group will soon be able to reach 72 percent of all American households.
'Metadata Retention' Sounds Boring But Is Terrifying
Why being wary of Australia's metadata laws doesn't make you a conspiracy theorist.
What Is a ‘Stealth Black Hole,’ and Should We Worry One Will Gobble Us Up?
An explainer on the "stealth black hole" scientists announced this week.