Thursday, 23 May, 2013

British archeologists unearthed bones of Richard III, who died in 1485 after a murderous reign. How do bones, isotopes, historic records, DNA and grave goods tell us about the dead?

Which came first: The empire or the administration? Conventional wisdom says the demands of empire led to the rise of bureaucracy. But a new study of six early states suggests that the specialization of power and function we call bureaucracy arises at the same time as the territorial expansion that leads to empire.

The ancients used fire to cook, smelt metal and make pots. It provided warmth, protection against animals, and became a social focus. Fire changed who we are. Could this explain the enduring allure of fire?

How does an atomic clock work? How does an atomic fountain work? Is there a limit to the accuracy of an atomic clock?

As AIDS spreads, we look at some nasty predictions. What can old epidemics tell us about the future of AIDS? How will AIDS affect the African economy?

Harry Potters’ guide to science of amphibians, witches and asthma.