The Moron Factory
A short story
How Progressives Froze the American Dream
The U.S. was once the world’s most geographically mobile society. Now we’re stuck in place—and that’s a very big problem.
The ‘Gulf of America’ Is an Admission of Defeat
Trump’s renaming of the Gulf of Mexico is not triumphant but pathetic.
The Rich Tourists Who Want More, and More, and More
Can anything satisfy the guests of The White Lotus?
How to Prevent Trump From Defying the Courts
Other countries have demonstrated three possible paths—not all of which lead to good endings.
How Trump Lost His Trade War
When the U.S. breaks its treaties, only China wins.
Why the COVID Deniers Won
Lessons from the pandemic and its aftermath
The Failed Promise of the New Captain America
The first intriguing Marvel sequel in years quickly wastes its potential.
The Public Humiliation of Eric Adams
Blink twice if you need help, Mr. Mayor.
How America Got Mean
In a culture devoid of moral education, generations are growing up in a morally inarticulate, self-referential world.
The Type of Love That Makes People Happiest
When it comes to lasting romance, passion has nothing on friendship.
What the Biggest Saturday Night Live Fans Know
The 50-year-old sketch-comedy show isn’t just about the jokes.
A Blatant Violation of Legal Ethics
DOJ lawyers pride themselves on working for an organization that is unique among federal agencies in its independence from politics—for now.
RFK Jr. Won. Now What?
America’s health is in the hands of an anti-vaccine conspiracist.
What's Wrong With Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update'?
Five months after Lorne Michaels switched up the hosts, the faux-news segment feels stuck in its "rocky start" phase.
Flaco Lives
Visiting the New York Historical’s new exhibit on a tragically deceased celebrity owl
The Anti-Social Century
Americans are now spending more time alone than ever. It’s changing our personalities, our politics, and even our relationship to reality.
The Army of God Comes Out of the Shadows
Tens of millions of American Christians are embracing a charismatic movement known as the New Apostolic Reformation, which seeks to destroy the secular state.
The Real Problem With DOGE’s AI Plans
Unlike an army of human bureaucrats, an army of AI agents could, almost on a whim, be redirected.
A Sea Story
One of the worst maritime disasters in European history took place two decades ago. It remains very much in the public eye. On a stormy night on the Baltic Sea, more than 850 people lost their lives when a luxurious ferry sank below the waves. From a mass of material, including official and unofficial reports and survivor testimony, our correspondent has distilled an account of the Estonia’s last moments—part of his continuing coverage for the magazine of anarchy on the high seas.