The article previews notable nonfiction books set to be published in 2026, covering topics such as personal memoirs from figures like Sylvester Stallone and Lena Dunham, social and political analyses from authors like Naomi Klein and Jared Diamond, and explorations of culture and identity through works on music, masculinity, and history.
Despite ongoing enforcement, Iran's authorities appear to be easing their strict mandatory hijab policies amid social disobedience and protests, though they have not officially abandoned the rule, and a potential crackdown remains possible. Women are increasingly dressing freely in public, reflecting a shift driven by civil resistance, but the regime continues to enforce and threaten repression against those opposing the hijab.
Iranian women are quietly protesting by removing hijabs and riding motorcycles, signaling a significant shift in social norms despite ongoing repression and crackdowns, indicating a potential silent revolution in the country.
Organizers of the 'No Kings' protests anticipate a massive turnout of millions to protest against the Trump administration's policies, including issues like ICE arrests and election interference, aiming to defend democracy amid mixed reactions and historical context of protest efficacy.
Gisèle Pelicot's case, where she was drugged and raped by her husband's accomplices, has sparked a national debate in France about sexual violence and societal attitudes, leading to increased awareness and reporting, but significant legal and cultural changes remain slow and challenging.
Across Morocco, Madagascar, Peru, Nepal, and other countries, Generation Z is leading widespread protests driven by economic inequality, political corruption, and social injustice, utilizing digital platforms for organization and mobilization, signaling a global shift in youth activism and discontent with traditional political systems.
Researchers from the University of Maine argue that culture is now the primary driver of human evolution, surpassing genetics in shaping our development through rapid adaptation via social systems, technologies, and shared practices, potentially leading to a future where societal and cultural factors determine human survival and evolution more than individual genetic traits.
The article discusses the growing influence and social movements of Generation Z across Asia, highlighting how this demographic is driving significant cultural and political shifts in the region.
University of Chicago professor Robert Pape warns that America is experiencing an era of violent populism characterized by rising political violence and support for violence on both the right and left, driven by demographic shifts and social change, with the internet acting as an amplifier but not the root cause. He emphasizes the need for political leaders to condemn violence to prevent further escalation.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez announced their engagement from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the country's rapid social changes and the couple's unconventional lifestyle in a conservative society, raising eyebrows about social norms and legal ambiguities surrounding cohabitation and marriage.
The UK Parliament has approved a bill to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales, marking a significant social shift comparable to historic reforms, with the law likely to be enacted by the end of the decade after passing through the House of Lords. Public support is high, and the change reflects broader liberal trends, though debates over the terminology and the role of the unelected Lords continue.
Season 3 of 'The Gilded Age' is the show's best yet, balancing drama and lightheartedness while exploring new social dynamics, including the Black elite and youth relationships, and advancing storylines like the Russell family's tensions, marking a stronger and more nuanced portrayal of the Gilded Age.
Participant Media, the studio behind award-winning films like "Green Book" and "Spotlight," is shutting down after 20 years. Founder Jeff Skoll announced the decision, citing the need to evaluate his next chapter and approach to tackling pressing issues. The company, known for its dual mission of making money and inspiring social change through entertainment, has produced impactful documentaries and high-profile awards contenders, earning numerous Oscars and Emmys. Skoll expressed gratitude to the global community of Participants and emphasized the lasting impact of the company's work on global conversations and real-world change.
Participant, the media company responsible for films like “Spotlight” and “Roma,” is shutting down after 20 years. Founder Jeff Skoll informed staff that the company will wind down operations, with nearly all 100 employees being let go. The company's library of 135 films will remain, but no new content or production is planned. Participant's mission has been to create movies that inspire social change and serve as an "impact media company." The decision comes as the market for socially impactful films has been strained since the COVID-19 pandemic.
A study warns that unless Japan's restrictive marriage laws change, all Japanese people could share the surname Sato by 2531 due to the declining marriage rate and population. Currently, Japan legally requires married couples to share the same surname, with wives typically taking their husband's name. The country's dwindling marriage rate and rapidly declining population could render this trend moot. Advocates are pushing for legal changes to allow couples to keep both their last names to preserve surname diversity in a nation where a few names are becoming increasingly common.