What is the national debt? A reporter’s guide
Depending whom you ask, America’s debt is either a national crisis or a clever way the world’s richest country takes advantage of its global economic dominance. We explain.
Expert Commentary
Are fracking and earthquakes really connected?
Scientists have linked the oil and gas industry to a rash of earthquakes in regions that previously saw few. But, contrary to popular belief, fracking itself is not the main cause.
Expert Commentary
Do licensure exams help school districts pick good principals?
A licensure exam that educators in many states must pass to become school principals may be an ineffective means of predicting future job performance, a new study suggests.
Expert Commentary
Holland’s legal prostitution zones reduce rape: New research
Dutch cities that regulate prostitution in dedicated areas see a dramatic decline in rapes and sexual assaults, a new study finds.
Expert Commentary
Skilled foreigners with H-1B visas take U.S. jobs, but help reduce prices
Highly skilled foreigners are behind some of America’s most celebrated innovations. A new study suggests they drive down native workers’ wages, but benefit consumers overall.
Expert Commentary
US emergency rooms fail to identify elder abuse
Older patients are diagnosed with elder abuse in less than 0.02 percent of emergency room visits, an indication that doctors may not be spotting signs of abuse.
Expert Commentary
Investing in energy efficiency: Research on when it pays
Investments in efficiency are most cost-effective when electricity prices are highest. Smart meters are helping economists better estimate when electricity is needed to meet consumer demand.
Expert Commentary
Polling Iran: What do Iranians think?
As American rhetoric on Iran heats up again, Iranian public opinion polls can bolster reporting. We offer guidance on finding and using polling data.
Expert Commentary
Fathers see their kids less often if they owe child support
Millions of fathers don’t live with their children. A new study suggests those behind in child support see their kids less often, work fewer weeks a year and are more likely to have kids with multiple partners.
Expert Commentary
Universal basic income: Money for nothing or efficient equalizer?
Offering every citizen a guaranteed monthly payment is an idea that has gained traction in some parts of the world. Would it really reduce poverty? We review the research.
Expert Commentary