Why the GOP can't spin Gustav
Gustav is an external event of the sort that happens during campaigns all the time, large and small. One party or the other usually takes advantage of them or benefits from them. But which one, and how is that decided? This is a very interesting piece on how people make their partisan decisions.

Have they found some dark matter?
The world of cosmology is abuzz with rumours that an orbiting observatory called PAMELA has discovered dark matter. Last month, the PAMELA team gave a few selected physicists a sneak preview of their results at a conference in Stockholm.

'Major discovery' from MIT primed to unleash solar revolution
In a revolutionary leap that could transform solar power from a marginal, boutique alternative into a mainstream energy source, MIT researchers have overcome a major barrier to large-scale solar power: storing energy for use when the sun doesn't shine.

Missile Strikes a Spy Satellite Falling From Its Orbit
A missile interceptor launched from a Navy warship has struck a dying American spy satellite orbiting 130 miles over the Pacific Ocean, the Pentagon announced late Wednesday.

Starbucks to Offer Free Wi-Fi With AT&T
Finally, free WI-FI access at your local Starbucks.

Mimicry - How to Build Rapport
Artful persuasion depends on eye contact, but not just any kind. If one person prefers brief glances and the other is busy staring deeply, then it may not matter how good the jokes are or how much they both loved “Juno.” Rhythm counts.

How Baboons Think (Yes, Think)
Reading a baboon’s mind affords an excellent grasp of the dynamics of baboon society. But more than that, it bears on the evolution of the human mind and the nature of human existence.

With Fear and Wonder in Its Wake, Sputnik Lifted Us Into the Future
Fifty years ago, before most people living today were born, the beep-beep-beep of Sputnik was heard round the world. It was the sound of wonder and foreboding. Nothing would ever be quite the same again.

The Poor Will Always Be With Us
According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data, one in eight American families lives below the poverty line. But network news has devoted less than one half of one percent to coverage of poverty and the poor.