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The psychological importance of being bored

The psychological importance of being bored

Being bored is a horrible feeling, but psychologists are starting to believe that it is a necessary part of the human experience that drives us to expand our own creativity, improve self-awareness, problem-solve, and take on new challenges. When was the last time you were truly bored? Most of us...

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Paris Olympics to seat thousands of spectators on recycled chairs

Paris Olympics to seat thousands of spectators on recycled chairs

The Paris 2024 Olympics has set out to use its moment on the world’s stage to promote sustainability. Part of its multi-step effort to do so involves seating 11,000 spectators in chairs made from recycled plastic material. The Olympic Games are often regarded as a spectacular celebration of human ability, watched by millions around the world. But throughout the last decade, the event has borne the brunt of great scrutiny...

By London, UK
Could white paint help Barcelona cope with frequent heatwaves?

Could white paint help Barcelona cope with frequent heatwaves?

Spain is warming at a faster rate than any other European country. In an effort to protect city-dwellers from worsening heatwaves, the Spanish government is considering painting Barcelona’s iconic buildings white. Barcelona’s cityscape has long been hailed by urban planners and architectural novices for its practical design and abundant natural features. But climate scientists are warning that current efforts to expand local green spaces won’t be enough to keep the...

By London, UK
The nine-dash crayon line that got Barbie banned in Vietnam

The nine-dash crayon line that got Barbie banned in Vietnam

The upcoming Barbie movie has generated worldwide excitement. Unfortunately, citizens in Vietnam won’t have the opportunity to enjoy it as its government has banned the film. Scheduled for release on July 21st, the highly anticipated Barbie movie, featuring a stellar cast, has faced a setback as the Vietnamese government has decided to ban its screening. The ban is attributed to a scene in the movie that depicts the South China...

By Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Why ‘beige flags’ have entered the Internet’s dating vocabulary

Why ‘beige flags’ have entered the Internet’s dating vocabulary

It’s not a red flag and it’s not a green flag. What does the newly popular term ‘beige flag’ mean regarding our personal relationships and why is it causing an online debate? Red flags and green flags have been discussed in dating spheres, friendship groups, and even the workplace for the better part of a decade. We know red flags generally manifest as social faux pas and potentially unforgivable acts, such...

By London, UK