Editor's note

Does it seem like pollen is getting worse? It is. While pollen has caused breathing problems, runny noses and sneezing throughout history, today’s warmer temperatures and higher levels of carbon dioxide increase pollen counts. Not only that, an estimated 10 to 30 percent of the world’s population are affected by seasonal allergies. Dr. Kara Wada, an allergist-immunologist at The Ohio State University, offers some historical context and tips on how to lessen the effects.

Your pet probably has a microchip, so it can come home if it gets lost. Some people are implanting the same sorts of microchips in themselves – which has evangelical Christians worried. Communication scholar Jordan Frith explains why, and why they’re not alone.

The recent college admissions scandal is just the latest case of wealthy individuals who commit wrongdoings to gain more advantages. Laura E. Alexander, scholar of religious ethics, argues that 20th-century theologian Reinhold Niebuhr might help us understand such greed and Buddhist ethics might also provide a way out of it.

Lynne Anderson

Senior Health + Medicine Editor

Top story

A girl in a field of flowers. Alex Cofaru/Shutterstock.com

Pollen is getting worse, but you can make things better with these tips from an allergist

Kara Wada, The Ohio State University

Pollen is ancient, but in recent times, it's getting worse. An allergist offers ways to manage the suffering and enjoy the spring.

Does a microchip implant have a deeper meaning? Reuters/Barbara Goldberg

What your pet’s microchip has to do with the Mark of the Beast

Jordan Frith, University of North Texas

Tiny electronic items can identify pets, clothes and even people. Evangelical Christians aren't the only people worried about what this technology might mean.

Human beings want more even if it comes at the expense of others. svershinsky/Shutterstock.com

What causes greed and how can we deal with it?

Laura E. Alexander, University of Nebraska Omaha

Some parents were recently charged with paying bribes for their children's admission to top colleges. Religious thought can help us understand what drives such greed and also provide ethical guidance.

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Today’s quote

"Mathematics is much more than equations or multiplication facts. It’s a living, breathing discipline shaped, in part, by the political forces around it."

 

3 times political conflict reshaped American mathematics

 

Della Dumbaugh

University of Richmond

Della Dumbaugh