A self-driving car has a split second to decide whether to turn into oncoming traffic or hit a child who has lost control of her bicycle. An autonomous drone needs to decide whether to risk the lives of busload of civilians or lose a long-sought terrorist. How does a machine make an ethical decision?

Intelligence was once thought to be uniquely human. But researchers have discovered astonishing cognitive abilities in many other species—not just our close cousins like chimps, or fellow mammals like dolphins—but …

Sexuality and gender play a profound role in shaping identity, but for much of human history how they are determined has remained obscure. How does sexual orientation develop? What is it? Can it be changed?

A compelling narrative is the true heart of science writing, whether it comes in the form of a science fiction classic like Frankenstein or a physicist’s blog posts. But what are the specific ways that writers illuminate and humanize science?

This video is part of our Brilliant Breakthroughs series: our new 20-episode mini-series exploring the “Eureka!” moments and proud accomplishments of the greatest scientific minds of our time. Join us …

Using brainwaves to send a Tweet, biomechanical engineer Adam Wilson demonstrates how neural prosthetic devices can allow people with motor disabilities to communicate with the outside world. Episode filmed live …