Audi’s “Daughter” Commercial

Accurately gauging many people’s mood across the country, Audi has created a commercial for the Super Bowl that isn’t about speed or luxury—in fact, it doesn’t even advertise one particular car. Instead this TV spot, called “Daughter,” depicts a bunch of kids in a somewhat ramshackle downhill cart race. One participant’s father narrates, contemplating his daughter’s gender and perceived worth. The final message from the …

If We Were All Elephants

In describing elephants by their almost mystical elements (like sensing the weather both near and far, using their femurs to listen) “Being a Beast” author Charles Foster builds a profile of profound beauty. Placing this profile in conjunction with one of contemporary urban living, Foster illuminates all that makes the animals gentle, loving and unique. From reciprocal altruism to the depths of consciousness, the giant …

GlobalXplorer: How You Can Be a Space Archeologist

A “hybrid of Indiana Jones and Google Earth,” archaeologist Sarah Parcak uses satellite imagery to scour the earth for remains and lost cities and now she’s inviting us regular schmoes to do the same. Parcak has just launched GlobalXplorer°, an online tool that means we can help search for these important sites so that archaeologists get there before looters do. She says, “Most people don’t …