As climate change intensifies across the planet, attention is turning toward technologies that offer novel ways to decarbonize our economy and our atmosphere. These include options for capturing, storing, and reusing carbon, and geoengineering techniques that directly manipulate the Earth's climate and environment. These methods may provide a criti…

Marking the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) 75th anniversary, USC Dornsife scholars examine the transatlantic alliance’s evolution from a Cold War bulwark to its current role. Is it time to strengthen, transform, or even retire it? Our political science and global security scholars convened for a critical dialogue on NATO's relevance an…

Join us for a compelling discussion on the enduringly popular playwright, William Shakespeare. Four centuries after his final curtain call, his influence still resonates deeply in our culture, our language, and our understanding of human nature. We'll explore the man behind the myth, the truths and misconceptions that have shaped his portrayal in p…

In this age of constant connectivity, social media has become more than just a means of expressing ourselves and connecting with others. The powerful algorithms that underpin these platforms are shaping how we communicate with others, what information we take in, and our perceptions of events (and ourselves). Its pervasive presence has brought a ma…

In a groundbreaking shift, more voters now identify as independent than with any specific political party. This evolution is predominantly driven by millennials and Gen Z voters, who often prioritize issues over party allegiance. Many people also feel a growing disconnect or disillusionment with the traditional parties. Join us for an enlightening …

Dive deep into the shadows of cinema with us as we explore the captivating world of horror films. Originating from the haunting tales of the late 1800s, the horror genre has not only stood the test of time but has flourished, spawning billion-dollar franchises and passionate fan conventions. But beyond the spine-tingling suspense and heart-pounding…

We hear a lot about how automation will reshape human life in the age of artificial intelligence. From revolutionary new techniques in health care to job losses in creative industries, our world may look radically different in the near future. Alongside these great transformations comes a great amount of anxiety about our place in this world. We us…

Peter Kuhn, a founding member of the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Biosciences, discusses breakthrough technology in the fight against cancer in the latest Dornsife Dialogues. Kuhn serves on President Biden's "cancer moonshot" initiative which is working to reduce the national death rate from cancer by 50%. In this discussion with distinguish…

As Earth's temperature rises due to the effects of climate change, cooling the air in our lived environments is increasingly crucial. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about health, productivity, and survival. Dependence on conventional air conditioning systems presents a paradox – while it offers immediate heat relief for those who have it, it con…

Considering AI tools can now effectively mimic human communication, robots can ace the Turing test, and lobsters and crabs have been classified by some nations as sentient, the topic of consciousness has never been more timely or interesting. Join this fascinating discussion on the latest developments and research regarding consciousness, including…

For nearly 200 years, stand-up comedians haven’t just been reflecting society, they’ve been influencing it through pointed social commentary. Join us for a discussion about the evolution of the art form, some of the most influential comedians, the growing challenge of censorship, and much more. Featuring: Lanita Jacobs, associate professor of Ameri…

For many, the start of a new year signals a renewed interest in healthier eating. But what does that mean today? The research regarding what — and when — we should eat has evolved quite a bit. Learn from our experts about how people of all ages can improve their health through better eating. Including tips on what foods to eat — and when — for a lo…

The COVID-19 pandemic made us all much more concerned about eradicating germs. Hand sanitizer is now a household staple and HEPA air filters have become the norm in offices and other indoor spaces. But many microscopic organisms we call “germs,” particularly bacteria, are actually beneficial. Join Susan L. Forsburg, Distinguished Professor of Biolo…

Nuclear energy is hot again. After decades of activism to close nuclear reactors and shift to other forms of energy, a growing number of political leaders and environmentalists support a renewed investment in nuclear power. Concerns around energy security and the growing need for decarbonization are also giving many nuclear plants life extensions. …

At times revered and at other times persecuted, witches and the phenomenon of witchcraft span global cultures and centuries of history, remaining popular even today. But what exactly is a witch and what do they practice? Were those famously persecuted for witchcraft throughout Europe and colonial America really witches? And, what’s up with those po…

To become the major metropolis it is today, Los Angeles periodically engaged in less than reputable means to secure the water it desperately needed -- particularly for a city built on a semi-arid coastal plain, surrounded by desert on three sides and an ocean on the fourth. From the freshwater battle to obtain drinking water and irrigation to the s…

Though it’s been 66 million years since dinosaurs have walked the Earth, they’ve never been more popular. What do film and TV shows get right about dinosaurs and what’s often wrong about the way they’re depicted? Could there ever actually be a Jurassic Park? Was it really a meteor that caused the extinction of dinosaurs? What did dinosaurs actually…

If the trend of remote work persists, how is it likely to affect workers’ quality of life, the profitability of firms, and the economic geography of cities and suburbs? Urban economist Matthew Kahn argues that remote work presents especially valuable opportunities for flexibility and equity in the lives of women, minorities, and young people, and e…

If you’re ready to overcome the confusion, heartbreak and madness of our dangerously divided times, whether you're left, right, center, or not a fan of labels, this video is for you. You'll learn tools and fresh, surprising insights to help you better understand and connect with those whose opinions are vastly different from your own. It’s easier t…

The birth of the universe and two of the most spectacular gravitational extremes, the Big Bang and black holes, are the focus of this fascinating discussion between two of USC Dornsife's leading scholars. They also answered viewer questions including: Is it possible to travel through time via black holes? Is there a multiverse? What is dark matter?…

What are some of the ways in which the health and lives of many Americans are in jeopardy simply because they’re Black? And what are some of the things the public can do to help change that? Listen to this engaging discussion regarding the truth of being Black in America among scholars of psychology and law; an advocate for transgender equality; an…