social science / popular culture

The author explains how his research into a potential hoax being played on scientists prompted him to explore an asylum for the criminally insane, where he met a wide variety of individuals and learned that the lines between ordinary and mentally ill are not always clear.

Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, was a master craftsman who revolutionized the presentation of puppets on television, a savvy businessman, and a creative team leader with a gift for collaboration with colleagues. He also had a Christian Science upbringing, a love of fast cars and expensive art. His untimely death deprived the world of his future creative genius.

Describes the extreme sport of BASE jumping and its history.