Scientific American explores big ideas

In 2013, a powerful phrase appeared for the first time on social media in response to the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the death of 17-year-old Black teen Trayvon Martin: Black Lives Matter (BLM). Many adolescents have been empowered by Black Lives Matter posts and protests to take on anti-Black violence and racism. This title is an important resource that highlights Black and Brown's voices standing up to oppressive systems. The explanatory text also allows readers to understand and confront the ways racism influences public health crises such as COVID-19 and the scientific and academic realms.

"The ubiquity of computers and smartphones has reshaped nearly every aspect of contemporary life, from how we communicate to how we shop. However, it has also provided a new avenue for criminal activity. Cyberattacks can take many forms, but in general they involve hackers gaining unauthorized access to computers or Internet networks in order to change, destroy, disable, or steal information. These attackers can be private individuals launching cyberattacks for financial gain, governments and state-sponsored groups using cyberattacks to spy on their enemies or attack their infrastructure, and hacktivists who use attacks to reveal illegal or immoral activity. This volume examines the various applications of cyberattacks, how they occur, and what can be done to prevent them"--Provided by publisher.

Tens of millions of households in the United States have pets. They are often considered integral parts of families and close companions. There is a long history of domesticating animals, and this volume in part considers the intertwined evolution of animals and domestic animals to examine how these relationships have developed. It discusses the characteristics and behaviors of cats, dogs, and other animals that allows humans to create such a strong bond with them. It also looks at recent research on the advantages pets have on physical and mental health.

"The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved greatly since the mid-twentieth century. This book examines the history of AI from early explorations to the latest technology. It also dives into the ethical questions surrounding AI, what AI might look like in the future, and ways in which AI can be used to improve human life. With text explaining the fundamentals of AI as well as current debates on the topic, teens will develop a strong understanding of how the field has evolved over time and where it may be heading"--Provided by publisher.

"Through the use of smart technology--an integrated network of computers and telecommunication devices that collect a large amount of data to facilitate machine learning and artificial intelligence--urban areas have the opportunity to optimize public services, improve infrastructure, and operate in a more environmentally friendly way. However, those who are skeptical of smart cities argue that the large amount of data that is collected could easily be abused or fall into the wrong hands, violating the privacy of city-dwellers. This volume offers a wide range of perspectives on the potential high-tech future of cities"--Provided by publisher.

With the accelerating rise of online communication, there has also been an unprecedented spread of falsehoods. Readers coming of age in this world of information spreading at speeds faster than ever before may wonder about how technology can spread pervasive lies--and how they can play a part in making it more truthful. This enlightening title aims to guide readers in exploring how technology such as deepfakes and social media algorithms can convincingly distort the truth. They will not only learn to recognize Internet fabrications but also how to stop their spread.

"Zombies seem to be taking over pop culture in recent years. Readers are likely familiar with popular shows such as the Walking Dead and movies like Zombieland. However, they may be surprised to learn that zombies are not only found in fiction! This . . . title uncovers how real zombies can be found in nature, comparing them to the zombies that have been featured in stories for centuries. It also delves into some scientific ways that zombies like those portrayed in the media today could one day . . . walk among us! It also looks at mummies, UFOs, ghosts, bigfoot, dragons, and vampires"--Provided by publisher.

"This compilation of articles written by the editors of Scientific American explores the complicated subject of identity from a scientific perspective. What determines which traits, qualities, and beliefs a person will possess or be drawn to in other people? Researchers have examined genetic makeup, brain activity, emotional responses, and social structures to find patterns that can help explain how identity is formed. Science can be used to explain stereotyping, gender and sexuality, our tastes and beliefs, and the factors that shape our personalities"--Provided by publisher.

"Research suggests that almost every region of the brain is affected when you listen to music. It has a profound impact on emotional response, cognition, sensory experience, and motor function. This volume considers the role of brain anatomy and neuroscience in relation to music, music's role in social and emotional connection, and its potential to assist in treating brain injuries and neurological disorders. Through this volume, readers will gain a stronger understanding of the complex and fascinating relationship between music and the brain"--Provided by publisher.

"Features explanatory text that reveals the latest scientific research about how smartphone and social media usage affect developing brains. It also covers key ideas including how smartphones and social media impact relationships, change thought processes, and how they may even offer tools for improving mental wellness"--Provided by publisher.