Troy

Researchers working in the Rising Star cave system near Johannesburg, South Africa, report that they have found evidence that the small-brained fossil human species Homo naledi engaged in several sophisticated behaviors that were previously associated exclusively with large-brained hominins. The findings are preliminary, but if future research bears them out, scientists may need to rethink how we became human.

A shop in a small town in England is pioneering a new type of retail – one where goods are exchanged not for cash, but time. The response was overwhelming, with 1,143 hours pledged to help local charities in just one day. It’s a simple idea with a lot of impact, and it’s gaining momentum outside of this small cathedral city.

"Universal basic income usually covers people’s basic needs but we want to see what effect this unconditional lump sum has on people’s mental and physical health, whether they choose to work or not," says Will Stronge, the director of research at the thinktank Autonomy, which is backing the plan.

Since Russia's invasion, Ukrainian artists and cultural workers swiftly has been shifting their focus to contributing to war efforts, including on the front lines. But they are also working to maintain and promote Ukraine's unique artistic and cultural heritage.