This is my archive

Want to reduce polarization? Learn how to argue better.

Political polarization has skyrocketed in recent decades while online debate frequently devolves into childish — and sometimes dangerous — personal attacks. USC Dornsife’s Conceptual Foundations of Conflict Project thinks a little philosophy could help us make sense of it all. [4½ min read] Read More

Mars rover Perseverance will look for signs of life backed by USC Dornsife research

For more than a decade, a team of scientists helped develop SHERLOC, the ultraviolet laser technology that probes the red planet for chemicals produced by living organisms. [4½ min read] Read More

Debunking the myth of legislative gridlock

Despite a reputation of suffering from partisan gridlock, the nation’s capital is still creating laws and policy. [5¾ min read] Read More

‘Cause daughter’ leads premiere USC Dornsife academic program

Ange-Marie Hancock Alfaro brings a history of leadership and advocacy to her new role as chair of the Department of Political Science and International Relations. [6 min read] Read More

Robert Hellwarth, pioneer in laser technology, dies at 90

A professor of physics, astronomy and electrical engineering at USC for nearly 50 years, Hellwarth was a laser innovator and a beloved mentor, universally appreciated for his kindness, good humor and humility. [7 min read] Read More

New laboratory space promotes ‘happy collisions’ among scientists

Dedicated space for the CSI-Cancer initiative aims to get experts in physics, chemistry and biology to collaborate on cutting-edge science that benefits patients. [4½ min read] Read More

No, you are not addicted to your digital device, but you may have a habit you want to break

Understanding habits allows us to reverse engineer our way out of social media’s behavioral traps. In other words, we can change the cues that activate our habits. [5¾ min read] Read More

This Black History Month, better understand the role of the Black family

USC experts weigh in on the Black family, which has been “reverenced, stereotyped and vilified from the days of slavery to our own time,” according to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. [3½ min read] Read More

Historian uncovers the Underground Railroad that ran to Mexico

Mexico played an important role in helping escaped slaves find freedom and in shaping the United States Civil War, argues Alice Baumgartner, a member of the USC Society of Fellows in the Humanities, headquartered at USC Dornsife. [4¾ min read] Read More

Wetlands have saved Australia $27 billion in storm damage over the past five decades

A study shows that Australia’s wetlands take the brunt of a cyclone's power, preventing billions in damage. [4 min read] Read More