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The Economist explains

Subjects topical and timeless, profound and peculiar, explained with The Economist's trademark clarity and brevity

The Economist explains

How art is used against artists, like Young Thug, in court

Rap music, more than any other creative form, is used as evidence of other crimes

The Economist explains

Could the Democrats replace Joe Biden as their presidential candidate?

Worries about his chances of re-election are growing

The Economist explains

Why the price of olive oil is soaring

Climate change, export controls and soaring fertiliser costs leave a bitter taste

The Economist explains

Who are the Houthis, the group attacking ships in the Red Sea?

The Yemeni rebel group is operating on the fringes of the Israel-Hamas war

The Economist explains

What is krav maga?

More people are learning the Israeli self-defence technique

The Economist explains

How Nayib Bukele is breaking presidential term limits in El Salvador

He subverts the system, but remains popular

The Economist explains

How Israel is using drones in Gaza

They help keep troops out of the line of fire—but can pose a risk to civilians

The Economist explains

What is antisemitism—and why do differences in interpretation matter?

Across the world, reports of the age-old prejudice have surged

The Economist explains

What does it take to expel an American congressman?

George Santos has joined a select group

The Economist explains

Why “offshoring” asylum-seekers rarely works

As caseloads rise in rich countries, governments are tempted to ship claimants abroad

The Economist explains

Who are the Palestinians in Israel’s prisons?

Hamas hopes to swap more for Israeli hostages

The Economist explains

Who is Geert Wilders, the surprise winner of the Dutch election?

The anti-Muslim populist has had a long career, but this is his best result yet