Google and Harvard have unveiled the most detailed-ever map of the human brain. In a post on X last week, Google said that research from its connectomics team and Harvard revealed "surprising new insights about our human brain, using scientific imaging and our advanced AI (Artificial Intelligence) algorithms.

Google and Harvard have unveiled the most detailed-ever map of the human brain. In a post on X last week, Google said that research from its connectomics team and Harvard revealed "surprising new insights about our human brain, using scientific imaging and our advanced AI (Artificial Intelligence) algorithms." "By combining brain imaging with AI-based image processing and analysis, our teams have reconstructed nearly every cell and all of its connections within a small volume of human brain tissue about half the size of a grain of rice," Google said in a blog post on X on May 11. "Though it's of a small region of the brain, this 3D mapping nonetheless requires a monumental 1.4 petabytes (1.4 million gigabytes) to encode," the American tech giant added. What Google and Harvard found Researchers at Harvard began their work by collecting thousands of extremely thin cross-sectional images from a donated brain sample. "The small piece of healthy brain had to be removed during surgery on a woman with epilepsy to allow surgeons to reach the part they needed to operate on. A small piece of that otherwise discarded tissue was preserved as part of an IRB-approved study for later analysis," the post said. Also read | Human trial of Elon Musk's Neuralink hits snag as brain chip begins to detach Researchers at Google developed advanced AI tools to construct an interactive 3D model of brain tissue. "The model underscores how complex the human brain is: describing just this small sample — one-millionth of the total human brain and about 3 mm long — requires more than a million Gigabytes of data: 1.4 Petabytes. This is the largest dataset ever made of human brain structure at this resolution," the post added. The one cubic millimetre tissue sample contained about 50,000 cells and about 150 million synapses — the points of connection where signals cross from one neuron to another. Whorls of Axons Google and Harvard pointed out that a curious finding of their research was the occurrence of “axon whorls.” Axons are the filamentous part of a nerve cell that carries a signal away from the cell. Also watch | New US bill takes aim at Neurotech industry, aims to protect consumer brain data × "There is still a lot more to observe and understand from our reconstruction of this piece of human brain, and we hope other researchers will use the data to make additional discoveries," the post further said. Scientists believe that by continuing research into the brain’s connections, they can eventually understand things like how memories form or what leads to neurological disorders and diseases like autism and Alzheimer’s. (With inputs from agencies)

Google, Harvard reveal new insights about human brain using AI. Here's how

Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain,&nbsp;an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system.

This groundbreaking endeavour has revealed new details of the structure that is comprised of billions of neurons to transmit information through electrical and chemical signals.

The study reportedly focused on a minuscule cubic millimetre of healthy brain tissue extracted from the cortex of a 45-year-old woman undergoing surgery for epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, brief changes in the brain's electrical activity.

Despite the small size of the tissue, it was a monumental task to map out its wiring diagram for neural circuitry, cellular connections, and vascular support.&nbsp;Using electron microscope images of over 5,000 tissue slices, the researchers unveiled a staggering 57,000 individual cells, 23 centimetres of blood vessels, and&nbsp;150 million neural connections.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/elon-musks-neuralink-human-trial-hits-snag-as-brain-chip-begins-to-detach-719880">Human trial of Elon Musk's Neuralink hits snag as brain chip begins to detach</a>

Professor Jeff Lichtman of molecular and cellular biology at Harvard University said,&nbsp;“The aim was to get a high-resolution view of this most mysterious piece of biology that each of us carries around on our shoulders."

“The reason we haven’t done it before is that it is damn challenging. It really was enormously hard to do this," said Lichtman added.&nbsp;

By employing machine learning algorithms, the team meticulously traced the pathways of neurons and other cells through the tissue sections, a process that would have taken humans years to accomplish manually. The resulting dataset, comprising 1.4 petabytes of data, revealed numerous findings and challenged existing understandings of brain structure and function.

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“We found many things in this dataset that are not in the textbooks,” Lichtman said.&nbsp;

<h2>Pyramidal neurons</h2>

In the study, one of the intriguing discoveries were of pyramidal neurons that exhibited an unexpected symmetry in their dendritic branching. In addition to this, the presence of tightly wound axon bundles gave details into signal transmission within the brain.&nbsp;

Watch | With ultra-processed foods, one is at higher risk of premature death: Study

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While the prospect of mapping the entire human brain remains daunting, the team is embarking on a collaborative effort with Google to reconstruct the wiring of an entire mouse brain. This endeavour aims to elucidate the neural circuits governing behaviour and decision-making.&nbsp;

“There are really wonderful opportunities, if you have a whole mouse brain, to get insight into free will, even... You know, a mouse is not a robot,"&nbsp;Lichtman said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain, an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system.

Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain, an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system. This groundbreaking endeavour has revealed new details of the structure that is comprised of billions of neurons to transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. The study reportedly focused on a minuscule cubic millimetre of healthy brain tissue extracted from the cortex of a 45-year-old woman undergoing surgery for epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, brief changes in the brain's electrical activity. Despite the small size of the tissue, it was a monumental task to map out its wiring diagram for neural circuitry, cellular connections, and vascular support. Using electron microscope images of over 5,000 tissue slices, the researchers unveiled a staggering 57,000 individual cells, 23 centimetres of blood vessels, and 150 million neural connections. Also Read | Human trial of Elon Musk's Neuralink hits snag as brain chip begins to detach Professor Jeff Lichtman of molecular and cellular biology at Harvard University said, “The aim was to get a high-resolution view of this most mysterious piece of biology that each of us carries around on our shoulders." “The reason we haven’t done it before is that it is damn challenging. It really was enormously hard to do this," said Lichtman added. By employing machine learning algorithms, the team meticulously traced the pathways of neurons and other cells through the tissue sections, a process that would have taken humans years to accomplish manually. The resulting dataset, comprising 1.4 petabytes of data, revealed numerous findings and challenged existing understandings of brain structure and function. Also Read | Consumption of olive oil could lower risk of dying from dementia: Study “We found many things in this dataset that are not in the textbooks,” Lichtman said. Pyramidal neurons In the study, one of the intriguing discoveries were of pyramidal neurons that exhibited an unexpected symmetry in their dendritic branching. In addition to this, the presence of tightly wound axon bundles gave details into signal transmission within the brain. Watch | With ultra-processed foods, one is at higher risk of premature death: Study × While the prospect of mapping the entire human brain remains daunting, the team is embarking on a collaborative effort with Google to reconstruct the wiring of an entire mouse brain. This endeavour aims to elucidate the neural circuits governing behaviour and decision-making. “There are really wonderful opportunities, if you have a whole mouse brain, to get insight into free will, even... You know, a mouse is not a robot," Lichtman said. (With inputs from agencies)

A tiny section of human brain reveals astounding 57,000 cells, 150mn neural connections

The demand for one of the world's most prestigious educational institutions seems to be dimming Harvard University is witnessing a significant drop in annual applications for the second consecutive year.

US: Dip in annual applications at Harvard, tensions on the rise at campus due to Israel-Hamas war

US: 5% dip in number of annual applications | Most prestigious college losing its sheen?

Harvard: Most prestigious college losing its sheen?

Moving on the Indian government has dismissed a Harvard University study which claims that at least 6.7 million children in India are without food. The report was first rejected by the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council and now the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development says the report is a deliberate and malicious attempt to sensationalize fake news.

Indian govt claims Harvard study ignores importance of breast milk, 'Harvard didn't use public data'

Indian government says Harvard Study is an attempt to spread fake news

Claudine Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she'd been subjected to personal threats and 'racial animus' Watch the video to know more!

Harvard President resigns amid rows over plagiarism, Anti-Semitism

Billionaire hedge-fund manager Bill Ackman has ignited a political storm with his accusations of anti-Semitism and plagiarism against Claudine Gay, Harvard's first Black president. Known for founding Pershing Square Capital Management, Ackman's high-profile financial manoeuvres have seen both significant gains and losses. His recent alignment with conservative groups has sparked criticism and accusations of racial bias in his campaign against Gay.

Claudine Gay plagiarism row: Bill Ackman's wife apologises for plagiarism in her dissertation

Claudine Gay plagiarism row: Accuser Bill Ackman advocated for Gay's exit from Harvard | WION

Harvard University President quits after plagiarism claims

The president of&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Claudine Gay was criticized in recent months after reports surfaced alleging that she did not properly cite scholarly sources. The most recent accusations came Tuesday, published anonymously in a conservative online outlet.

Gay was also engulfed by scandal after she declined to say unequivocally whether calling for genocide of Jews would violate&nbsp;Harvard's code of conduct, during testimony to Congress alongside the heads of MIT and the University of Pennsylvania last month.

Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she'd been subjected to personal threats and "racial animus."

Her downfall comes after the university's governing&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Corporation had initially backed her after the public relations disaster of the congressional testimony.

But the body did criticize the university's initial response to the Hamas October 7 attacks that Israel said killed 1,140 people inside Israel and saw around 240 people taken hostage.

Israel's offensive has reduced much of Gaza to rubble and killed at least 22,185 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>'Racist vitriol'&nbsp;</h2>

More than 70 lawmakers, including two Democrats, demanded her resignation, while a number of high-profile&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;alumni and donors also called for her departure.

Still, more than 700&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;faculty members had signed a letter supporting Gay and her job had appeared to be safe.

The resignation, first reported by the student-run newspaper the&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Crimson, was confirmed shortly after by Gay herself.

"It is with a heavy heart but a deep love for&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;that I write to share that I will be stepping down as president," Gay said in a statement.

Gay also wrote that she had faced threats to her safety and "racial animus" in the wake of the furore over her handling of claims of mounting anti-Semitism on campus.

The university's governing&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;Corporation said that Gay had "shown remarkable resilience in the face of deeply personal and sustained attacks."&nbsp;

"While some of this has played out in the public domain, much of it has taken the form of repugnant and in some cases racist vitriol directed at her through disgraceful emails and phone calls. We condemn such attacks."

In the United States, the anti-Semitism on campus controversy came amid a rise in attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims, including at universities, since the Israel-Hamas war erupted.

The president of another elite Ivy League institution, the University of Pennsylvania, had already been forced to resign.

The House Republican who challenged Gay out during her testimony with the question about whether free speech extended to calling for genocide of Jews celebrated the latest academic's downfall.

"Harvard&nbsp;knows that this long overdue forced resignation of the antisemitic plagiarist president is just the beginning of what will be the greatest scandal of any college or university in history," said Representative Elise Stefanik.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, a close US ally, has claimed that a "whopping wave of anti-Semitism" has "seeped onto university campuses."

Yad Vashem, Israel's official Holocaust memorial, has described it as a "cancer."

Former student and multi-million-dollar donor Bill Ackman claimed in a letter to&nbsp;Harvard's governing boards that "President Gay's failures have led to billions of dollars of cancelled, paused, and withdrawn donations to the university."

Gay, 53, was born in New York to Haitian immigrants and is a professor of political science who in July became the first Black president of 368-year-old&nbsp;Harvard.

"Leadership failure and denial of anti-Semitism have a price. Hope glorious&nbsp;Harvard&nbsp;University learns from this dismal conduct," wrote new Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in response to Gay's departure.

The president of Harvard University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The president of Harvard University resigned Tuesday after coming under ferocious attack over plagiarism accusations and her response to anti-Semitism on campus amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Claudine Gay was criticized in recent months after reports surfaced alleging that she did not properly cite scholarly sources. The most recent accusations came Tuesday, published anonymously in a conservative online outlet. Gay was also engulfed by scandal after she declined to say unequivocally whether calling for genocide of Jews would violate Harvard's code of conduct, during testimony to Congress alongside the heads of MIT and the University of Pennsylvania last month. Gay, who made history as the first Black person to be president of the powerhouse university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said in her resignation letter that she'd been subjected to personal threats and "racial animus." Her downfall comes after the university's governing Harvard Corporation had initially backed her after the public relations disaster of the congressional testimony. But the body did criticize the university's initial response to the Hamas October 7 attacks that Israel said killed 1,140 people inside Israel and saw around 240 people taken hostage. Israel's offensive has reduced much of Gaza to rubble and killed at least 22,185 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry. 'Racist vitriol' More than 70 lawmakers, including two Democrats, demanded her resignation, while a number of high-profile Harvard alumni and donors also called for her departure. Still, more than 700 Harvard faculty members had signed a letter supporting Gay and her job had appeared to be safe. The resignation, first reported by the student-run newspaper the Harvard Crimson, was confirmed shortly after by Gay herself. "It is with a heavy heart but a deep love for Harvard that I write to share that I will be stepping down as president," Gay said in a statement. Gay also wrote that she had faced threats to her safety and "racial animus" in the wake of the furore over her handling of claims of mounting anti-Semitism on campus. The university's governing Harvard Corporation said that Gay had "shown remarkable resilience in the face of deeply personal and sustained attacks." "While some of this has played out in the public domain, much of it has taken the form of repugnant and in some cases racist vitriol directed at her through disgraceful emails and phone calls. We condemn such attacks." In the United States, the anti-Semitism on campus controversy came amid a rise in attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims, including at universities, since the Israel-Hamas war erupted. The president of another elite Ivy League institution, the University of Pennsylvania, had already been forced to resign. The House Republican who challenged Gay out during her testimony with the question about whether free speech extended to calling for genocide of Jews celebrated the latest academic's downfall. "Harvard knows that this long overdue forced resignation of the antisemitic plagiarist president is just the beginning of what will be the greatest scandal of any college or university in history," said Representative Elise Stefanik. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, a close US ally, has claimed that a "whopping wave of anti-Semitism" has "seeped onto university campuses." Yad Vashem, Israel's official Holocaust memorial, has described it as a "cancer." Former student and multi-million-dollar donor Bill Ackman claimed in a letter to Harvard's governing boards that "President Gay's failures have led to billions of dollars of cancelled, paused, and withdrawn donations to the university." Gay, 53, was born in New York to Haitian immigrants and is a professor of political science who in July became the first Black president of 368-year-old Harvard. "Leadership failure and denial of anti-Semitism have a price. Hope glorious Harvard University learns from this dismal conduct," wrote new Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in response to Gay's departure.

Harvard president resigns after row over plagiarism, antisemitism

Harvard's first Black president, Claudine Gay, resigned after criticism regarding her response to anti-semitism on campus. Gay is the second Ivy League president to resign in the past month following the congressional testimony.

Harvard President Claudine Gay quits amid row over response on anti-semitism

Harvard President Claudine Gay resigns amid rows over anti-semitism

Harvard University president Claudine Gay has been accused of plagiarism by a U.S. Congressional committee. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Harvard University President Claudine Gay accused of plagiarism

Harvard President Claudine Gay under microscope over plagiarism. According to reports, Gay committed plagiarism as a student. Plagiarism discovered in Gay's Doctoral Dissertation.

Harvard President scholarly work under microscope over plagiarism

Harvard President Claudine Gay's scholarly work under microscope over plagiarism

Harvard President Claudine Gay under microscope over plagiarism. Plagiarism discovered in Gay's Doctoral Dissertation. According to reports, Gay committed plagiarism as a student.

Harvard President Caludine Gay under scanner over plagiarism

The Republican-led Committee on Education and the Workforce announced plans to expand its investigation into Dr. Gay's handling of antisemitism on Harvard's campus. Chairwoman Virginia Foxx stated that the investigation would look into whether students and faculty are held to the same academic standard.

Claudine Gay: Congress investigates Harvard President's alleged plagiarism

The Israel-Hamas war, which is intensifying with each passing day, has ignited tensions in many university campuses across the United States. Two universities in particular - Harvard and UPenn (University of Pennsylvania) have been in the spotlight for rising antisemitism on campus after the war started on October 7.

The Israel-Hamas war, which is intensifying with each passing day, has ignited tensions in many university campuses across the United States. Two universities in particular - Harvard and UPenn (University of Pennsylvania) have been in the spotlight for rising antisemitism on campus after the war started on October 7. Last Tuesday (Dec 5), lawmakers launched an investigation into antisemitism at Harvard, UPenn, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) over whether student protests calling for the genocide of Jews amounted to harassment. Harvard President Claudine Gay, UPenn President Liz Magill who resigned later, and MIT President Sally Kornbluth were grilled during a hearing in the House of Representatives on whether pro-Palestinian student activists calling for "Jewish genocide" violated their codes of conduct on harassment, but all three equivocated, claiming it would depend on the context. Also read: University of Pennsylvania president steps down amid antisemitism backlash on campus The trio gave long, legalistic, and seemingly evasive answers at the hearing. Since the conflict started, hate crimes targeting Jews and Muslims also increased in the US. With tensions spreading in universities, a broader debate has taken place about the boundaries between freedom of speech and deeply offensive, even inflammatory language. The criticism and calls to resign Harvard The presidents of all three universities (Harvard, MIT, and UPenn) were severely criticised over the antisemitism row. According to a report by the news agency AFP, donors at Harvard called for President Claudine Gay to offer more explicit support for Israel and condemnation of student groups who have voiced support for the Palestinian people. There were also calls for Gay to step down from the top post. Last Tuesday, Gay testified before the House Education Committee at a hearing dedicated to holding campus leaders accountable for antisemitic incidents. At the hearing, Republican lawmaker Elise Stefanik likened student calls for a new intifada to inciting "genocide against the Jewish people in Israel and globally." When Stefanik asked Gay if such calls would violate the university's code of conduct, the Harvard president replied, "We embrace a commitment to free expression even of views that are objectionable, offensive, hateful. When speech crosses into conduct that violates our policies, including policies against bullying, harassment or intimidation, we take action." Also read: Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US The Republican lawmaker called on Gay to immediately resign while Republican Senator Ted Cruz called the comments "disgraceful." Two days later, Gay apologised for her remarks. "What I should have had the presence of mind to do in that moment was return to my guiding truth, which is that calls for violence against our Jewish community -- threats to our Jewish students -- have no place at Harvard, and will never go unchallenged," she told The Harvard Crimson. UPenn Last Saturday, UPenn's President Liz Magill voluntarily tendered her resignation following her criticism during Tuesday's hearing. On Tuesday, Stefanik asked the same question to Magill if the calling of genocide violated university rules or codes of conduct, Magill said, "If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment, yes." "I am asking, specifically calling for the genocide of Jews, does that constitute bullying or harassment?" the Republican lawmaker pressed on. "If it is directed and severe, pervasive, it is harassment," Magill said. "So the answer is yes," Stefanik queried. Also read: NYU students seen tearing down posters of young Israeli children kidnapped by Hamas. Watch! "It is a context-dependent decision, congresswoman," Magill responded. After hearing similar answers from others, Stefanik told Magill, "It does not depend on the context. The answer is yes, and this is why you should resign." Though she stepped down, Magill would stay in her post until an interim president was appointed and would remain on the faculty of the university's law school. Apart from Magill, UPenn's board of trustees Scott Bok also announced his resignation. MIT Just like her counterparts at Harvard and UPenn, MIT President Sally Kornbluth faced calls to quit following last Tuesday's hearing. During the hearing, Kornbluth, the only Jewish university president to testify, said, "I know some Israeli and Jewish students feel unsafe on campus.” "As they bear the horror of the Hamas attacks and the history of antisemitism, these students have been pained by chants in recent demonstrations,” she said. Later in the hearing, Kornbluth also advocated for increased Holocaust education as an antidote to antisemitism. A report by the Times of Israel said that at MIT, critics from both sides of the Israel-Palestine debate went after Kornbluth for partially suspending students who participated in a disruptive pro-Palestinian protest on campus. However, her action was not a topic of discussion during the hearing. “The MIT administration, namely President Sally Kornbluth, has failed to address the crisis of rampant antisemitism on campus,” Jewish MIT graduate student Talia Khan told the publication. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Amid Israel-Hamas war, head rolls in turmoil at top US universities over antisemitism row

Harvard University is set to explore the captivating world of Taylor Swift through a new course titled "Taylor Swift and Her World," diving into the intricacies of her music, lyrics, and cultural impact. Professor Stephanie Burt will lead the course, delving into how Swift's work has not only shaped the music industry but also influenced artists, writers, and today's youth.

The curriculum will unravel Swift's influence on contemporary culture, with a particular focus on her recent Eras Tour, underscoring her substantial impact on the younger generation.&nbsp; Entertainment Weekly reports that another university, the University of Florida, is offering a course titled "Musical Storytelling with Taylor Swift and Other Iconic Female Artists," led by Melina Jimenez. This broader exploration includes legendary figures like Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, and Dolly Parton.

Harvard and the University of Florida join a growing list of institutions recognising the cultural significance of Taylor Swift. Ghent University in Belgium, the University of Texas at Austin, Berklee College of Music, and the University of California are among those offering specialised courses dedicated to unravelling the impact of Swift's music and influence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ysl-rico-trial-all-you-need-to-know-about-young-thugs-complex-legal-battle-wion-explains-663768">YSL RICO Trial: All you need to know about Young Thug's complex legal battle | WION Explains</a>

Professor Stephanie Burt, as reported by Harvard Crimson, expressed the timeliness of such a course, stating, "We are lucky enough to be living in a time when one of our major artists is also one of the most famous people on the planet. Why would you not have a course on that?"

Whether through her insightful talks or chart-topping songs, Swift's presence continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on her growing fan base. The global music icon&nbsp;has set numerous records for album sales, streaming traffic, and accolades. Her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level makes her an intriguing subject for academic exploration.

Swift is not the sole artist to be honoured with a university course. Earlier a course on former One Direction member Harry Styles was offered by Texas State University. UC Berkley also offered a course on Nicki Minaj. Meanwhile, San Diego State has previously rolled out a class on Bad Bunny.

Harvard University is set to explore the captivating world of Taylor Swift through a new course titled "Taylor Swift and Her World," diving into the intricacies of her music, lyrics, and cultural impact.

Harvard University is set to explore the captivating world of Taylor Swift through a new course titled "Taylor Swift and Her World," diving into the intricacies of her music, lyrics, and cultural impact. Professor Stephanie Burt will lead the course, delving into how Swift's work has not only shaped the music industry but also influenced artists, writers, and today's youth. The curriculum will unravel Swift's influence on contemporary culture, with a particular focus on her recent Eras Tour, underscoring her substantial impact on the younger generation. Entertainment Weekly reports that another university, the University of Florida, is offering a course titled "Musical Storytelling with Taylor Swift and Other Iconic Female Artists," led by Melina Jimenez. This broader exploration includes legendary figures like Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, and Dolly Parton. Harvard and the University of Florida join a growing list of institutions recognising the cultural significance of Taylor Swift. Ghent University in Belgium, the University of Texas at Austin, Berklee College of Music, and the University of California are among those offering specialised courses dedicated to unravelling the impact of Swift's music and influence. Also read: YSL RICO Trial: All you need to know about Young Thug's complex legal battle | WION Explains Professor Stephanie Burt, as reported by Harvard Crimson, expressed the timeliness of such a course, stating, "We are lucky enough to be living in a time when one of our major artists is also one of the most famous people on the planet. Why would you not have a course on that?" Whether through her insightful talks or chart-topping songs, Swift's presence continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on her growing fan base. The global music icon has set numerous records for album sales, streaming traffic, and accolades. Her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level makes her an intriguing subject for academic exploration. Swift is not the sole artist to be honoured with a university course. Earlier a course on former One Direction member Harry Styles was offered by Texas State University. UC Berkley also offered a course on Nicki Minaj. Meanwhile, San Diego State has previously rolled out a class on Bad Bunny.

Harvard University launches course dedicated to Taylor Swift's music, impact, cultural influence

Aliens and UFOs are phenomena that are an obsession for scientists and space fanatics alike. Just days ago Mexico's Congress was presented with corpses being claimed as alien remains. Questions were raised on the validity of the corpses. To understand this mystery better watch this interview with Harvard professor Dr Loeb.

Harvard professor Dr Avi Loeb decodes the alien mystery

In the United States, a complaint filed on Monday with the Department of Education revealed that the process of legacy admissions at Harvard University has been challenged by a civil rights group. This comes just a few days after the Supreme Court struck down the decades-long practice of affirmative action.

The rights group has accused the process of basically discriminating against students of colour by giving an unfair advantage to others, mostly white kids of alumni.&nbsp;

Lawyers for Civil Rights, which is a nonprofit based in Boston, filed the civil rights complaint on behalf of Black and Latino community groups in New England.&nbsp;

The group has alleged that the education institution's admissions system violates the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by giving preference based on wealth and status.&nbsp;

As quoted by US-based media reports, the groups said in the complaint that "each year, Harvard College grants special preference in its admissions process to hundreds of mostly White students — not because of anything they have accomplished, but rather solely because of who their relatives are".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/too-soon-subways-insensitive-our-subs-dont-implode-sign-after-titan-tragedy-invites-criticism-611933">Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens</a>&nbsp;

A survey from Pew Research Center found in March 2022 that around 75 per cent&nbsp;of US adults believe that whether a relative attended a school should not be a factor in college admissions decisions.&nbsp;

As quoted by reports, Ivan Espinoza-Madrigal, who is the executive director of Lawyers for Civil Rights and also handling the case, said that "Why are we rewarding children for privileges and advantages accrued by prior generations?"&nbsp;

Ivan added, "Your family's last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process."&nbsp;

Around 70 per cent&nbsp;of Harvard's donor-related and legacy applicants are white, records have revealed and also mentioned that being a legacy student makes an applicant roughly six times more likely to be admitted.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian consulate in San Francisco set on fire by Khalistan supporters&nbsp;

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The complaint mentioned that "a spot given to a legacy or donor-related applicant is a spot that becomes unavailable to an applicant who meets the admissions criteria based purely on his or her own merit" and further added that if legacy and donor preferences were removed, it will provide "more students of colour would be admitted to Harvard".&nbsp;

The university said in a prepared statement, "Last week, the University reaffirmed its commitment to the fundamental principle that deep and transformative teaching, learning, and research depend upon a community comprising people of many backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences. As we said, in the weeks and months ahead, the University will determine how to preserve our essential values, consistent with the Court's new precedent."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the United States, a complaint filed on Monday with the Department of Education revealed that the process of legacy admissions at Harvard University has been challenged by a civil rights group.

In the United States, a complaint filed on Monday with the Department of Education revealed that the process of legacy admissions at Harvard University has been challenged by a civil rights group. This comes just a few days after the Supreme Court struck down the decades-long practice of affirmative action. The rights group has accused the process of basically discriminating against students of colour by giving an unfair advantage to others, mostly white kids of alumni. Lawyers for Civil Rights, which is a nonprofit based in Boston, filed the civil rights complaint on behalf of Black and Latino community groups in New England. The group has alleged that the education institution's admissions system violates the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by giving preference based on wealth and status. As quoted by US-based media reports, the groups said in the complaint that "each year, Harvard College grants special preference in its admissions process to hundreds of mostly White students — not because of anything they have accomplished, but rather solely because of who their relatives are". Also read: Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens A survey from Pew Research Center found in March 2022 that around 75 per cent of US adults believe that whether a relative attended a school should not be a factor in college admissions decisions. As quoted by reports, Ivan Espinoza-Madrigal, who is the executive director of Lawyers for Civil Rights and also handling the case, said that "Why are we rewarding children for privileges and advantages accrued by prior generations?" Ivan added, "Your family's last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process." Around 70 per cent of Harvard's donor-related and legacy applicants are white, records have revealed and also mentioned that being a legacy student makes an applicant roughly six times more likely to be admitted. Watch: Indian consulate in San Francisco set on fire by Khalistan supporters × Also read: UN declares onset of El Nino, says it'll break temperature records The complaint mentioned that "a spot given to a legacy or donor-related applicant is a spot that becomes unavailable to an applicant who meets the admissions criteria based purely on his or her own merit" and further added that if legacy and donor preferences were removed, it will provide "more students of colour would be admitted to Harvard". The university said in a prepared statement, "Last week, the University reaffirmed its commitment to the fundamental principle that deep and transformative teaching, learning, and research depend upon a community comprising people of many backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences. As we said, in the weeks and months ahead, the University will determine how to preserve our essential values, consistent with the Court's new precedent." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rights group challenges legacy admissions at Harvard University that often favour whites

This week’s US Supreme Court verdict that has ruled against race/ethnicity-linked admission quotas in elite institutions like Harvard University has come at the right moment for both US and India. It makes sense to examine occasionally if not frequently the pros and cons of quotas and affirmative action to support underprivileged sections and communities to see what works and doesn't -- and test it against the underlying principles for which they were brought into force. 
 
The US verdict came in a week during which I have been engaged in an online debate of sorts on affirmative action after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US that triggered questions on the state of minority Muslims in India. I had remarked that it is perhaps more appropriate to compare India's Muslims with America's blacks though one is a religious minority and the other a racial one. 
 
But that can only apply in terms of numerical minority and how much they are integrated in mainstream society based on current ideas of discrimination and equality. If one is to look at affirmative action to make up for historical injustice then it is more appropriate to compare the African Americans of the US with the Dalits of India. Dalits have been victims of untouchability as well as restrictions that confined them to menial work in a caste system that resembles America's slave system. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-race-conscious-admissions-programs-at-harvard-unc-610243">ALSO READ| 'I strongly disagree', says Biden after US Supreme Court strikes down race-based admissions programmes</a> 
 
The problem is that the current political movement for affirmative action (wokeism, if you will) often demands quotas and access not as corrective aids but as some sort of entitlement. That gets trickier when you ask if a government job is a means to an income, a position of power or a public service responsibility. 
 
When it comes to education it gets murky. We can think of scholarships, fellowships or freeships to boost education but isn't it asking for too much if the highest centres of learning such as Harvard University are dictated by political criteria that reek of what one might call ‘revenge entitlement’? More important, what is the ethical content in affirmative action and how do you measure it? 
&nbsp; 
Imagine America's whites demanding quotas in NBA basketball teams or jazz bands that make blacks look so good. I am saying all this only to emphasise that there are no easy answers to some questions in a world in which merit and recognition can be of various types and aptitudes. (Er, why are female supermodels larger in number than men and why do they tend to get paid more?) 
 
This is why we need judicial intervention to assess concepts in which political overkill can upset some common ideas of justice. But jurisprudence itself is a political idea based on ethics and values and tends to vary with time and space. You can go around in circles on this. 
 
India's constitution is more progressive than that of the US as it promises social justice. In the US, affirmative action is a current fashion driven by recent political awakening whereas India has baked it into the Constitution. When India’s equality-prone Constitution was alive and kicking in the 1950s, America’s blacks were still fighting for civil rights like sitting in a bus next to a white man.

India's definition of 'other backward classes (OBCs) includes both non-Dalit Hindu communities (castes) as well as socially and educationally laggard Muslim communities. India's Supreme Court has already ruled in favour of OBC quotas but cautioned against its "creamy layer" usurping it.&nbsp; 
 
How does one measure creamy layers? That is where the executive administration needs to strike a balance between the principles of the legislature (political) and the judiciary. In simple terms, we need to revisit the idea of affirmative action time and again to calibrate policies and measure outcomes. 
 
Former US president Barack Obama has come out against the Supreme Court verdict but was candid about the limits of affirmative action when he said in an interview that the political problems with turning the argument for reparations into reality were manifold. 
 
&nbsp;“If you look at countries like South Africa, where you had a black majority, there have been efforts to tax and help that black majority, but it hasn’t come in the form of a formal reparations program. You have countries like India that have tried to help untouchables, with essentially affirmative-action programs, but it hasn’t fundamentally changed the structure of their societies. So the bottom line is that it’s hard to find a model...' 
 
Personally, I believe in what I call the Staircase Principle: One step at a time. If a larger number of blacks or Dalits are given free and compulsory state-funded junior school education with incentives to study, it helps more people move up in society as a whole. Individual spirit, excellence and hard work always play a role in upward mobility. Broader interventions at the bottom of the social and economic pyramids work better than top-level quotas that reek of entitlement while touching the lives of fewer people. When a whole community needs affirmative action, why should only a few from it benefit?&nbsp; 
 
A broader intervention at the lower levels also works better to gain votes in a democracy. The wider the field of action, the more the number of people that benefit from affirmative action and the higher the electoral endorsement for the party or group that does it. 
 
Freeships, scholarships and special education programmes seem a better choice if you regard administration and management jobs as a responsibility when it comes to work. 
 
However, caste discrimination in India and racial discrimination in the US also involve the denial of opportunities by prejudiced incumbents in positions of responsibility – and are cited as the reason for diversity-based inclusion at the top level. That also requires separate treatment and social reform involving elements of empathy and fair access to resources and ethically strong administration. That's another story.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. 
 
&nbsp;

This week’s US Supreme Court verdict that has ruled against race/ethnicity-linked admission quotas in elite institutions like Harvard University has come at the right moment for both US and India.

This week’s US Supreme Court verdict that has ruled against race/ethnicity-linked admission quotas in elite institutions like Harvard University has come at the right moment for both US and India. It makes sense to examine occasionally if not frequently the pros and cons of quotas and affirmative action to support underprivileged sections and communities to see what works and doesn't -- and test it against the underlying principles for which they were brought into force. The US verdict came in a week during which I have been engaged in an online debate of sorts on affirmative action after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US that triggered questions on the state of minority Muslims in India. I had remarked that it is perhaps more appropriate to compare India's Muslims with America's blacks though one is a religious minority and the other a racial one. But that can only apply in terms of numerical minority and how much they are integrated in mainstream society based on current ideas of discrimination and equality. If one is to look at affirmative action to make up for historical injustice then it is more appropriate to compare the African Americans of the US with the Dalits of India. Dalits have been victims of untouchability as well as restrictions that confined them to menial work in a caste system that resembles America's slave system. ALSO READ| 'I strongly disagree', says Biden after US Supreme Court strikes down race-based admissions programmes The problem is that the current political movement for affirmative action (wokeism, if you will) often demands quotas and access not as corrective aids but as some sort of entitlement. That gets trickier when you ask if a government job is a means to an income, a position of power or a public service responsibility. When it comes to education it gets murky. We can think of scholarships, fellowships or freeships to boost education but isn't it asking for too much if the highest centres of learning such as Harvard University are dictated by political criteria that reek of what one might call ‘revenge entitlement’? More important, what is the ethical content in affirmative action and how do you measure it? Imagine America's whites demanding quotas in NBA basketball teams or jazz bands that make blacks look so good. I am saying all this only to emphasise that there are no easy answers to some questions in a world in which merit and recognition can be of various types and aptitudes. (Er, why are female supermodels larger in number than men and why do they tend to get paid more?) This is why we need judicial intervention to assess concepts in which political overkill can upset some common ideas of justice. But jurisprudence itself is a political idea based on ethics and values and tends to vary with time and space. You can go around in circles on this. India's constitution is more progressive than that of the US as it promises social justice. In the US, affirmative action is a current fashion driven by recent political awakening whereas India has baked it into the Constitution. When India’s equality-prone Constitution was alive and kicking in the 1950s, America’s blacks were still fighting for civil rights like sitting in a bus next to a white man. India's definition of 'other backward classes (OBCs) includes both non-Dalit Hindu communities (castes) as well as socially and educationally laggard Muslim communities. India's Supreme Court has already ruled in favour of OBC quotas but cautioned against its "creamy layer" usurping it. How does one measure creamy layers? That is where the executive administration needs to strike a balance between the principles of the legislature (political) and the judiciary. In simple terms, we need to revisit the idea of affirmative action time and again to calibrate policies and measure outcomes. Former US president Barack Obama has come out against the Supreme Court verdict but was candid about the limits of affirmative action when he said in an interview that the political problems with turning the argument for reparations into reality were manifold. “If you look at countries like South Africa, where you had a black majority, there have been efforts to tax and help that black majority, but it hasn’t come in the form of a formal reparations program. You have countries like India that have tried to help untouchables, with essentially affirmative-action programs, but it hasn’t fundamentally changed the structure of their societies. So the bottom line is that it’s hard to find a model...' Personally, I believe in what I call the Staircase Principle: One step at a time. If a larger number of blacks or Dalits are given free and compulsory state-funded junior school education with incentives to study, it helps more people move up in society as a whole. Individual spirit, excellence and hard work always play a role in upward mobility. Broader interventions at the bottom of the social and economic pyramids work better than top-level quotas that reek of entitlement while touching the lives of fewer people. When a whole community needs affirmative action, why should only a few from it benefit? A broader intervention at the lower levels also works better to gain votes in a democracy. The wider the field of action, the more the number of people that benefit from affirmative action and the higher the electoral endorsement for the party or group that does it. Freeships, scholarships and special education programmes seem a better choice if you regard administration and management jobs as a responsibility when it comes to work. However, caste discrimination in India and racial discrimination in the US also involve the denial of opportunities by prejudiced incumbents in positions of responsibility – and are cited as the reason for diversity-based inclusion at the top level. That also requires separate treatment and social reform involving elements of empathy and fair access to resources and ethically strong administration. That's another story. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Race, caste and affirmative action: US verdict raises the right questions

US President Joe Biden on Thursday rebuked the country's Supreme Court for striking down&nbsp;race-conscious student admissions programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina (UNC), media reports said.

Biden in a tweet said that he "strongly disagrees" with the ruling. "For decades, the Supreme Court recognised a college’s freedom to decide how to build a diverse student body and provide opportunity. Today, the Court walked away from precedent, effectively ending affirmative action in higher education. I strongly disagree with this decision," the tweet read.&nbsp;

"Our colleges are stronger when they are racially diverse. And America is stronger because we are tapping into our full range of talent. Today's Supreme Court decision is not the last word," it added.&nbsp;

This comes after the decision by the apex court dealt a significant blow to affirmative action policies which aimed at increasing diversity on college campuses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The court's conservative justices, with dissenting opinions from the liberal justices, voted in favour of Students for Fair Admissions, an organisation led by anti-affirmative action activist Edward Blum. The organisation had challenged the admissions policies of these prestigious institutions.

<h2>US Supreme Court decision</h2>

The court's decision was a 6-3 vote against UNC and a 6-2 vote against Harvard.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-court-declares-govts-plan-to-send-migrants-to-rwanda-unlawful-610088">British court declares govt’s plan to send migrants to Rwanda unlawful</a>

Chief Justice John Roberts, for the majority, stated that the admissions programs at both universities violated the Equal Protection Clause of the US &nbsp;Constitution, emphasising that students should be evaluated as individuals rather than based on their race.&nbsp;

Roberts clarified that this ruling does not prohibit universities from discussing an applicant's personal experiences with race biases.&nbsp;

Roberts said that students "must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual, not on the basis of race. Many universities have for too long done just the opposite. And in doing so, they have concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the colour of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-man-jailed-for-smuggling-800-people-into-us-using-uber-610082">Indian-Origin man jailed for smuggling over 800 Indians into US using Uber</a>

"At the same time," Roberts said, "as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant's discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise."

<h2>Support towards affirmative action</h2>

Affirmative action has been supported by numerous educational institutions, corporations, and military leaders as a means to address racial inequities and foster diverse perspectives in workplaces and the armed forces.&nbsp;

<h2>Dissenting opinions</h2>

However, the court's decision is seen as a setback to these efforts.

Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor voiced her dissent. She argued that the ruling undermines the constitutional guarantee of equal protection and perpetuates racial inequality in education.&nbsp;

Watch | Tarang shakti, India's largest multilateral air exercise to be held this year

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"Today, this Court stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress," she wrote in a dissent. She was joined by Jackson and Liberal Justice Elena Kagan.

<h2>Legal challenges and background</h2>

Blum's organisation filed lawsuits in 2014, alleging that UNC and Harvard discriminated against white, Asian American, and other non-underrepresented minority applicants.&nbsp;

The lawsuits argued that UNC's admissions policy violated the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection, while Harvard's policy violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The Supreme Court's conservative shift since 2016, along with the appointment of three justices by former President Donald Trump, provided an opportunity to reconsider previous rulings on race-conscious admissions policies.

<h2>World leaders react over&nbsp;court's decision&nbsp;</h2>

Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have also reacted over this key ruling by US Supreme Court. They joined the list of several other top Democrats who were quick to respond to the now-struck-down policy&nbsp;of the universities.&nbsp;

<h2>The Obamas</h2>

Michelle Obama, the former first lady, shared her personal experience of being one of the few Black students on her college campus.&nbsp;

In a statement shared on her Twitter account, she expressed her sadness for young individuals who may be uncertain about their future after the apex court's ruling. "Today, my heart breaks for any young person out there who's wondering what their future holds — and what kinds of chances will be open to them."

"Today is a reminder that we've got to do the work not just to enact policies that reflect our values of equity and fairness, but to truly make those values real in all of our schools, workplaces, and neighbourhood," she said in the statement.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Barack Obama responded,&nbsp;"Affirmative action was never a complete answer in the drive towards a more just society. But for generations of students who had been systematically excluded from most of America’s key institutions—it gave us the chance to show we more than deserved a seat at the table. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent decision, it’s time to redouble our efforts."&nbsp;

<h2>Trump calls ruling 'a great day for America'</h2>

In a clear show of support for the Supreme Court's ruling, former US President Donald Trump called the decision by the apex court "a great day for America."

"This is the ruling everyone was waiting and hoping for and the result was amazing. It will also keep us competitive with the rest of the world. Our greatest minds must be cherished and that’s what this wonderful day has brought. We’re going back to all merit-based—and that’s the way it should be!" he told a media outlet.

<h2>Republicans&nbsp;</h2>

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis tweeted the Supreme Court has correctly upheld the constitution and ended discrimination by colleges and universities. "College admissions should be based on merit and applicants should not be judged on their race or ethnicity," he wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

South Carolina Senator Tim Scott also backed the ruling and told Fox News, "This is a good day for America. Honestly, this is the day where we understand that being judged by the content of our character, not the colour of our skin is what our constitution wants. We are continuing to work on forming this more perfect union. Today is better than yesterday, this year better than last year, this decade better than last decade. The progress that we're seeing in this nation is palpable."&nbsp;

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US President Joe Biden on Thursday rebuked the country's Supreme Court for striking down race-conscious student admissions programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina (UNC), media reports said.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday rebuked the country's Supreme Court for striking down race-conscious student admissions programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina (UNC), media reports said. Biden in a tweet said that he "strongly disagrees" with the ruling. "For decades, the Supreme Court recognised a college’s freedom to decide how to build a diverse student body and provide opportunity. Today, the Court walked away from precedent, effectively ending affirmative action in higher education. I strongly disagree with this decision," the tweet read. "Our colleges are stronger when they are racially diverse. And America is stronger because we are tapping into our full range of talent. Today's Supreme Court decision is not the last word," it added. This comes after the decision by the apex court dealt a significant blow to affirmative action policies which aimed at increasing diversity on college campuses. The court's conservative justices, with dissenting opinions from the liberal justices, voted in favour of Students for Fair Admissions, an organisation led by anti-affirmative action activist Edward Blum. The organisation had challenged the admissions policies of these prestigious institutions. US Supreme Court decision The court's decision was a 6-3 vote against UNC and a 6-2 vote against Harvard. Also Read | British court declares govt’s plan to send migrants to Rwanda unlawful Chief Justice John Roberts, for the majority, stated that the admissions programs at both universities violated the Equal Protection Clause of the US Constitution, emphasising that students should be evaluated as individuals rather than based on their race. Roberts clarified that this ruling does not prohibit universities from discussing an applicant's personal experiences with race biases. Roberts said that students "must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual, not on the basis of race. Many universities have for too long done just the opposite. And in doing so, they have concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the colour of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice." Also Read | Indian-Origin man jailed for smuggling over 800 Indians into US using Uber "At the same time," Roberts said, "as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant's discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise." Support towards affirmative action Affirmative action has been supported by numerous educational institutions, corporations, and military leaders as a means to address racial inequities and foster diverse perspectives in workplaces and the armed forces. Dissenting opinions However, the court's decision is seen as a setback to these efforts. Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor voiced her dissent. She argued that the ruling undermines the constitutional guarantee of equal protection and perpetuates racial inequality in education. Watch | Tarang shakti, India's largest multilateral air exercise to be held this year × "Today, this Court stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress," she wrote in a dissent. She was joined by Jackson and Liberal Justice Elena Kagan. Legal challenges and background Blum's organisation filed lawsuits in 2014, alleging that UNC and Harvard discriminated against white, Asian American, and other non-underrepresented minority applicants. The lawsuits argued that UNC's admissions policy violated the 14th Amendment's guarantee of equal protection, while Harvard's policy violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Supreme Court's conservative shift since 2016, along with the appointment of three justices by former President Donald Trump, provided an opportunity to reconsider previous rulings on race-conscious admissions policies. World leaders react over court's decision Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have also reacted over this key ruling by US Supreme Court. They joined the list of several other top Democrats who were quick to respond to the now-struck-down policy of the universities. The Obamas Michelle Obama, the former first lady, shared her personal experience of being one of the few Black students on her college campus. In a statement shared on her Twitter account, she expressed her sadness for young individuals who may be uncertain about their future after the apex court's ruling. "Today, my heart breaks for any young person out there who's wondering what their future holds — and what kinds of chances will be open to them." "Today is a reminder that we've got to do the work not just to enact policies that reflect our values of equity and fairness, but to truly make those values real in all of our schools, workplaces, and neighbourhood," she said in the statement. In a tweet, Barack Obama responded, "Affirmative action was never a complete answer in the drive towards a more just society. But for generations of students who had been systematically excluded from most of America’s key institutions—it gave us the chance to show we more than deserved a seat at the table. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent decision, it’s time to redouble our efforts." Trump calls ruling 'a great day for America' In a clear show of support for the Supreme Court's ruling, former US President Donald Trump called the decision by the apex court "a great day for America." "This is the ruling everyone was waiting and hoping for and the result was amazing. It will also keep us competitive with the rest of the world. Our greatest minds must be cherished and that’s what this wonderful day has brought. We’re going back to all merit-based—and that’s the way it should be!" he told a media outlet. Republicans Florida Governor Ron DeSantis tweeted the Supreme Court has correctly upheld the constitution and ended discrimination by colleges and universities. "College admissions should be based on merit and applicants should not be judged on their race or ethnicity," he wrote in a tweet. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott also backed the ruling and told Fox News, "This is a good day for America. Honestly, this is the day where we understand that being judged by the content of our character, not the colour of our skin is what our constitution wants. We are continuing to work on forming this more perfect union. Today is better than yesterday, this year better than last year, this decade better than last decade. The progress that we're seeing in this nation is palpable." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'I strongly disagree', says Biden after US Supreme Court strikes down race-based admissions programmes

Harvard Medical School's Morgue Manager has been charged for selling and shipping body parts. Over 4 more people have been caught selling body parts. Why did the man start selling human organs? Vikram Chandra brings you the details.

Harvard's morgue manager turns into an organ trafficker

Harvard Medical School's Morgue Manager has been charged for selling and shipping body parts. Over 4 more people have been caught selling body parts. Why did the man start selling human organs? Mohammad Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Harvard's Morgue Manager turns into an organ trafficker

A morgue manager at the prestigious Harvard Medical School (HMS) has been charged with selling stolen body parts. According to US prosecutors, on Wednesday (June 14), Cedric Lodge, the morgue manager, allegedly took dead body parts from his workplace without permission and then sold them.

A morgue manager at the prestigious Harvard Medical School (HMS) has been charged with selling stolen body parts. According to US prosecutors, on Wednesday (June 14), Cedric Lodge, the morgue manager, allegedly took dead body parts from his workplace without permission and then sold them. Lodge, 55, has been charged alongside his wife Denise Lodge and five other alleged co-conspirators for involvement in a "nationwide network" of bought and sold human remains. According to a report by the Boston Globe, the FBI's Boston office said that special agents arrested the Lodges and a codefendant Katrina Maclean without incident. Three other defendants face charges in Pennsylvania, and one was previously indicted in Arkansas In a statement, US attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Gerard Karam said, "Some crimes defy understanding." "It is particularly egregious that so many of the victims here volunteered to allow their remains to be used to educate medical professionals and advance the interests of science and healing," Attorney Karam added. Appalled to learn something so disturbing could happen: Harvard In a joint statement, George Daley, the dean of Harvard University's medicine faculty, and Edward Hundert, dean of medical education, said, "We are appalled to learn that something so disturbing could happen on our campus." Lodge managed the morgue for Harvard's anatomical gifts program and was fired from his post on May 6. Prosecutors said that from 2018 to 2022, he stole organs and other parts of cadavers donated for medical research and education before their scheduled cremations. The 55-year-old is accused of taking the human remains from the Harvard site in Boston to his hometown in Goffstown. From here, he and Denise sold the remains to two other accused- Katrina Maclean and Joshua Taylor, who then sold them for profit. The indictment According to a report by the Boston Globe, a federal grand jury indictment alleged that Lodge spent years diverting organs and cadaver parts that had been donated to the medical school’s Anatomical Gift Program and were supposed to be cremated. The indictment further alleged that Maclean shipped human skin to Taylor to have him "tan the skin to create leather." Maclean, who owns Kat's Creepy creations, has been charged with trafficking in stolen human remains, among other counts. On Wednesday, Cedric and Denise made separate court appearances in Concord. They were released on personal recognisance and must appear in federal court in Pennsylvania, where the case is being prosecuted, the report added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morgue manager at Harvard Medical school charged with selling stolen body parts

In what can be termed a gory act against humanity, a former morgue manager at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Cedric Lodge, has been accused of stealing and then selling&nbsp;human body parts, as per reports. He has been indicted on charges of stealing, selling, and shipping human body parts, according to media reports citing recent court filings.&nbsp;

The 55-year-old allegedly took dissected portions of donated cadavers, including heads, brains, skin, bones, and other remains, without the school's knowledge or permission. Lodge is said to have transported these stolen body parts from the Massachusetts morgue to his residence in New Hampshire.

<h2>Lodge's wife involved in conspiracy&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>

Cedric Lodge's wife, 63-year-old Denise, is also implicated in the case, accused of conspiring with him. The indictment reveals that human remains were sold to individuals such as 44-year-old Katrina Maclean, 46-year-old Joshua Taylor, and 52-year-old Matthew Lampi.&nbsp;

Two additional suspects, Jeremy Pauley and Candace Chapman Scott, have been identified in connection with the investigation. The indicted individuals face charges of conspiracy and interstate transport of stolen body parts.&nbsp;

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Katrina Maclean allegedly sold the stolen body parts through her store called Kat's Creepy Creations located in Peabody, Massachusetts.&nbsp;The case has shocked authorities, with US Attorney Gerard M. Karam stating that the theft and trafficking of humans remain to undermine the very essence of humanity.&nbsp;

He emphasized the betrayal suffered by the generous donors who intended their bodies to be used for medical education and scientific advancement.

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“The theft and trafficking of human remains strikes at the very essence of what makes us human. It is particularly egregious that so many of the victims here volunteered to allow their remains to be used to educate medical professionals and advance the interests of science and healing. For them and their families to be taken advantage of in the name of profit is appalling. With these charges, we are seeking to secure some measure of justice for all these victims," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Employment terminated&nbsp;</h2>

Harvard Medical School terminated Cedric Lodge's employment on 6 May. University officials expressed their dismay and vowed to support the affected donors' families during this distressing time. The incident has been described as a betrayal of the institution's commitment to healing and serving others.

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Harvard Medical School deans George Daley and Edward Hundert in a joint letter directed to the community wrote, “The reported incidents are a betrayal of HMS and, most importantly, each of the individuals who altruistically chose to will their bodies to HMS through the Anatomical Gift Program to advance medical education and research."

“We are so very sorry for the pain this news will cause for our anatomical donors’ families and loved ones, and HMS pledges to engage with them during this deeply distressing time,” they added.

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In what can be termed a gory act against humanity, a former morgue manager at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Cedric Lodge, has been accused of stealing and then selling human body parts, as per reports.

In what can be termed a gory act against humanity, a former morgue manager at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Cedric Lodge, has been accused of stealing and then selling human body parts, as per reports. He has been indicted on charges of stealing, selling, and shipping human body parts, according to media reports citing recent court filings. The 55-year-old allegedly took dissected portions of donated cadavers, including heads, brains, skin, bones, and other remains, without the school's knowledge or permission. Lodge is said to have transported these stolen body parts from the Massachusetts morgue to his residence in New Hampshire. Lodge's wife involved in conspiracy Cedric Lodge's wife, 63-year-old Denise, is also implicated in the case, accused of conspiring with him. The indictment reveals that human remains were sold to individuals such as 44-year-old Katrina Maclean, 46-year-old Joshua Taylor, and 52-year-old Matthew Lampi. Two additional suspects, Jeremy Pauley and Candace Chapman Scott, have been identified in connection with the investigation. The indicted individuals face charges of conspiracy and interstate transport of stolen body parts. Also Read | Roger Payne, biologist who discovered whales could sing, passes away at 88 Katrina Maclean allegedly sold the stolen body parts through her store called Kat's Creepy Creations located in Peabody, Massachusetts. The case has shocked authorities, with US Attorney Gerard M. Karam stating that the theft and trafficking of humans remain to undermine the very essence of humanity. He emphasized the betrayal suffered by the generous donors who intended their bodies to be used for medical education and scientific advancement. Also Read | At least 26 including six children killed in fresh fighting between army and resistance fighters “The theft and trafficking of human remains strikes at the very essence of what makes us human. It is particularly egregious that so many of the victims here volunteered to allow their remains to be used to educate medical professionals and advance the interests of science and healing. For them and their families to be taken advantage of in the name of profit is appalling. With these charges, we are seeking to secure some measure of justice for all these victims," he said in a statement. Employment terminated Harvard Medical School terminated Cedric Lodge's employment on 6 May. University officials expressed their dismay and vowed to support the affected donors' families during this distressing time. The incident has been described as a betrayal of the institution's commitment to healing and serving others. Watch | UK MPs publish Partygate report | English Latest news × Harvard Medical School deans George Daley and Edward Hundert in a joint letter directed to the community wrote, “The reported incidents are a betrayal of HMS and, most importantly, each of the individuals who altruistically chose to will their bodies to HMS through the Anatomical Gift Program to advance medical education and research." “We are so very sorry for the pain this news will cause for our anatomical donors’ families and loved ones, and HMS pledges to engage with them during this deeply distressing time,” they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager indicted for stealing, selling human remains

Ted Kaczynski, a math professor turned serial bomber, also known as the ‘Unabomber’, was found dead on Saturday morning at the age of 81. He was found unresponsive at the Federal Medical Center Butner and was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Ted Kaczynski's life in pictures: A Harvard Maths prodigy turned reclusive murderer

If there's one thing we should all be able to agree on, it's that all human beings belong to the same species, Homo sapiens.

But a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on Monday has found a yawning gap between what people claim to believe and what they actually hold true.

A team from Harvard and Tufts gathered data from more than 60,000 subjects who took part in 13 experiments that tested their implicit biases.

An overwhelming majority, over 90 percent, explicitly stated that white people and non-white people are equally human.

But on an implicit measure, white US participants, as well as white participants from other countries, consistently associated the attribute "human" (as opposed to "animal") with their own group more than other racial groups.&nbsp;

Conversely, Black, Asian and Hispanic participants showed no such bias, equally associating their own group and white people with "human."

"The biggest takeaway for me is that we're still grappling in a new form with sentiments that have been around for centuries," first author Kirsten Morehouse, a PhD student at Harvard University, told AFP.

Throughout history, the dehumanization of other races has been used as a pretext for unequal treatment, ranging from police brutality all the way to genocide. &nbsp;

<h2>Implicit Association Test</h2>

The research relied on the Implicit Association Test (IAT), a tool developed in the 1990s and now widely used in the field.

A computer-based measure, it tests the strength of associations between two concepts -- for example Black and white people or gay and straight people -- and two attributes like good or bad.

The idea is that easier pairings, as measured by faster key responses, are more strongly associated in the mind than difficult pairings, as measured by slower responses.

Researchers believe IAT tests reveal attitudes that people would be unwilling to state publicly, or might not even be aware of on a conscious level.&nbsp;

Across all the experiments, 61 percent of white participants associated white people more with "human" and Black people more with "animal."

An even greater number -- 69 percent of white participants -- associated white participants more with humans and Asians more with animals, and the same result occurred for white people taking a white-Hispanic test.

These effects held true across age, religion and education of participants, but did vary by political affiliation and gender. Self-identified conservatives and men expressed slightly stronger implicit "human = white" associations.

Non-white people did not show an implicit bias in favor of their own racial groups compared to white people.

But they did show a bias towards whites as more human when the test was between white people and another minority group, for example Asians asked to take a test that assessed their attitudes towards white people versus Black people.

<h2>Social hierarchy</h2>

Morehouse attributed these findings to the fact that white people are socially and economically dominant in the United States, where 85 percent of the participants were from (8.5 percent were from Western Europe).

She theorized that while you might expect all races to be more biased in favor of their own "in-group," such sentiments might be canceled out by their lower standing in American society, resulting in overall neutrality.

The fact that "third party" participants were biased in favor of white people when assessed against another race "demonstrates how powerful these social hierarchies are," she said.&nbsp;

Similar tests to those used in the experiment are available to take at https://implicit.harvard.edu/&nbsp;

Morehouse said that while the results could be uncomfortable for some, awareness was a first step that could help individuals break patterns of stereotyping.

If there's one thing we should all be able to agree on, it's that all human beings belong to the same species, Homo sapiens. But a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on Monday has found a yawning gap between what people claim to believe and what they actually hold true.

If there's one thing we should all be able to agree on, it's that all human beings belong to the same species, Homo sapiens. But a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on Monday has found a yawning gap between what people claim to believe and what they actually hold true. A team from Harvard and Tufts gathered data from more than 60,000 subjects who took part in 13 experiments that tested their implicit biases. An overwhelming majority, over 90 percent, explicitly stated that white people and non-white people are equally human. But on an implicit measure, white US participants, as well as white participants from other countries, consistently associated the attribute "human" (as opposed to "animal") with their own group more than other racial groups. Conversely, Black, Asian and Hispanic participants showed no such bias, equally associating their own group and white people with "human." "The biggest takeaway for me is that we're still grappling in a new form with sentiments that have been around for centuries," first author Kirsten Morehouse, a PhD student at Harvard University, told AFP. Throughout history, the dehumanization of other races has been used as a pretext for unequal treatment, ranging from police brutality all the way to genocide. Implicit Association Test The research relied on the Implicit Association Test (IAT), a tool developed in the 1990s and now widely used in the field. A computer-based measure, it tests the strength of associations between two concepts -- for example Black and white people or gay and straight people -- and two attributes like good or bad. The idea is that easier pairings, as measured by faster key responses, are more strongly associated in the mind than difficult pairings, as measured by slower responses. Researchers believe IAT tests reveal attitudes that people would be unwilling to state publicly, or might not even be aware of on a conscious level. Across all the experiments, 61 percent of white participants associated white people more with "human" and Black people more with "animal." An even greater number -- 69 percent of white participants -- associated white participants more with humans and Asians more with animals, and the same result occurred for white people taking a white-Hispanic test. These effects held true across age, religion and education of participants, but did vary by political affiliation and gender. Self-identified conservatives and men expressed slightly stronger implicit "human = white" associations. Non-white people did not show an implicit bias in favor of their own racial groups compared to white people. But they did show a bias towards whites as more human when the test was between white people and another minority group, for example Asians asked to take a test that assessed their attitudes towards white people versus Black people. Social hierarchy Morehouse attributed these findings to the fact that white people are socially and economically dominant in the United States, where 85 percent of the participants were from (8.5 percent were from Western Europe). She theorized that while you might expect all races to be more biased in favor of their own "in-group," such sentiments might be canceled out by their lower standing in American society, resulting in overall neutrality. The fact that "third party" participants were biased in favor of white people when assessed against another race "demonstrates how powerful these social hierarchies are," she said. Similar tests to those used in the experiment are available to take at https://implicit.harvard.edu/ Morehouse said that while the results could be uncomfortable for some, awareness was a first step that could help individuals break patterns of stereotyping.

Harvard study finds implicit racial bias highest among white people

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