People throughout history and across the entire world have believed in the power of the evil eye, or “mal de ojo” in Spanish.
Culture
Will-o’-The-Wisp: Bioluminescence or Otherworldly Spirits?
If you’ve ever seen a strange orb of light levitating in the air, then you’ve experienced what people for generations have called will-o’-the-wisp. Here’s what we know about it.
6 Legendary Mayan Gods You’ll Wish Were Your Best Friends
Mayan gods ran the gambit from wise old women to horny trickster gods. Here are 6 legendary characters that could give the Greek or Norse pantheons a run for their money.
Are Blackout Tattoos a Bad Idea?
Blackout tattoos have become increasingly trendy in recent years, but are they safe and could getting one be considered cultural appropriation?
The Myriad Meanings of the World’s Most Popular Religious Symbols
These religious symbols are seen pretty much everywhere, but few people know the true meanings and origins behind them.
Mentally Ill? Depends on Where You Are: A Look at Culture Bound Syndromes
Mental illness is partly defined by abnormality. But what’s normal often depends on the culture you come from.
A Complete Pragmatist’s Guide to Shower Beers
A new trend is sweeping across the nation that’s changing everything you thought you knew about drinking beer. This is a complete pragmatist’s guide to shower beers.
Dark Academia: The Old World Aesthetic That’s Reviving the Humanities
Ink wells, plaid pea coats, and Greek poetry. These are a few of Dark Academia’s favorite things in an age when arts and humanities are increasingly devalued.
Fanfiction Is Older Than You Think – But Can It Survive Stricter Intellectual Property Laws?
As intellectual property laws become stricter, fanfiction finds fewer places to exist and has even landed in US federal court. But remaking popular stories is a tale as old as time.
Do You Have Main Character Syndrome?
There’s an emerging trend, based on a Tumblr post, about living your life like you’re the main character. But what does that really mean? Can it lead to main character syndrome?
The Symbolism and History of the Eastern Dragon
Unlike its western counterpart, which spews fire and destroys villages, the eastern dragons, which reign across Asia, are divine beings that bring prosperity and happiness.
From Dracula to Edward Cullen: The Evolution of the Vampire Myth
The vampire casts a long shadow over pop culture. But where does it come from? And more importantly, what lesson does the vampire teach?
What Was McDonald’s Thinking With the Hamburglar?
The Hamburglar has become a household name, but how did McDonalds think up such a strange character? And why?
11 Exquisite Indian Palaces (That Aren’t the Taj Mahal)
The Taj Mahal earned its worldwide fame but if you want to take in the grandeur of India’s ancient royalty away from the tourists, check out these other Indian palaces.
What Makes An E-Girl? A Guide to the E-Girl Aesthetic and Life
The e-girl aesthetic mixes fashion, internet history, and what it means to grow up online. Like her predecessors, the e-girl is no stranger to flak.
Cottagecore: Beauty, Tranquility, and A Timeless Perspective on Labor
More than just a fashion trend, the countryside-themed aesthetics of Cottagecore reflects a change in the way society approaches work and living.