In Brief

In Brief is a Columbia News series featuring faculty members' short op-ed pieces on current topics related to their academic research.

Empty store shelves where menstruation products would normally be sold.
In Brief

Let’s Talk About Menstruation

During a pandemic, women across all socioeconomic backgrounds struggle to access period products, but it is especially challenging for those who ha

A black and white vintage photo from 1909 of a group of men dressed in jackets and ties walking on a New York City street men holding up protest signs about unemployment and the need for jobs.
In Brief

What Lies Behind Soaring U.S. Unemployment Claims Is the Mental and Emotional Cost

Business School Professor Stephan Meier’s research shows that financial strains only scratch the surface for Americans facing job loss.

Three students in caps and gowns posing in front of a statue on the steps with a columned building in the background.
In Brief

School Photos in the Age of Social Distancing

As commencements are canceled across America, faux graduation selfies become the new normal. What do they mean?

Patients sitting on dirt ground or standing by a white truck with an open awning on the side and a door at the back revealing a medical worker talking to a patient.
In Brief

Africa Is in the Eye of the Coronavirus Storm

To prevent a tragedy, the global community must act now.

A couple meditating on the floor
In Brief

Stay Calm and Create a Daily Routine During the COVID-19 Crisis

Veteran war and disaster correspondent Judith Matloff shares her tips for surviving the new normal—social distancing and self-quarantine—during the

Trader with his hand over his head
In Brief

Why Confidence in the Economy Matters During a Pandemic

The fear that an epidemic could reappear will likely exert a small downward force on prices and demand, for decades to come. 

young woman asleep under sheets next to tan pug with brown ears and sad expression
In Brief

Better Sleep Helps Not Just Our Bodies and Minds But Our Planet Too

Catching enough Z’s can lead to improved health, productivity and sustainable choices that conserve Earth’s resources.

Seven people trying for the Democratic presidential nominations standing on red, white and blue decorated stage. Some of them are waving to the audience.
In Brief

Is One Presidential Candidate More Electable Than the Other?

Pundits are full of assertions on winning White House bids, but they are just opinions and nothing more.

Iranian General Qasem Soleimani with gray hair and dressed in green military uniform surrounded by other Iranian officers in similar uniforms.
In Brief

What’s Next for U.S. and Iran?

In the wake of the killing of Gen. Qasem Soleimani and Iran’s retaliation on U.S.

A man in suit speaking at the podium
In Brief

The Pros and Cons Joe Biden Faces in Presidential Bid

Robert Shapiro, a professor and former chair of the Department of Political Science, frames Joe Biden's presidential path to the 2020 election.

brown boards in disarray with green, silver and red pipes intertwining
In Brief

Newark’s Lead-Water Crisis Is a National Problem

As the city takes steps to overhaul its water supply network, government and industry must follow suit.

Man with beard standing in front of an image of the Twitter bird logo.
In Brief

Is Twitter's Ban on Political Ads the Solution?

Twitter founder Jack Dorsey says an election message's reach "should be earned, not bought."