Looking for captivating reading material this weekend? The Guardian has curated six exceptional features from the past week that explore everything from the psychology of names to the beautiful friendships forged on football terraces.
The Power of Names and Human Connections
Research reveals that our names can significantly influence our lives, affecting everything from dating prospects to academic performance. Journalist Emma Russell investigates this fascinating phenomenon, speaking to individuals with unusual names like Peach, alongside therapists and economists. Studies show that in China, names can even impact criminal behaviour likelihood, while students with surnames later in the alphabet sometimes receive lower grades.
In a heartbreaking Long Read, documentary maker Pamela Gordon shares the tragic story of Craig, a teenager she first encountered homeless on the streets in the late 1990s after he ran away from care. Her poignant account reveals how discovering what he was escaping from helped explain the sad trajectory his life ultimately took.
Modern Dangers and Health Insights
Romance fraud represents a growing threat in the UK and beyond, with Anna Moore's feature breaking down the seven stages of romance scams that can cost victims up to £100,000. From love bombing to gaslighting, this important piece challenges the narrative that often blames victims, reminding readers that anyone human can be targeted.
The surge of AI in American healthcare systems comes with significant risks, warns Eric Reinhart. Rather than correcting human limitations, artificial intelligence might actually amplify them by training clinicians to rely less on critical thinking and listening skills. This technological shift risks addressing symptoms rather than root causes of healthcare challenges.
Friendship and Wellbeing Traditions
Football stadiums often become the unexpected birthplace of lasting friendships, as explored in George Harrison's introduction to a moving photo essay. Sam Wollaston meets six sets of fans brought together by their shared love for a club, demonstrating how the beautiful game creates bonds that transcend the final score.
Meanwhile, Sarah Phillips takes readers on a virtual European tour to uncover health traditions worth adopting. From daily swims and power naps to five meals daily, these longstanding customs from Iceland, Ukraine, France and beyond offer simple yet effective wellbeing practices that have kept generations healthy and happy.
These six features provide thought-provoking weekend reading that explores the complexities of modern life, human connections, and the traditions that shape our wellbeing.
