The world, the universe and us Are smartphones really causing mental illness in teens?; More evidence of alien life; Digital oak trees
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May 23, 2025 The impact of smartphones on teen mental health sparks debate, with researchers questioning whether these devices are truly harmful. Meanwhile, the discovery of potential alien life grows more intriguing, as conflicting analyses of signals from the James Webb Space Telescope intensify the discussion. Finally, an immersive art installation at Kew Gardens showcases the intricate world of oak trees, encouraging a deeper connection to nature and raising awareness about their ecological significance.
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Lack of Firm Evidence on Smartphones
- There is no strong scientific consensus that smartphones are causing mental illness in teens.
- Much of the debate relies on anecdotes and lacks robust statistical evidence supporting harm claims.
Parental Guidance on Tech Use
- Parents should have open, honest conversations with their children about technology's pros and cons.
- Understanding the technology themselves helps balance protection and allowing experience.
Alien Life Evidence Is Unsettled
- Evidence of alien life on exoplanet K2-18b remains contested despite new analyses.
- More data and analysis encompassing many molecules still can't conclusively identify biological signals.
