Whenever we have a question – about ourselves or the world around us – it can be helpful to visualize our answer in order to really understand it. But how do you conceptualize something as big as inequality, as complex as grief, or as silly as your probability of correctly guessing today’s Wordle? For data journalist Mona Chalabi, the answer is through data – and drawing. You’ve probably seen Mona’s illustrations on the internet. She’s known for interpreting data in a way that makes you GET it. In today’s episode, she explains how anyone could use analysis to answer their most personal questions – from whether or not to have a breakup to how many friends you should have. For the text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mona Chalabi, a data journalist known for her work on understanding societal expectations, dives into the realities of friendships in today's world. She discusses the emotional toll of pandemic isolation, revealing insights on how many friends we truly need. Evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar's research highlights how relationships evolve with life stages. Chalabi maps her connections against these norms, prompting listeners to reflect on their own friendships and the changing dynamics of social interactions in modern life.

Pulitzer Prize-winning data journalist and artist Mona Chalabi discusses her groundbreaking work, criticism of New York Times coverage on Israel-Palestine and Gaza. They also talk about the surprising ousting and return of Sam Altman as boss of OpenAI, the potential sale of the Daily Telegraph and the implications of foreign ownership.

Mona Chalabi, data editor at The Guardian and Pulitzer Prize winner, discusses the power of protest, the impact of journalism, and the importance of considering consequences. They explore balancing journalism and personal grief, the complexities of their relationship with institutions, and the role of funny illustrations in their work. The chapter also mentions their reflection on a story inspired by a Jewish prayer and their experience with racism and self-doubt.

Data journalist Mona Chalabi explores life's uncertainties like friendships, fertility, and breakups to find normalcy through numbers. She challenges assumptions, delves into the limitations of numerical understanding, and consults experts, strangers, and even her mum for answers on what is considered normal.