Research & Ideas

Discover Harvard research, scholarship, and ideas shaping the world—from science and technology to policy, education, and the humanities.


Jason Furman: Capitalism Is Working. It Could Work Better.

On Open to Debate, the Harvard economist defended free market competition—with meaningful government involvement. 

by Schuyler Velasco

A Harvard Economist Probes the Affordable Housing Crisis

From understanding gender pay gaps to the housing crisis, Rebecca Diamond’s research aims to improve lives.

by Jonathan Shaw

A Harvard Astrophysicist Explains the Bizarre Behavior of a Supergiant Star

The dimming and rapid rotation of Betelgeuse may be caused by a hidden companion.

by Saima Sidik

Discoveries

Short takes on cutting-edge research

by Jonathan Shaw

Pete Buttigieg Calls For a Politics of ‘Belonging’

A Kennedy School panel discusses polarization and the uncertain future of American democracy.

by Lydialyle Gibson

Is Copyright Law the Wrong Weapon Against AI?

Harvard law professor Rebecca Tushnet explains how “fair use” applies to LLMs.

by Olivia Farrar

Ken Burns on America’s Unfinished Revolution

At Radcliffe, the filmmaker joined Harvard historians to discuss what the nation’s founding means today.

by Lydialyle Gibson

Antony Blinken Says U.S. Goal in Gaza Was to Protect People

At Harvard’s Institute of Politics, the former secretary of state reflects on his tenure, Iran, and the future. 

by Tamara Evdokimova

Can We Disagree Better? A Harvard Professor Has Tips.

Kennedy School professor of public policy Julia Minson on how to improve political conversations

by Olivia Farrar

The Celts in Art and Imagination

A new exhibition at the Harvard Art Museums traces 2,500 years of Celtic art.

by Olivia Farrar

Are ‘Little Red Dots’ Keys to Understanding the Early Universe?

Harvard-Smithsonian astrophysicist Fabio Pacucci explains one of cosmology’s newest mysteries.

by Olivia Farrar