February 2022, ScientificAmerican.com 1February 2022VOLUME 326, NUMBER 2Andrew Hetherington
ON THe COVer
Space and time seem like the bedrock
of the universe, but what if they are not
fundamental? Several different theories
of physics are converging on the idea that
spacetime may instead be “emergent"—
an artifact of deeper underlying elements
of the universe. If scientists can figure out
where spacetime comes from, they may
be able to achieve one of the biggest goals
in physics—a theory of everything.
Illustration by Stefania Infante.40
PHYSICS
26 The Origins
of Space and Time
Spacetime may emerge from a more
fundamental reality. Figuring out
how could unlock the most urgent
goal in physics—a quantum theory
of gravity. By Adam Becker
EDUCATION
34 Schooled in Lies
Kids are prime targets of news
disinformation, yet educators cannot
figure out how best to teach them
to separate fact from fiction.
By Melinda Wenner Moyer
B I O L O G Y
40 Genetically Bloated
Beasts
The surprising persistence of
salaman ders is forcing us to
rethink evolution. By Douglas Fox
EVOLUTION
50 Neandertals Like Us
Remains from Croatia reveal that
the much maligned Neandertals hadmore in common with modern
humans than previously supposed.
By David W. Frayer and
Davorka Radovˇci ́c
PHARMACOLOGY
56 A Psychedelic for Trauma
MDMA, recreationally known as
Ecstasy or Molly, gained high marks
in a clinical trial for PTSD.
By Jennifer M. Mitchell
IMMUNOLOGY
62 Vaccinated but Vulnerable
People with diseases or treatments
that suppress their immune system
cannot count on the same pro
tection afforded by the COVID
vaccines. By Tanya Lewis
M I N D
68 Leaps of Confusion
People who jump to conclusions
tend to believe in conspiracy theo
ries, are overconfident and make
other mistakes in their thinking.
By Carmen Sanchez and
David DunningBanca do Antfer
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