I had the great privilege of joining Arianna Huffington, HuffPost's editor-in-chief, at the 2016 Commencement Ceremony of my alma mater, Hunter College. Arianna gave the keynote address and was given the President's Medal by Hunter College President, Jennifer Raab.

Why is there a Universe? Scientists simply don't know how to address why questions. They are out of the present formulation of modern science. Nor do we know, or have any prospect of ever knowing, why there is a Universe.

A newly published book has reminded those who care about social justice in America about one of its strongest and most effective advocates, the late James Dumpson. The book is Reflections on the American Social Welfare State by Alma Carten, and it sheds new light on the life and career of this courageous, lifelong crusader for human rights.

Routine use of antibiotics in animal agriculture to increase growth and as a prophylactic measure to prevent disease in crowded conditions also contributes to antibiotic resistance. In fact, about 80 percent of antibiotics sold in the United States are used in meat and poultry farms.

Installed in a partially finished white box room with one wall of exposed and distressed brick, the sculptures did indeed invoke the simplicity, seriality and materiality of conventional minimalist art. Then, Kenya arrived.