World Visualized

How close is too close? Global study reveals social interaction distances

A groundbreaking 2024 study involving 650,000 participants from 196 countries has unveiled intriguing insights into how much personal space people prefer during social interactions. The findings highlight cultural differences in physical proximity, offering a fascinating look at how people navigate personal boundaries worldwide.

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When people talk about America’s closest allies, they often focus on politics, trade, or military partnerships. But what about cultural DNA, the deep similarities in demographics, politics, infrastructure, and everyday life?

Economist predicts Netherlands vs Portugal Final at 2026 FIFA World Cup

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Countries with the highest murder rates in the world

Murder rates are a critical indicator of a country's safety and stability. They reflect various socioeconomic factors, including inequality, unemployment, and the prevalence of organised crime.

Since the 11 September 2001 attacks, US air power has been used repeatedly across multiple regions under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The map summarises where airstrikes, drone strikes or missile attacks were carried out, but the underlying record shows continuity rather than exception.

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Top dog-populated countries around the world

The phrase “A dog is man’s best friend” as made by Frederick II, King of Prussia (1740–1786) can never be overrated. Dogs go beyond providing companionship to providing emotional support and security. It's no surprise then that many people around the world would opt first for a dog as an additional member of a family, a pet or a friend. While these fluffy creatures exist in homes all over the world, some countries have particularly high numbers of them.