Topic: McGill University

College rankings: Which countries have the best education systems?

A new higher education ranking focuses on evaluating quality by countries as a whole, rather than specific academic institutions. Here are some of the findings:

Are crop yields the Achilles heel of organic farming?

Organic agriculture can't compete with conventional in terms of crop yields, according to a new study.

Scientists create race of supersoldier ants

This discovery of oversized versions of soldier ants, whose job is to defend the nest, led researchers to create their own supersoldier ants in the lab with the help of a hormone.

If someone calls you a rat, take it as a compliment

A new study found that rats display compassion for their fellow rodents, even if they have nothing to gain. 

Canada's 'kid' lawmakers poised to shake-up staid Parliament

Canada's recent election brought a crop of young lawmakers – including college students – to Parliament as members of the opposition New Democratic Party.

Designing for dignity

Moshe Safdie's success doesn't distract from his desire to create habitats that fit cities – and honor the individual.

Ideas for a better world in 2011

To start the new year off right, the Monitor asked various thinkers around the world for one idea each to make the world a better place in 2011. We talked to poets and political figures, physicists and financiers. The results range from how to reduce the number of nuclear weapons in the world to ways to revamp Hollywood.

Shanghai test scores have everyone asking: How did students do it?

Shanghai, China, trounced the competition in an international test of 15-year-olds. The Programme for International Student Assessment measures skills in math, science, and reading.

'Wonder material' graphene wins scientists 2010 Nobel Prize in physics

Graphene, a super-strong, transparent form of carbon one atom thick, could be used in displays, solar panels, and lightweight composites. Two Russian-born scientists found a way to isolate it, winning the 2010 physics Nobel Prize.

'Let's Move': Michelle Obama takes on childhood obesity

First lady Michelle Obama has made childhood obesity her signature project with the 'Let's Move' campaign. Wednesday she takes the message to the national Parent Teacher Association at a National Legislative Conference in Arlington, Va.

Is Canada more pro-family than America?

Canadian families get generous parental leave, childcare subsidies, and guaranteed healthcare. Critics claim America can’t afford to follow suit, but it’s increasingly clear that it can’t afford not to.

Ice Hockey

In Canada, where hockey isn’t so much a sport as a way of life, the hockey tournament is being billed by some as the Olympic event to watch. Look for a strong Canadian men's team and a resurgent US women's team.

Africa's continental divide: land disputes

African land reform, plot by plot, may be the foundation for solving so much else – from famine to poverty to genocide.

Tamils in Canada vote for independent homeland in Sri Lanka

In the latest such vote to be held by Tamils of Sri Lankan descent living abroad, members of the diaspora across Canada overwhelmingly voted “yes” on a referendum held Saturday calling for an independent homeland.

Crocs stumble: anatomy of a fad or a rebound?

Maker of the fluorescent, smurf-like shoes appears to have staved off bankruptcy, but will it regain its former stride?

Tamils in Britain and Canada vow to sustain Sri Lanka struggle

In both countries, home to large Tamil communities, a new focus on using democratic means to address grievances.

Why Arab leaders embrace Sudan's indicted president

At the Arab League summit Monday, the UN secretary general condemned Sudan's expulsion of humanitarian aid groups in response to the ICC arrest warrant for Bashir.

In ruins for 18 months, a Palestinian enclave languishes in disrepair

Lebanese officials worry that Gaza has overshadowed efforts to help Palestinian refugees there rebuild from a 2007 battle between the Army and militants.

Québecois: maligned accent may have its roots in royal courts

Québec scholar Jean-Denis Gendron traces a 'relaxed, natural' accent to the time of Louis XIV.

Life imitates Harry Potter

Scientists challenge General Relativity. And Mr. Einstein wins again.

Two tests use cosmic laboratories to question if the laws of physics are universal.

'Swedish Seven' win hearts of Detroit's hockey faithful

Without them, some say, the Red Wings wouldn't now be contending for the Stanley Cup.

Lobster: U.S.-Canada turf war set to resume

Competing claims over Machias Seal Island may collapse the lobster industry there.

Climate change debate: push emissions goals or technology?

Should the world put less focus on emissions caps and more on spurring clean technologies?

Climate change debate: push emissions goals or technology?

Should the world put less focus on emissions caps and more on spurring clean technologies?