World Changing Ideas 2014

Snapping together one-atom-thick sheets of material creates substances with completely new properties—and amazing possibilities

A closer look at some of the breakthroughs on the cover of the December issue of Scientific American

10 problem-solving, planet-improving, lifesaving advances set to drive progress in the years ahead

A DNA-editing technique based on bacterial “memories” could revolutionize medicine. But some worry it could get out of control

A Body Worlds–inspired method promises to speed up biomedical research

A third of all the energy wasted in the U.S. could produce electricity instead

Saliva could be a new renewable energy source for medical devices

Taking control of cells by squeezing them

Electron microscope resolution for quick-and-dirty industrial applications

Eco-friendly polymers strong enough to use in cars and airplanes

Self-correcting screens on smartphones and iPads tailor themselves to a viewer's vision—no glasses necessary

An efficient way to beam electricity through the air