‘We just had to act over Aids’

Activists are quick to attack big drug companies, but Hank McKinnell, the Pfizer boss, says he is doing what he can to fight HIV. Sarah Boseley asks if that is true.

Destiny’s children

Natasha Walter: The banalities of astrology have replaced religion in giving young people a sense of purpose and belonging.

Raising spirits

Drug therapies are showing promise in the treatment of alcoholism but, as Dr John Briffa describes, changes in diet can also help curb the craving.

It’s a dog’s life

Forcing children to jump through academic hoops turns them into corporate poodles, says Oliver James.

Ask Emma

Natural health therapist, Emma Mitchell, answers your questions.

The new black

Hannah Pool: What is it with black women and shine? Skin is supposed to shine. There, I've said it. Some call it shine; I call it radiance.

Me and my girl

When her youngest child was diagnosed with Down's syndrome, Kathy Evans thought her world would fall apart. One year on, she talks about the joy she has brought.

What’s in your basket?

Michael Winner: Caviar and scrambled eggs, coffee with Scotch - the film director/food critic's diet worries Dr John Briffa.

Seven-year hitch

For the first six years, children are resilient to failure - then we teach them to lose, says Oliver James.