The top ANU Reporter stories of 2025

Take a look at the top 10 feature articles that engaged ANU Reporter readers this year.

The most-read stories for 2025 span turbulent global politics, an Australian election, an interview with a former Prime Minister – and even some saucy research.

Thank you to everyone who found themselves reading our website this year.

In the new year we look forward to bringing you more food for thought on topical issues, fascinating research, and stories on our diverse ANU community.

1. Is this the end of US democracy?
   Once the pillar of democracy, the US now flirts with authoritarianism, says Professor Benjamin Goldsmith.
   
2. Hot, heavy love: if you’re having that much sex, you might be a ‘libidinous’ lover, according to science
   People experiencing romantic love probably fit into one of four distinct categories of romantic lovers, according to first-of-its-kind research from ANU.
   
3. Gliding into 2025: Embracing the Year of the Snake
   We welcomed in the new Lunar Year by exploring the cultural significance of the snake and its enduring relevance across the globe.
   
4. What is rage bait and how can you avoid it?
   Anger at online content has sparked both revolutions and violent attacks on vulnerable people. How should we react to posts designed to enrage us?
   
5. Australia’s political history is full of gaffes. Here are some of the best (or worst)
   Professor Frank Bongiorno rounded up the gaffes and blunders that have mattered in Australian political history.
   
6. Australian democracy under threat from ‘powder keg of disenchanted voters’
   Weeks out from the Federal election, this article discussed the potential impacts of a growing number of voters dissatisfied with our two-party system.
   
7. Meet Robert: a life gilded in punk couture, queer expression and royal opulence
   Associate Professor Robert Wellington uses art history to speak truth to power.
   
8. Why the US strikes on Iran are illegal and can set a troubling precedent
   After the US bombed Iranian nuclear facilities in ‘self-defence’, Professor Donald Rothwall explored the ramifications for international law.
   
9. Recipe for marital success: husband and wife celebrate their PhD graduations
   After time apart on different continents, this married couple reunited to navigate their PhD journeys at ANU.
   
10. Julia Gillard on making space for other female leaders
    Australia’s first female prime minister spoke to ANU Reporter about women’s leadership, mentorship and life beyond politics.