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Sunday, December 2, 2018

NYTimes.com/Opinion »

Did you take note of the genetically modified food among the organic dishes on your Thanksgiving table? It turns out the origins of your dinner might be the least of your worries. We stepped straight into science fiction territory this week with the claim from a scientist in China that he edited the DNA in two embryos, producing genetically altered twins. Is this a step too far? Some say absolutely. But should we be shocked? Not really; China has been manipulating reproduction for years. The technology evokes dark scenarios, but do you think there are benefits? Send me your thoughts at Op-reads@nytimes.com. Please note your name, age and location in your response, which may be included in the next newsletter. — Alexandra March

The Link Between August Birthdays and A.D.H.D.

Jackie Ferrentino

By ANUPAM B. JENA, MICHAEL BARNETT AND TIMOTHY J. LAYTON

Among several hundred thousand children in a study released last week, rates of diagnosis and treatment were 34 percent higher for August babies than for those born in September — and there's a surprising culprit at the heart of the correlation.

'I Was the Victim of a Miscarriage of Justice'

Boaz Freund

By MEEK MILL

Meek Mill is a multiplatinum hip-hop artist, but one year ago he was also labeled "a danger to the community" and "a flight risk," and he was sentenced to two to four years in prison. His crime? Popping a wheelie on a motorcycle in Manhattan. Now that he's out, he's fighting for prisoners' rights.

A $25 Nap? 100 Percent Worth It

Min Heo

By STEPHEN MARCHE

"You miss 100 percent of the naps you don't take." Yes, sleep is a necessity, but now it's a commodity, too. Welcome to hypercapitalism, where you can buy a nap for $25. You might think you're paying for a moment of Zen, but you might actually be buying concentration.

The Hypocrisy of Hanukkah

A menorah on Independence Mall in Philadelphia in 2017. Matt Rourke/Associated Press

By MICHAEL DAVID LUKAS

Hanukkah has always been one of the less momentous holidays on the Jewish calendar. But for many, it's now the big annual celebration for one reason: competition with Santa.

Christmas Trees Remind Us of What We May Lose

Nolan Pelletier

By DAVID GEORGE HASKELL

Close your eyes and remember that fragrance: pine mingling with fresh snow. It recalls childhood, family, celebrations. But the trees can also draw us closer to the forest and remind us of the life they give, and that we need one another.

Send your thoughts on this week's selections, suggestions and favorite reads from the section to me at Op-reads@nytimes.com. If you're enjoying this email, please send it to friends. They can sign up here.