Today’s heroes are complicated, flawed, and often uncomfortable in their own skin. In this panel, authors explore how modern protagonists have moved far beyond traditional heroic archetypes, reflecting changing values, diverse backgrounds, and moral ambiguity. The discussion looks at why these imperfect heroes feel more real to readers and how writers can create characters who resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
Less-Than-Lethal Weapons: What Happens When Police Don’t Use Deadly Force
What really happens when officers reach for alternatives to deadly force? In this session, a Boston University professor explains how less-than-lethal weapons actually work, when they are used, and the legal and situational limits that govern their deployment. Writers...
