Guest Thinkers — December 21, 2010

New Column

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

It what is easily the most exciting Yemen-based news of the day (cue tumbleweed), I have a new column out about the dangers of comparing Yemen to Afghanistan/Somalia. It would have been better were it longer, or if was just a pithy, Wilde-esque statement.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A close-up of the quantum AI processor labeled "Willow" rests on a textured metallic surface, hinting at the mysteries of quantum computation and whispers of parallel universes.

Starts With A Bang

Ask Ethan: Does quantum computation occur in parallel universes?

By improving quantum error correction, quantum computations are now faster than ever. But parallel universes? That’s utter nonsense here.

Two young children with curly hair in striped sweaters enjoy lollipops, showcasing the whimsical nature of genes and behavior. The black-and-white photo gives a nostalgic feel.

Neuropsych

Blaming our genes: The heritability of behavior

When it comes to behavior, genetics may play a larger role than you think.

Digital illustration of a DNA double helix in red and blue, set against a black background.

The Future

Can we automate science? Sam Rodriques is already doing it.

“We can build AI scientists that are better than we are… these systems can be superhuman,” says the FutureHouse co-founder.

People walking on a city street with steam rising from vents create a scene reminiscent of an omics exposome research study. A woman in a white beanie looks back as buildings and traffic form the vibrant backdrop.

Health

The next omics? Tracking a lifetime of exposures to better understand disease

Of the millions of substances people encounter daily, health researchers have focused on only a few hundred. Those in the emerging field of exposomics want to change that.

An older man with white hair and a suit receives a document from another man in a robe during an event, as several people look on in the background. In the age of viral misquotes, capturing such moments accurately becomes ever more crucial.

High Culture

Einstein didn’t say that: How viral misquotes evolve and replicate

From Einstein to Twain, Garson O’Toole investigates the truth behind your favorite — and often misattributed — quotes.

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