Guest Thinkers — February 16, 2011

2008 education blogosphere survey: Question suggestions due Monday

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There are just a couple of days left if you want to submit your question ideas for the 2008 education blogosphere survey. If you have any suggestions, please send them to me by Monday, January 7

The most surprising and impactful new stories delivered to your inbox every week, for free.

A vintage-style illustration of a celestial scene, echoing science fiction by scientists, features a textured black planet and a whimsical moon with an eye, all enclosed in a pale green border against a starry background.

Books

5 classic science fiction novels written by scientists

What happens when scientists “write what they know”? Some amazing science fiction stories.

Starts With A Bang

Ask Ethan: Couldn’t COVID-19 have originated in a Chinese lab?

In theory, scientists could’ve produced a deadly virus that accidentally infected lab workers. In practice, we know that didn’t happen.

An open book reveals the art of smart manipulation: on the left page, a marionette illustration dances gracefully, while on the right, a flock of sheep grazes peacefully in a sunlit field.

Business

Why your smartest colleagues are virtuoso manipulators

We manipulate constantly — but few of us want to be called “manipulative.” Here, ex-Google executive Jenny Wood redefines an unfairly maligned trait.

A group of five men in suits pose with model rockets, showcasing their commitment to fundamental research. Beside them, an illustration depicts a space station orbiting Earth and the Moon, highlighting their visionary investment in space exploration.

Starts With A Bang

Why invest in fundamental research? A former Nazi explains

Back in 1970, Sister Mary Jucunda wrote NASA, decrying large investments in science. A former Nazi’s legendary response is still relevant.

A pencil eraser gently rubs away a detailed sketch of a human brain on graph paper, subtly symbolizing the fine balance needed in critical thinking.

Thinking

Is AI eroding our critical thinking?

“Ultimately, the choice rests with each individual: whether to take the convenient route of allowing AI to handle our critical thinking, or to preserve this essential cognitive process for ourselves.”

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