Guest Thinkers — June 3, 2011

Just say no to ‘just say no’

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

The Global Commission on Drug Policy has concluded that, when it comes to drugs, ‘just say no’ policies for youth are a complete failure. Perhaps we’ll now do the same for schools’ ‘just say no’ policies regarding Wikipedia, mobile phones, YouTube, and other digital technologies?

I know. Wishful thinking…

Image credit:The moose say…

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A collage featuring hands holding a plant, additional hands in sepia tone, a grid background, orange accents, and the text "Reclaim Meaning" with the number 4.

Thinking

How to reclaim meaning in a changing world

What if the barrier to a fulfilled life isn’t technology but culture?

Two scientists in lab coats and gloves examine a small transparent plate with colorful dots, held by tweezers, in a laboratory setting.

The Future

The big problems driving nanotech development

It’s been 65 years since Richard Feynman saw “plenty of room” in the nano-world. Are we finally getting down there?

A smartphone with a red case displays a world map on the screen, set against a vibrant orange background.

Health

Dr. AI will see you now

The integration of artificial intelligence into public health could have revolutionary implications for the global south—if only it can get online.

Collage of social media icons and pixelated images in a grid layout, featuring Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook logos on a red background.

The Present

Internet freedom is fading in the new era of social control

“The evolution of digital media makes stricter regulation of online behavior not only feasible but inevitable,” writes media ecologist Andrey Mir.

A white lab mouse sits in a glass petri dish, cradled gently by hands clad in blue gloves. The captivating scene underscores the crucial role of lab mice in scientific research and discovery.

Life

Scientists kill 192 million lab mice each year. Is there a better way?

Can laboratories become more humane, or is it time to end animal research altogether?

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