Technology & Innovation — February 1, 2011

A Twitter Revolution?

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

While it’s clear that media drives politics, “there’s a more complicated and symbiotic relationship” between social media technologies and popular revolts.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Arms burdened with a large stack of papers, folders, and rolled-up documents, a person exemplifies toxic productivity. Their black bag hangs precariously from their arm as they navigate the weight of their workload.

The Learning Curve

How to break free from your “toxic productivity” cycle

Psychotherapist Israa Nasir explains how a “value-aligned life” can help us crush our goals — without being crushed by the need to accomplish more.

The Present

Microplastic overload: Is cutting production the only realistic way to curb pollution?

On November 25, U.N. members will meet in South Korea to cap off a series of meetings aiming to reduce global plastic pollution.

An older man sits on a chair with his finger raised. Behind him are a tangled line and a spiral, both against a green backdrop.

Emotional Intelligence

Daniel Goleman: Why emotional intelligence may be the number one indicator of organizational success

Today’s technology presents unique challenges for social awareness and relationship management at work, making emotional intelligence all the more critical.

Silhouette of a person against a blue background, overlaid with white node and line networks.

Thinking

Mechanized minds: AI’s hidden impact on human thought

While we’re busy wondering whether machines will ever become conscious, we rarely stop to ask: What happens to us?

Yellow and black bird perched on a thin branch surrounded by green leaves.

The Present

How tech is turning science into a hobby

Off-the-shelf consumer technology is helping people pursue their interests — and advancing science at the same time.

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Technology & Innovation

Facebook + Twitter = Revolution?

Social media sites have been credited with helping protesters in Egypt organize and spread news before the government blackout. But is the importance of communications technology to modern revolutions overblown?