The multitude of technology choices

Usually we do not realise it, but our relation with technology is far from simple. Not only at the macro-level, such as the interactions between social media and society, but also for every individual. Today I'll try to cast some light on our personal technology choices: How do we as individuals pick the "right" technology? What influences our … Continue reading The multitude of technology choices

On the freedom and responsibility of science

The freedom of science is a highly valued and widely appreciated principle. Or so I thought - until Andy Borowitz reminded me of the contrary with his recent news satire in The New Yorker, in which he mocks the growing anti-knowledge attitude in some parts of the U.S. political establishment. Thus triggered to think twice, I'll dwell a little … Continue reading On the freedom and responsibility of science

Three days, three breakthroughs

Wow, what a ride! Just between 10 and 12 December 2015 –within the blink of an eye–  three events occurred that we will likely consider breakthroughs in a couple of years: the Paris Agreement, the launch of OpenAI, and the first successful run of Wendelstein 7-X. While one of those events is widely agreed as historic, the other two currently … Continue reading Three days, three breakthroughs

The dynamic ups and downs of human systems

No matter how hard we try to keep things simple and under control, many man-made systems turn out to be – or to become over time – quite complex and unpredictable. Despite our effort. Against our intentions. In stark contrast to our preference for simple, linear, static, controllable, predictable systems. Computer software, stock markets and tax codes are … Continue reading The dynamic ups and downs of human systems

No future for employment?

Every now and then you come across a truly eye-opening piece of writing that you just need to share with as many people as you possibly can. For me, such revelation came with Derek Thompson's A World without Work, published in the July/August issue of The Atlantic. So don't be surprised that this post is shamelessly advertising Thompson's thorough … Continue reading No future for employment?