What is artificial general intelligence? Is AGI possible? Does it pose a threat to humans? Artificial general intelligence (AGI) is a machine intelligence that understands the world as well as humans do. Hopes and fears about artificial intelligence reaching superhuman levels of skill or giving us a society run by robots are all predicated on the idea that we can build a type of AI that’s still hypothetical. Here’s a look at what AGI is, and if it could be dangerous.
2024 East Palestine, Ohio Train Derailment Updates
Looking for East Palestine, Ohio train derailment updates? How are the cleanup efforts going? How was the local community affected? A year after a catastrophic train derailment in Ohio led to a massive chemical spill, clean-up efforts are nearing conclusion—but health concerns linger. While government officials assert that the environment is safe, some East Palestine residents remain concerned. Below is a look at the steps that have been taken to manage the derailment fallout and a look at the regulatory actions that have been implemented since.
Why Are Groceries Getting So Expensive?
Why are groceries getting so expensive, despite inflation going down? What role does greed play? How is the government responding? Surging grocery store prices have left American families paying an average of 25% more for food since the pandemic’s onset. Lower-income families are disproportionately affected. Factors fueling the price hikes include supply chain struggles, corporate profiteering, and the war in Ukraine. Continue reading for more insights into the rising cost of groceries.
How to Avoid Job Offer Scams: Red Flags & Warning Signs
What is a job offer scam? How can you tell if a job posting is real or fake? What can happen if you fall for a fake job offer? Rising employment fraud in the US is costing job seekers $2 billion annually. To protect against scams, experts recommend thoroughly researching companies, insisting on in-person or video interviews, and not responding to requests for money. Keep reading to learn how employment scams happen and how to avoid them.
How AI Chatbots Are Changing the Future of Communication
What are the pros and cons of using AI chatbots? Are chatbots like ChatGPT the future of communication? How are chatbots changing how we connect with other humans? The growing prevalence and sophistication of chatbots is reshaping human language, communication, and relationships. As people interact with increasingly human-like chatbots, their conversations with humans could turn more transactional, diluting their ability to empathize and build rapport. Continue reading for a look at chatbots’ effects on communication and the potential risks.
The Psychology of Religion: Is It Helpful or Harmful?
Does religion actually make people happier? What are the drawbacks of religion? What effects do rituals have on people? Religious and spiritual practices are often credited with making people happier and healthier. But research suggests that religious practices have some potential drawbacks. Continue reading to learn the psychology of religion, backed by research.
Journalism Layoffs Threaten Truth and Democracy
Why are journalism layoffs at an all-time high? Why is this so dangerous for society? Which outlets are the most likely to survive? Traditional journalism faces a cataclysmic crisis due to the rise of tech giants, outdated business models, and consumer behavior shifts. The crisis has led to massive job losses in journalism and increased mistrust of the media. Experts warn it could fuel manipulation in democratic processes. Keep reading to learn what’s behind the layoffs and the detrimental effects they could have.
The Cause of the Severe Weather in California
What is an atmospheric river? How are they affecting California’s weather? Will California’s weather get more or less extreme in the coming years? A record-breaking storm hit California in early February 2024, causing widespread flooding in major cities. Researchers predict that as global temperatures continue to rise, California will experience more intense storms with increased dry spells between them. Continue reading to learn what’s behind the severe weather in California and the challenges it creates.
The Advantages of Learning a Foreign Language for Your Brain
What are the advantages of learning a foreign language? Can learning another language help prevent Alzheimer’s? Do language apps actually help? Learning a second language is a big challenge for your brain. Research suggests it might be the right kind of challenge to boost your executive function, improve your cognitive skills, and even delay the symptoms of cognitive decline. Here’s the psychological research behind learning another language.
FTC Investigates Anthropic and OpenAI Monopoly Concerns
Is Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI a monopoly? What’s the extent of the FTC investigation so far? What are the potential consequences for the companies involved? The US Federal Trade Commission is investigating whether Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet’s huge investments in AI startups OpenAI and Anthropic violate antitrust laws by stifling competition. The outcome of the probe could have significant consequences for the parties involved. Here’s a more in-depth look at the FTC investigation.