Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

Another Government Shutdown May Be on the Horizon

Systemic Inequality and Racial Segregation in Housing

Why is the House in disarray? How likely is another government shutdown? What are the consequences of Congress failing to approve required spending bills on time? Disarray in the US House of Representatives has sparked concerns about a government shutdown on November 17. Some experts argue that worsening political divides increase the likelihood of a shutdown. Others counter that the passage of a temporary spending measure will avert the crisis. Continue reading to learn whether or not another government shutdown is likely, and what it would mean.

A Look at How Twitter (X) Has Changed Since Elon Musk

How has Twitter (X) changed since Elon Musk took over? Is the platform on the path to decline? Twitter, now called X, has lost over half its $44 billion value under Elon Musk’s first year of ownership. Key changes made under Musk’s direction, including mass staff layoffs, content moderation alterations, and a new subscription service have stirred controversy and decreased trust in the platform. Here’s a look at the last year of Twitter, under Musk’s leadership.

How the Global Drone Market Is Being Slowed by the FAA

What is the drone economy? How are various industries using it and what does the future promise for it? The global drone market is expanding rapidly and is expected to reach $56 billion by 2030. However, strict FAA regulations on drone flights are limiting further growth of commercial drone services. Here’s a look at the FAA’s regulations, and the potential future uses of drones.

How AI Fears Affect Mental Health (+ What Companies Can Do)

What are employees’ concerns about AI in the workplace? How can companies foster a healthy relationship between employees and AI to enhance productivity? Nearly 40% of US workers fear that AI will make their job responsibilities obsolete—and psychologists say it’s wreaking havoc on their mental health. Employees who fear that AI will take over their jobs are more likely to feel undervalued at work, experience symptoms of workplace burnout, and look for other jobs. Here’s a look at the top AI fears, and what companies can do to assuage them.

Closing Pharmacies Across the US Spark Panic

Why are many US pharmacies closing? What does that mean for the local communities? Major pharmacy chains like Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreens are closing hundreds of stores, creating “pharmacy deserts.” Continued pharmacy closures could exacerbate healthcare disparities, necessitating new approaches for equitable access to vital medications and health services in all communities. Continue reading to learn about the reason for the closing pharmacies and the potential effects.

There Is No Free Will, According to This Scientist

Do people have free will? How is the belief in free will harmful to society? After 40 years of study, neurologist Robert Sapolsky says there is no free will. He lays out what a world that doesn’t believe in free will would look like, and how it would impact the criminal justice system. Here are the arguments for and against free will, and why Sapolsky thinks believing in free will is harmful.

The United Auto Workers Union Strike: Background & Views

Does the public support the United Auto Workers union strike? Who does the strike affect the most? More than 34,000 members of the United Auto Workers union have been on strike for over a month, halting production at key plants. Polls show strong public support for the striking workers, which suggests sentiment may be shifting toward unions in the US. Continue reading for a background on the UAW strike and the opinions surrounding it.

Many Are Using Chatbots for Therapy—But Is It Safe?

Why are people turning to chatbots for therapy? Can chatbots be better than human therapists? As the mental health crisis grows, many people are wondering whether they can turn to a chatbot for support. Some have decided the answer is “yes”—but it’s unclear just how safe or effective it is to rely on a chatbot instead of a therapist. Continue reading to learn more about AI chatbot therapy.

The Benefits and Downsides of Starting a Side Hustle

Why are so many Americans starting side hustles? What are the pros and cons of having a side hustle? Nearly 40% of Americans rely on side hustles to supplement their incomes as inflation has outstripped wages. While extra earnings provide a financial cushion, side hustles can negatively impact work-life balance and health. Continue reading for more insights into the downsides and benefits of a side hustle.

Is There Still a Recession Coming, or Did We Avoid It?

Is there still a recession coming? Did the US manage to avoid the impending doom? Experts are still divided on whether the United States will face a recession, with signs pointing in both directions. Some say that interest rate hikes, oil price increases, and dwindling savings signal a possible recession. Others counter that there’s optimism for continued growth. Continue reading to learn more about the two perspectives.