Issue 174: Ramadan Mubarak!
Welcome to Backstory, a weekly newsletter turning global technology shifts into a three-minute read. This week, we’re thinking about the world.– Mary Ames, Director of Strategy
THE BIG TAKE
Ramadan Mubarak!
Ramadan Kareem! During this holy month, we are taking a moment to reflect upon the significance of this time for millions around the globe. This year, Ramadan arrives amidst a backdrop of unparalleled challenges shaping our world. From the communal iftars to the quiet moments of personal reflection, this period offers a unique opportunity to contemplate the trials we face as a global community and the resilience we can muster to overcome them. The spirit of community shines bright during this special time, and we need that spirit now more than ever.
Challenges abound. At the forefront of these challenges is the rapid ascent of artificial intelligence, which presents ethical dilemmas and societal impacts that are yet to be fully understood or regulated. AI also has the power to transform society in myriad positive ways. The indecision surrounding laws governing technology further complicates the landscape, leaving a void where guidelines are urgently needed to navigate this new terrain responsibly. Additionally, the specter of climate change continues to loom large, manifesting in extreme weather events and environmental degradation that threaten our way of life, urging immediate and decisive action to safeguard our planet for future generations.
A beacon of guidance. In response to these formidable challenges, the UAE is taking proactive steps to position itself as a leader in technological ethics and environmental stewardship. The nation is pioneering initiatives to harness the potential of AI responsibly, with a keen eye on establishing robust regulatory frameworks that ensure technological advancements serve humanity's best interests. On the environmental front, the UAE's commitment to sustainability is evident in its ambitious projects aimed at reducing carbon footprints and investing in renewable energy sources, reflecting a holistic approach to observing Ramadan's teachings on compassion and stewardship of the Earth. As we observe this sacred month, let us draw inspiration from these efforts and commit to being agents of positive change in our communities and beyond.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“The instant is not in time – time is in the instant.”
– John Barbour, actor
CHART OF THE WEEK
This week, we are thinking about renewable energy. Solar panels are surging in the United States. Could this ripple around the world?
SPOTTED ELSEWHERE
Surge algos. If you have used Uber, you are likely familiar with surge pricing. Now, several major restaurants in the US and worldwide are adopting dynamic pricing strategies to adjust the costs of their offerings based on demand and time. The technology involved in this pricing has advanced thanks to AI innovations in recent years. The shift, as outlined in several outlets, reflects a broader trend towards flexible pricing in response to economic pressures, despite consumer resistance rooted in traditional expectations of consistent pricing. It’s a delicate balance for restaurants as they navigate leveraging technological advances for revenue growth and maintaining customer satisfaction.
The danger of ultra-processed food. The connection between ultra-processed foods and mental health is emerging as a significant area of scientific inquiry, revealing potential impacts on our physical well-being and cognitive and emotional functions. Studies indicate that these foods, as described ina viral piece in the Wall Street Journal, may alter the brain's reward system and learning processes, drawing parallels to addictive substances and contributing to a proposed mental health condition termed "ultra-processed food use disorder."When we realize a deeper understanding of food's influence beyond its nutritional content, we can begin to tackle some of the challenges created by the modern food industry.
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