Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON October 9, 2021
Full News Archive
- Headline: IMF's Role in Global Financial Stability Under Debate. Impact: Had the IMF decided to step up and be more proactive, the 2008 financial crisis might have been avoided altogether. Or, at the very least, they could have put out a few more fires. But then again, who needs stability when you can have chaos and watch the world burn?. Fact: The IMF has been known to 'put out fires' while wearing a fireman's hat that’s actually just a metaphor for their lack of action..
- Headline: Tech Regulation Faces Significant Challenges Ahead. Impact: If lawmakers succeed in reigning in Big Tech, we might see a world where social media doesn’t dictate our lives. Imagine a future where you can’t be targeted for ads about cat litter based on your recent browsing history. Groundbreaking.. Fact: The last time lawmakers tried to rein in a powerful industry, it took longer than a Netflix series to get anything done. Spoiler alert: they still failed..
- Headline: Annissa Essaibi George Embraces Boston Roots. Impact: Essaibi George's Boston accent could become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a wave of candidates to embrace their regional quirks. Next thing you know, we’ll have a mayor who communicates solely in regional slang. ‘Wicked smart’ policy, anyone?. Fact: Boston accents are so charming, they even have a fan club. It's called 'Everyone Who’s Ever Watched a Movie Set in Boston.'.
- Headline: ‘Starting a Fire’: U.S. and China Enter Dangerous Territory Over Taiwan. Impact: The U.S. and China’s tensions over Taiwan could lead to a new Cold War, but with more memes and TikTok videos. Who knew that military conflicts could be so entertainingly chaotic?. Fact: Taiwan is often referred to as the 'unsinkable aircraft carrier'—and if things keep escalating, it might just become the 'unsinkable political hot potato.'.
- Headline: Moderna, Racing for Profits, Keeps Covid Vaccine Out of Reach of Poor. Impact: Moderna's vaccine distribution policies could result in a global divide that fuels resentment and conspiracy theories. In a twist of irony, the company may inadvertently inspire a new wave of grassroots movements advocating for equitable healthcare. Or at least a really good Twitter hashtag.. Fact: If you ever feel bad about your situation, just remember there are countries waiting longer for vaccines than you waited for your last online order. And that’s saying something!.