Serfdom’s Long Shadow: How Russia’s Past Shaped Its Economy

How Serfdom Shaped Russia's Economy: An 18th-Century Deep Dive

Hello fellow history enthusiasts! Rowan here, back from another research trip that’s left me pondering the deep roots of economic systems. Today, I want to take you to 18th-century Russia, a time when the institution of serfdom wasn’t just a social structure, but a foundational element that profoundly influenced the nation’s economic trajectory. When we … Read more

Palantir Deepens Its Roots in Government Operations

Palantir's Growing Influence in Government Data Analytics

As someone who’s spent decades in the tech world, I’ve seen firsthand how software can reshape industries. Lately, a lot of the conversation has been about artificial intelligence, but sometimes the older, more established players are making significant moves too. Palantir, a company known for its big data analytics platforms, is one such player, and … Read more

Your Data: Who’s Holding It and Why Should You Care?

Data Privacy: Understanding Collection, Storage, and Use

As someone who’s spent decades in the tech world, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly things change. Today, data is everywhere. It’s collected, stored, and used in ways that were unimaginable even twenty years ago. My own journey into thinking about ethical technology development naturally leads me to consider data privacy. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed … Read more

AI Ethics: Building a Future We Can Trust

AI Ethics: Building a Future We Can Trust

As someone who has spent decades in the tech industry, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly innovation can move. Today, that pace is set by artificial intelligence, and it’s moving at an incredible speed. With this rapid advancement comes a critical need to talk about AI ethics. It’s not just a philosophical debate; it’s about building … Read more

Windows Didn’t Fix My Electric Bill, So What’s Next?

Home Energy Efficiency: Beyond New Windows

I used to think upgrading my windows would be the magic bullet for my home’s energy efficiency. Like many of you, I was hoping for a noticeable dip in my electric bill. After all, the old ones were drafty, and I envisioned crisp, cool air staying inside during summer and warm air remaining cozy within … Read more

Climate Change Isn’t Just About Polar Bears: It’s About Our Health, Too

Climate Change and Health Disparities: How Climate Affects Us Unequally

Did you know that the changing climate isn’t just an environmental issue, but a significant public health concern, particularly for already vulnerable populations? As a scientist who has spent years modeling our atmosphere and studying urban heat islands, I’ve seen firsthand how these environmental shifts disproportionately affect communities. Let’s talk about health disparities and climate … Read more

From Concrete to Cucumbers: My Backyard Transformation

From Concrete to Cucumbers: My Backyard Garden Transformation

Back in 2025, my suburban backyard was mostly forgotten. A patchy lawn, a tired swing set, and a whole lot of unused space. I looked at it and saw a missed opportunity. Today, it’s a different story. It’s a vibrant, productive garden buzzing with life, and it all started with a simple idea: to grow … Read more

India vs. China: Beyond the Tech Race

India vs. China: Understanding Their Unique Technological Paths

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing nations, especially when it comes to technology and development. For years, India and China have been on many people’s minds, often placed side-by-side in discussions about global progress. While the allure of a direct comparison is strong, it often overlooks the nuanced realities of each nation’s … Read more