Estd. 2002. Politics, tech, startups, media, law, history, philosophy
In the first of three articles, from the IHT and New York Times, Jim Yardley and William J. Broad look at space industries in China, Brazil and India, and the future of humans in space. When President George W. Bush outlined last week his ambitious vision for a new era of space exploration, one country … Continue reading “China courted by U.S. to avert new space race”
Brilliant article in the IHT today, on the rise of Chinese economy. Most strikingly, China’s share of the global economic output has doubled since 1991, fast approaching EU output. It seems like it might be China’s century, followed closely by huge growth rates in China. For decades, the United States was the world’s only significant … Continue reading “Rising consumer class hints at 'China century'”
Three major European countries returned to muted economic growth during the summer, underscoring both the momentum of the global recovery and Europe’s lagging role within it. Germany, France and the Netherlands, which together account for more than half the economic activity in the euro zone, on Thursday all reported a modest expansion of gross domestic … Continue reading “Statistics give a hint of recovery in Europe”
The truth is that one out of every two long-term smokers will ultimately be killed by tobacco. In developed countries, half will be killed in old age, after age seventy, but the other half will be killed in middle age, before age seventy, and those who die from smoking before age seventy will lose more … Continue reading “”
Few Americans are even aware that the Chinese are preparing the launching of Shenzhou V. That it is likely to occur while the U.S. shuttle fleet is grounded will magnify how the United States and the world perceive China’s technological achievement. Certainly, some in Washington will react by claiming that the launching requires the United … Continue reading “Now China is sending a man into space. Why?”
The Atlantic has a very interesting interview with Robert Kaplan, following his article on the subject of how and why America projects its power around the world. I would encourage everyone to read this – I have selected what I think were the most pointed questions, but you can follow the link and read the … Continue reading “Robert Kaplan: The Hard Edge of American Values”
Karlin has also linked to a story in today’s Observer on new drinks to appear on the market this month. They are your average alcopops, like Bacardi Breezer or Smirnoff Ice – but with a twist. Powerful blends of Chinese aphrodisiacs, vodka and passion fruit will create a ‘generation of randy super beings’, according to … Continue reading “Horny sex alcopops”
Yes those Chinese are at it again. First it was their very own space station and now they are building aircraft to rival the US. Another blow to US power? Time will tell.