7.8 billion is the loneliest number

There are more people on Earth than ever before, most of us living in teeming cities. Yet, despite the devices which theoretically connect us to everyone else, loneliness is a growing problem. The answer lies with us.

The genius – and madness – of advanced AI

Multi-agent artificial intelligence (MAAI) can be used to model the social, health and economic effects of possible scenarios and improve social planning, however technology can also be misused by those with the power to control it.

Climate change drives global political and religious strife

Based on information obtained from National Centre for Climate Restoration in Melbourne, Alan Stevenson outlines the threat which climate change poses to vulnerable nations around the world, and its role as a catalyst in terrorism and political instability.

A Ministry of Loneliness?

Loneliness is an increasing social problem despite, or because of, the increasing population density of our cities and our reliance on social media. Would the creation of a ‘Ministry of Loneliness’ signal society’s intention to take this problem more seriously?

It’s time to step back from privacy paranoia

Alan Stevenson argues that individuals’ concern about privacy protection is hampering the benefits which more digital services, such as the new MyHealth record, can bring to the whole of society.

Energy from waste – the rise of biogas

Could biogas be the answer to excessive food wastage in Australia, not to mention an opportunity to decrease the use of fossil fuels? Alan Stevenson ponders the benefits of biogas from anaerobic digesters.

Use it or lose it – the ageing activist

Engaging in community work after retirement, leads to great benefits for both the volunteer and society. After many years working in the computer industry, Alan Stevenson decided to share his knowledge. He explains both the challenges and the rewards he has faced, teaching an ageing population.

Deep Thought – Artificial Intelligence

A computers ability to learn is increasing quickly, however computer logic and human logic are not one and the same. Alan Stevenson considers what this means for society.

Truth – easy come, easy go

We tend to believe that we are logical and scientific in our approach to the world around us, but are we really able to control our bias? Alan Stevenson questions whether we are able to overcome a lifetime of conditioning and see the ‘truth’.

Big data – what is it and why is it important?

The government is currently asking the public to comment on a draft Guide to big data and the Australian Privacy Principles. Alan Stevenson says we need to take a step back and talk about both the power and limitations of big data.

Migrants an asset for Australia

More than 240 million people worldwide are international migrants. Alan Stevenson explains why the ones coming to Australia are exactly the type of people we need, particularly in our small country towns.