On Bills, Presidents, and Kill Switches

The United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs approved a bill yesterday that would give the President emergency powers to shut down any civilian or government network in case of a cyber-attack. If you're asking me, this is a stop-gap measure instead of a fix.

On Minerals, War, and Afghanistan

A geological survey in Afghanistan recently uncovered a great wealth in the country: approximately one trillion dollars worth of iron, cobalt, nickel, molybdenum, niobium, lithium and other rare earths. Enough, in fact, to transform the country into 'The Saudi Arabia of lithium', according to a Pentagon memo. But will this mineral wealth actually save the country, or plunge it further into war?

On Cars, Traffic, and Networks

European researchers are developing an ubiquitous wireless network for use in traffic management. Lights, signs, cars, etc would communicate wirelessly, in order to minimize jams, smooth traffic flow, and improve safety. But is the system all the good it seems?

On Oil Wells, Kills, and Nukes

BP has admitted that 'Operation Top Kill' has failed, after pumping 30,000 barrels of drilling mud and other materials. The worst spill in the history of the United States is still continuing, and it's time to look for other measures.