One hundred seventy years ago, tuberculosis was a lethal disease. This illness posed a significant threat to humanity, resulting in an estimated 1 billion deaths between 1700 and 1900. Notably, traces of tuberculosis have been found in the mummies of ancient Egyptian kings. In the late 1840s, German botanist Hermann Brehmer, confronted with the fatality of tuberculosis, relocated to the Himalayas in search of fresh air. Remarkably, he survived and is believed to have successfully fought off Mycobacterium tuberculosis in that less favorable environment for bacterial growth. As a result, numerous nursing homes emerged across Europe and the United States, including specialized facilities for tuberculosis care and luxury accommodations for the affluent. However, by the 1940s, many of these nursing homes began closing due to the emergence of antibiotics, which drastically changed their economic viability. Throughout history, it seems that economic value often proves transient. - Joseph’s “j...
A Korean AI company developed a language-learning AI for a 5-year-old, splitting it into two systems: one displaying only children’s videos and the other showcasing YouTube videos. After two months of learning, the company was eager to assess the results. They found that children using YouTube, with fewer restrictions, had better language-learning outcomes than those who watched only children’s videos. This raised a thought in me: parents’ efforts to protect their children from certain influences may stem from an unreasonable desire. Striving for perfection can feel woefully inadequate in this world. Isn’t the essence of education about equipping individuals with the knowledge of right and wrong and guiding them to maintain their humanity? - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”