Bøger af Lisa Idzikowski

Despite recent outbreaks and warnings of a future global pandemic, the world seemed largely unprepared when COVID-19 quickly spread from China to Europe to the United States and beyond. In the US the response was slow and heavily politicized. What went wrong and what can be done to ensure the country is prepared for the next pandemic? Carefully selected viewpoints from experts in the field explore the virus and how it spread; the scientific community's scramble to understand, treat, and vaccinate; and how science and politics can work together in the future.

Like other large global corporations, the technology sector known as "Big Tech" possesses the money and power to disproportionately influence society. But so far, many of these companies have escaped scrutiny and regulation while enjoying the benefits of a relatively new--and not always understood--medium. Should social media companies be considered publishers, being held accountable for spreading misinformation? Does technology increase extremism and other harmful behaviors? Is it too late to change? The viewpoints in this volume explore the fascinating debate surrounding what responsibility Big Tech should take when it comes to upholding democratic principles.

The term "artificial intelligence" was introduced in 1956. Today's AI is accomplishing the original goal of mirroring human thought processes; it's designed to independently adapt to and learn from new data. AI involves programming machines and robots to automatically complete complicated tasks. The opportunities to simplify and enhance daily life that these machines offer could make them instrumental in advancing the development of humankind. However, concerns about what can be accomplished through robotics, the extent to which humans can control sophisticated AI, and the impact robots and AI will have on labor, warfare, and health must also be considered. This volume presents thoughtful, well-researched essays that help readers analyze this topic and develop their own intelligent viewpoints.

Give your readers a comprehensive resource that will allow them to form intelligent opinions on a perennial, hot-button topic. Since the smallpox vaccine was invented in 1796, vaccination has played an essential role in eradicating a number of diseases, including polio, measles, tetanus, and smallpox. Despite its effectiveness at preventing disease outbreaks, vaccination has been met with resistance. It has on rare occasions caused patients to become injured or ill, encouraging some to deduce that they are not worth the risk. Questions about whether vaccines are linked to autism also abound. While universal vaccination would help to eliminate diseases, the question of whether it violates individual liberty merits consideration. The prospective future of vaccination is also discussed.

Hunting game has been a way of life for humans for two million years. Today, people around the world hunt both as a source of food and for sport. While its critics argue that hunting is barbaric and a rich man's sport, its supporters defend the activity in terms of tradition, culture, and population control. Of course, there are still societies around the world that depend on hunting to survive. But for the rest, can hunting ever be justified? The diverse perspectives in this volume will surprise students who may already have made up their minds on the subject.

Western medicine has not traditionally respected or accepted alternatives such as acupuncture and homeopathic remedies. Many cultures around the globe, however, champion what we call alternative medicine. Why are some so quick to dismiss alternative options while others believe they can almost work miracles? Is it simply a matter of educating doctors and patients? Are such therapies rigorously tested and regulated? The viewpoints in this resource explore the potential benefits and dangers of alternative therapies, providing readers with provocative questions to consider.

What is the Electoral College, and do the American people really need it? Should the popular vote determine the winner in any given presidential election? This anthology examines the origin and purpose of the Electoral College and offers balanced arguments for and against its use in the general election process. Readers will see how the Electoral College and popular vote can function harmoniously together, as well as examples supporting the viewpoint that the system has broken down and doesn't reflect the popular will.