3 Questions. 3 Hints. 3 Answers.
November 10, 2015
1. Technological advancements to date have been largely directed toward the future. In what area are they now being directed toward the past?
Hint:
Answer: 3D technology with the assistance of other technologies like AI, augmented reality devices, algorithms, etc., may, in several years, likely be able to bring one’s friends and relatives back to life – almost. While not a “real” person, these avatars will be equipped to behave, look, interact and sound much like the deceased person they are a copy of. Tremendous progress is being made in this area on many levels. To see some of what has been accomplished so far, click here.
2. What technology “start-up” is pushing its employer out of an old comfort zone toward a new future?
Hint:
18F
Answer: in this space, 18F actually refers to the technology consultation arm of the federal government’s General Services Administration. Two of its movers & shakers, DJ Patil and Todd Park, are in the news this week as part of the brains and expertise behind the government’s transformation into a Silicon Valley type player — recruiting valuable talent to its employee roster with the promise of a mission to positively impact the lives of American citizens. In essence, what has worked well in private sector tech is being implemented in Washington with promising results. Read about the government’s data-rich, customer-focused tech-based systems here.
3. What technology was hailed as “the biggest biotech discovery of the century” by MIT Technology Review in 2014?
Hint:
Answer: CRISPR technology is currently the quickest, most precise way to edit specific genes of both animals and humans. It is a method that directs bacteria to cut DNA at a particular spot to “replace, change or disable a gene.” The hope is for this technique to eradicate debilitating genetic diseases in animal and human populations. There are, nonetheless, ethical concerns in that the technology might be used to alter hereditary characteristics resulting in all kinds of unintended, irreversible consequences for generations to come. Read more here.