The corona virus: is it really that bad?
In several countries worldwide, some people are worried about the economy and also about their temporary inability to go to pubs and restaurants. It is almost as if they don't believe that this virus is a real threat to human health. Well, I can tell you, unfortunately from my personal experience, you really don't want to get infected. I consider my body still to be in excellent health, and my immunity is quite good, but this virus literately drains your energy for days, I hope it will not be weeks. And we should really take responsibility and take care of our most vulnerable people. Many people will still die, so please stop whining about economic impact. This is also important, but first we have to stay alive. And for those people worrying about not being able to go the café tonight, see the gif below.
The role of dedication and hard work...
…has been fading away, from our society, from elementary and high schools, and even from universities. All what seems to count is impressive publication metrics. Nobody still has time to thoroughly and carefully write publications, PhD theses, design courses, prepare for meetings. Everything became quick and dirty. That is also because many writers assume that nobody is going to read their text in details anyway. This may sound negative, but it is the truth. At the same time, this evolution also holds opportunity for those aware of this problem. They know how to distinguish 'inaccurate bulk texts' from high quality manuscripts. Tools to filter information will be the next big thing…I assume.
The rapid evolving of (programming) languages
As nicely described in this article by Dan Kopf, also (programming) languages are evolving at a rapid pace. Only the formation of a Belgian government seems to take forever, again…
The impact of climate change is finally weighing on the public debate
In my opinion, politicians should probably take the following initiatives: (i) collaborate on the climate topic rather than quarrel about it; (ii) establish national and local climate workforces, focusing on data collection, on modelling and simulation, and on implementation of actions; (iii) involve all of us by requesting proposals for individual actions. The third initiative should be enforced by asking individuals to publicly post proof of adherence to their own proposals.
The following links are interesting sources of in formation in the context of the climate debate:
- https://www.klimaat.be/nl-be/klimaatverandering/belgie/belgische-uitstoot/evolutie-van-de-uitstoot
- https://extranet.febiac.be/public/content.aspx?FID=558
