I Believe in Net-neutrality

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/posttech/2010/12/fcc.html

Courtesy: The Washington Post

TSA Blamed For Inefficiency

National security:
TSA is spending big money to acquire and use new technologies at the nation's airports.  But the agenciy's decision has put on the crosshairs of the auditors who claim that the agency has not efficiently allocated and utilized money its financial resources in implementing these technologies.

Click on the link below to read more.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/20/AR2010122005599.html?sid=ST2010122005959

Courtesy: The Washington Post

News Snippets

Global economic forecast (BRIC):
The quarterly forecast on the BRIC countries.
http://www.eiu.com/graphics/quarterlyforecasts/G3_BRICs_ChartBook.pdf

Courtesy: The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU)


Net-neutrality:
The pressure on the internet providers is on.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/20/AR2010122005769.html

Courtesy: The Washington Post


Census 2010:
The U.S. population is 308,745,538.
http://www.2010.census.gov/

Courtesy: The Census Bureau

Save Our Planet: do something about it now

Courtesy: YouTube

News On Technology

Renewable energy:
China controls wind turbine production
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/15/business/global/15chinawind.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&ref=todayspaper

E-Reader:
Publishers add color (and fun) to e-books for children
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/15/business/media/15ebooks.html?ref=technology

Tourism:
Ukraine will open Chernobyl site to tourists
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/14/on-our-radar-chernobyl-to-open-to-tourists/?ref=energy-environment

Courtesy: The New York Times

The Middle East Crisis: an achilles heel

The world cannot live with it. It cannot live without it. A cliche, perhaps. But a fitting one, nonetheless. The Middle East crisis consumes the Arab and the Jewish world like a bad habit. The world leaders unite again to discuss the problem. But the problem has been just that -- discussion. The world has done little to bring peace between the Arabs and the Jews. The world has done little to draw an acceptable line between the two groups. The results are obvious and not new -- chaos, bombing, deaths, and threats.

Click on the link below to read more on this topic.

http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2010/12/14/news_brief_eu_shelves_recognizing_palestinian_state

Courtesy: Foreign Policy

Afghanistan In 2010: the images of a war-torn country

A brilliant slideshow on Afghanistan.

http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2010/12/13/afghanistan_2010_a_year_in_photos

Courtesy: Foreign Policy

America Lost A Diplomat But The World Lost A Human

Richard Holbrooke, a Statesman, a gentleman, a politician, an intellectual, passed away at the age of 69.  He is known for brokering the peace negotiation during   the Balkan crisis in 1995.  He was a hard-charging diplomat who never relented from a challange.  President Obama said, "He never stops. He never quits. Because he's always believed that if we stay focused, if we act on our mutual interests, that progress is possible. Wars can end. Peace can be forged" (Chandrasekaran, 2010).

Click on the links below to read more about Richard Holbrooke.

The Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/13/AR2010121305198.html

Foreign Policy:
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2010/12/14/remembering_richard_holbrooke

Information Technology & Healthcare: people's lives at a crossroad

E-Health:
Is standardization possible?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yae3p31drGo&feature=related

E-Health:
What's the future of IT in improving healthcare?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rq4OugnHdZ8&NR=1

Courtesy: YouTube

News On Technology

Technology + South America:
Investment and innovation of technology in South America
http://www.innovationmanagement.se/2010/11/24/innovation-in-south-america/
http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0018/001898/189823e.pdf

Technology + Nepal:
Investment and innovation of technology in Nepal
http://www.nitc.gov.np/
http://www.nast.org.np/

Cloud computing:
The U.S. Federal agencies adopt cloud computing
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/10/AR2010121006106.html

Social networking:
The power of internet and social networking reaches the marginalized
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/12/AR2010121203509.html

China's Iron Grip On Censorship

China is setting a 21st-century standard for media manipulation that many outsiders have failed to adequately appreciate. The Chinese Communist Party has leveraged China's growing economic wealth, using advanced censorship techniques that use market forces to reinforce its political control.

Click on the link below to read more.

http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2010/12/10/censorship_without_borders

Courtesy: Foreign Policy

WikiLeak Leaks: what lesson to be learned from these revelations

So Julian Assange is on trial.  For what?  Rape, espionage?  No charges stuck as of now.  The Swedish rape law states that if sexual encounter begins with a consensus then rape cannot be ruled even if the encounter becomes non-consensual.  In other words, if a partner commits to a sexual act he/she cannot claim rape even if the act becomes non-consensual afterwards.

Regarding espionage, Mr. Assange did not publish anything that we don't know already.  The WikiLeak reports are hardly any deepthroat information.  So what did these reports really reveal?  Did we learn anything new?

Click on the link below to read more on this topic.   

http://www.slate.com/id/2277764/?from=rss

Courtesy: Foreign Policy

The Rise of The African Nations

The African countries are becoming prosperous through investment, innovation of technology, and political and social reform.  Angola and Eqatorial Guinea are a prime examples of the emerging prosperity among the African countries.

Click on the link below to read more on this topic.

The African Miracle - By Norbert Dörr, Susan Lund, and Charles Roxburgh | Foreign Policy

Courtesy: Foreign Policy

Google's Expansion: a concern from companies, countries, and government

Google is everywhere on the net. What started out as a search engine has turned into a dominant providers of a multitude of services – from movies, videos, games, and just about everything else or so it seems. Now Google is planning to buy ITA, a software that provides airline reservations. Soon, Google will decide where and how far we would want to travel. Google’s expansion is taking place at a breath-taking speed. And not everyone is happy about that. To some extent, some are outright fearful of Google’s expansion. The European Commission, for example, is investigating Google’s techniques and practices for search results. The Justice Department and FTC are looking into Google’s merger and acquisitions and anti-trust violations. But the company seems to be nonchalant and denies any wrongdoing.

Click on the link below to read more on this topic.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/12/AR2010121201798.html?referrer=emailarticle&sid=ST2010121202652

Courtesy: The Washington Post

Technology As We See IT

This week's technology topics follow:


Snippet # 1

New America Foundation, November 19, 2010

Topic:

Innovation and technology

Link:

http://oti.newamerica.net/blogposts/2010/design_philosophies_to_empower_marginalized_communities-40334

Description:

This article describes innovative technological initiatives to empower the marginalized population.  Ms. Rhea discussed three innovative designs:  Human-centered design (HCD), Appprpriate technology (AT), and Participatory technology design (PD).   HCD focuses on describing the process of the technology design, AT focuses on the parameters of efficient and less expensive technology solutions to he participants, and PD focuses on the active participation of the constituents.

Why do I like it:

I like this article because it illustrates technology solutions to the marginalized population who may not have access to technology but have the capacity to learning.

Snippet # 2

Technology Review, November 22, 2010

Topic:

Green IT/energy

Link:

http://www.technologyreview.com/energy/26759/?mod=chfeatured

Description:

This article describes a method of creating energy from biogas by Huishan, a Chinese firm, to mitigate emission of methane to the environment.  According to the article methane is more potent than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas.  The item that will be used to produce biogas is cow manure.   Producing electricity from manure has been minimal, only two mega-watt.  But Huishan’s initiative is expected to produce 20 million cubic meters of biogas.

Why do I like it:

I like it because it illustrates how serious China has become about green house emission and protecting climate.

Snippet # 3

Wired, November 29, 2010

Topic:

Technology and science

Link:

http://www.wired.com/magazine/2010/11/mf_algorithmolympics/

Description:This is unbelievable!  A story about computer programming competition for highschool protégés from around the world.   This year’s competition took place at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada.  Three hundred and fifteen protégés competed.  Among them were a kid from Belarus and a kid from the States.  The two had an intense rivalry although the kid from Belarus was a clear favorite.  The competitors are allowed to use three programming languages, Pascal, C, and C++.  The Pascal is popular in Asia and East Europe while C and C++ are widely used in the States. 

Why do I like it:

I like this story because it describes the passion for science, math, and computer among the students all around the world.

Alphabet-filled Resumes Do Not Tell The Whole Story

I love this article. Since the days of internet boom, IT workers have become increasingly reliant on certifications to land on high-paying jobs. Conversely, the companies also have shown their interest in hiring IT workers with alphabet-induced resumes. Certifications provide added knowledge and there is no question about it. But not all certifications and individuals always offer right skills to do the jobs right. Companies must assess skills and requirements of the potential hires innovative and challenging ways that bring out the best of them.

Click on the link below to read an article on this topic.

http://fcw.com/articles/2009/12/01/comment-castro-certification.aspx

Courtesy: ITIF

Why Technology Policy Matters

The neoclassical and neo-Keynesian economists believe countries do not compete.  The firms do.  Paul Krugman, the noted economist, asserts that “countries are not to any important degree in competition with one another” (Ezell & Atkinson, 2010).  But the political, social, and economical climate is dynamically shifting.  The emerging of the BRIIC countries is a testament to globalization.  It also signifies a balance of soft powers – the dominance and emergence of economic gain – from the industrial countries to the emerging countries.

Click on the link below to read an article on this topic.

http://www.itif.org/files/2010-good-bad-ugly.pdf

Courtesy: ITIF

Waving Flag: k'naan official WC 2010 song

Waka Waka: Shakira's WC 2010 theme song

DSLRs Soon To Become 3-DSLRs: the emergence of 3D Camera

Next to the alphabets now add a digit and make it look like this: 3DSLR.  Yes, the 3D digital cameras are on their way to the market. I believe 3D cameras will have a deeper market than the 3D TVs.  Size, cost, and simplicity could be the advantages for 3DSLR. 

Click on the link below to read an article on 3DSLR.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/08/business/media/08adco.html?_r=1&ref=technology

Courtesy: The New York Times

Twitter, YouTube, Google: news on technology

The New York Times: On Twitter
Eight percent of the internet userers visit Twitter.
http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/8-percent-of-american-internet-users-go-to-twitter-report-says/?ref=technology


The New York Times: on YouTube
YouTube lifts 15-minute limit on videos.
http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/youtube-lifts-time-limit-for-some-videos/


The New York Times: On Google
What people searched on Google in 2010 -- a review.
http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/the-words-we-searched-in-2010-from-google/?ref=technology

Courtesy: The New York Times

Independence of Bangladesh: a collection of videos

Bangladesh was born in 1971. Free from the ignorance and indifference of the brutal leaders of West Pakistan, Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan, some 1100 miles from the West, separated by India in the Middle. It took nine months of bloody battles to free East from the West. To declare Bangladesh as a new free country. The people of Bangladesh for the first time was free on Dec. 16 to say Joi Bangla -- Victorious Bangladesh. And free became the people of Bangladesh.


The following videos illustrate vivid depiction of the independence of Bangladesh during the 1971 war.

Khulna:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAoHaBwwStI

Indira Gandhi:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X_Ex5CCxsk

News report:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHlDwu6tigg

Random video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqV7PiVJRb0

Yahya Khan:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpBC6CTgeSg

Bhutto:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Q5tvAYi5js

Surrender:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjrNpwLysr8

Dhaka in 1971:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1q-7QLng44

Sheigk Mujib 1:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWEPrAPZOcU

Speech:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep74MqbXEWU

ABC news:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-5HzJZmMHo

History:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fy554fdH1Hc

Courtesy of all videos: YouTube

The Price of Bangladeshi Independence

Women were tortured and violated. Shamed. Scarred. And killed. The West Pakistan Army carried out unspeakable acts of horror and terror for nine months. The Bangladeshi's never relented, Never gave in. Not even the women who were tortured and violated.
Bangladesh was born not out of the horrors of yet another darkest chapter in human history but out of courage, resolve, and strength of the characters of the Bangladeshis.




Courtesy: YouTube

Bangladesh Genocide: Dhaka University Massacre

A classic, rare, and vivid example of Bangladesh Independence. An engineering professor shot this video from the rooftop of an university housing some 300 yards away.






Courtesy: YouTube

Fight For the Cloud: a new sector in service-oriented business

Fight for the cloud -- the battle for cloud has begun. The giant companies like Microsoft and Google are jostling for a stronghold in the emerging cloud market, especially in the government sector where contracts are longer and lucrative. For example, Google won a five-year General Services Administration (GSA) contract for $6.7 million and Microsoft a similar contract for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Both contracts require managing web-based email and various other services. The benefits of these services include agencies not having to use their own servers on the network, automatic updates which do not require updates on individual workstations. The updates will take effect globally. The enterprise market, especially in large scale and scope, for cloud computing is beginning to influence both public and private sectors. Government, in particular, with its investment in technological innovation, is in a great position to take advantage of the cloud computing.

Click on the following links to read more on this topic.

Link 1:

http://washpost.bloomberg.com/Story?docId=1376-LD2W2A0UQVI901-2OG40QINNVPPCP8RPCT10O3QEU

Link 2:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/05/AR2010120503320.html

Courtesy: The Washington Post

Technology's Unintended Consequences: today's highschool kids

The pervasive, intrusive, and innovative nature of technology is perhaps nowhere more visible than on the grounds of highschools across the country. The kids are always on the airwave. The intersection between technology and everyday life of the highschool kids has become more prominent in ways that it is hard to separate the two. In some ways it is outright scary and in some ways it is outright mind-boggling. There are many sides to this effect of technology.


Follow the link below to view a video report on the effect technology on highschool kids.



Courtesy: The New York Times

Eye-Fi: a seamlessly interactive innovation

Move over Photoshop. Here comes Eye-Fi, a whole new way of uploading images instantly and interactively. Distributed and cloud computing are converging into a system where users now can have the media devices such as a digital camera, storage unit on the cloud, and Wi-Fi network connected all at the same time to share and distribute information anywhere and anytime.

Click on the link below to read more about Eye-Fi.

http://www.economist.com/blogs/babbage/2010/12/wireless_photo_transfers

Courtesy: The economist

Distributed Computing: a new era of desk-top computing

Distributed computing:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/nov/17/weatherathome-climate-change-weather-project
This article shows that home PC users will be able to analyze the effect of climate change on local weather patterns.

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-distributed-computing.htm
This website, WiseGeek, contains information about distributed computing.

Digital Nomads: a new breed of workers

Digital nomads:

http://almostfearless.com/2009/01/19/becoming-a-digital-nomad-options-for-working-remotely-from-anywhere/
This article discusses how to become a digital nomad and what are the implications of becoming one.

http://www.freepursuits.com/10-digital-nomads-to-learn-from
This article cites real-life experiences of being digital nomads from well-known bloggers, authors, and reporters.

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9136154/Is_digital_nomad_living_going_mainstream
This article raises questions whether working from home or elsewhere by leveraging technology is becoming a norm.

http://www.lifeofjustin.com/what-is-a-digital-nomad-1889/
This article discusses basic information about digital nomads like what is a digital nomad and who are they.

http://www.infowars.com/our-destiny-digital-nomads-in-a-virtual-void/
This article illustrates how UK has become a place for the digital nomads as people in various parts of UK are increasingly working from home or elsewhere.

Video -- YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49WeeSQWyzI

Working From Home: will it become a norm?

Flexible jobs can be a powerful tool to attract and retain top talent.  When done right, flex jobs—defined as jobs that allow employees to contribute their skills outside the standard workweek—offer several benefits. They appeal to burned-out employees who are seeking sustainability. They allow employees, particularly women, to stay engaged and continue to advance during periods when they confront dilemmas such as caring for children or aging parents and managing 60-hour work weeks or extensive travel.

However, so far very few companies have mastered the art of carefully designing and implementing effective flexible job models. While many companies offer flexible work models such as part-time, telecommuting and leaves of absence, the latest research from Bain & Company shows that is not enough.

Read Bain's full pdf report

Courtesy: Economist Intelligence Unit

Bloom Energy: an energy company's ambition to combat e-waste

By manipulating electrons, Bloom Energy, an innovating energy company is attacking e-waste to minimize toxic pollution in the environment.

FreshDialogues conducted an interview with the CEO of Bloom Energy who shares his vision of his company.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrApTMCWyEw&NR=1

Courtesy: FreshDialogues

The Nature of 4G: caveat emptor

This article describes what 4G really means to the customers when it comes to speed.  It is not always what the sellers are saying it is.  The consumers must proactively research on 4G before signing up with its providers.   

http://www.economist.com/blogs/babbage/2010/12/mobile_phones&fsrc=nwl

Courtesy: The Economist

The Green Technology: is it sustainable?

The Green IT has taken the earth by storm. But what lies ahead of this trend? Is is viable, affordable, feasible, or sustainable? No one knows for sure. The opposing politicians in countries like the U.S. squabble over this issue to persuade (or dissuade) voters. The progress of Green IT is minimal. China continues to burn fossil fuel as its economy rages on. All the while the climate gets warmer, sea level rises, and glaciers melt, creating and endangering the ecological balance.


Here's a FreshDialogues interview with an economist at The Economist magazine.



Courtesy: FreshDialogues

The Amazing Race in Dhaka

Courtesy: YouTube

Holt Honors Dr. Muhammad Yunus

Courtesy: YouTube

Grameen Danone: a Social Business (with English subtitles)

Two cups of yogurt per week for a year and life grows for a child.



Courtesy: YouTube

Grameen Shakti: Grameen power

Courtesy: Holly M. (bonsaimovie.com)

Grameen Green Children Eye Hospital

I see you...



Courtesy: YouTube

Grameen Check: Grameen clothing

Courtesy: Holly M. (bonsaimovie.com)

Grameen Shikkha: Grameen Education

Courtesy: Holly M. (Bonsaimovie.com)

Social Entrepreneurship: it's not about money

Theories and models to improve our lives abound. But they do not act alone. Intuition and instinct are just as important and crucial. They are all part of a model that require creative, analytical, and implementation skills. When Dr. Yunus first lent $27 to the women in village, he was, as my instinct tells me, very aware of the return on his investment. But his focus and creative mind were else where – how to free women from the tyranny of the village loan sharks. In other words, empowering women was the driving factor for his social initiative which ultimately gave birth to microlending.

To change the way we think is to change the world. And that means we empower people’s lives. Dr. Yunus’ tireless efforts to eradicate poverty and empower people have left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of those who once seem powerless but are now enriched, educated, and prospered.

Dr. Yunus’ social entrepreneurial efforts must earn return on their investments. The return is the wellbeing of people. Everything else follows after that.

Here’s a brilliant film on Grameen made by Holly Mosher.

http://bonsaimovie.com/


Courtesy: Holly Mosher

Wellbeing and GDP: a perfect conundrum

Economic wellbeing and income are related.  But they do not solely depend on one another.  Other economic factors such as output per worker, investment, and consumption must be considered.  In addition, other non-economic factors such as democracy and environment must play a role in determining wellbeing.  Economic prosperity, the term often used interchangeably with wellbeing, varies from country to country.  Researches indicate that while rich countries generally enjoy higher economic wellbeing, countries in developing countries also enjoy higher economic wellbeing.  In some cases, developing countries score higher in economic wellbeing than some rich countries.  Economic development tends to level off at a certain level.  Beyond that level, the economic factors become less important in determining wellbeing.  Quality of life style becomes more desirable.  Factors such as democracy and values are crucial in extending people’s wellbeing. 

To sum up, income enhances wellbeing.  But it does not guarantee wellbeing for a longer period of time and income must be accompanied by other economic and non-economic factors.  The economic and non-economic factors complement each other to determine economic wellbeing.  The institutions of sound economic factors such as production, investment, and government policies must be aligned to enhance wellbeing of individuals.

Click on the link below to read a brilliant article on well-being and GDP which has been recently published in The Economist.

http://www.economist.com/node/17578888?story_id=17578888

Source: The Economist, November 2010

Plasman, LCD, or LED: a right to make a right decision

A lots of choices and confusions still remain when it comes to buying a HDTV.  Although Plasma TVs have given a way for the LCDs, a lot to be still considered between a LCD and LED.  And not to mention the up and coming 3D Tv.

Please click on the following link to read the article on this issue.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/24/AR2010112402612.html

Source: The Washington Post

Technology As We See IT

This week's technology snippets focus on the following topics:

Snippet # 1

Tech Review, November 15, 2010

Topic:

Social networking

Link:

http://www.technologyreview.com/web/26718/page1/

Description:

This article describes Facebook’s attempt to offer a web-based email like yahoo or Gmail with johndoe@facebook.com format.  The users will also be able to integrate their existing email accounts with Facebook messaging environment.  This is a grand attempt for the company as industry analysts speculate that the company is on its way to bite into the advertising revenues of Google, Yahoo, and other internet-based email service providers.  Facebook’s email service is not available to public yet.  But despite all the speculation and hoopla, Facebook’s anticipated email service has some limitations.  It has no subject line and has no traditional IMAP email protocol support, which offers a robust and a secure email infrastructure.   

Why do I like it:

I like this article because it illustrates not only Facebook’s continued domination of the social networking market but also its technological innovation to create an integrated platform of communication.

Snippet # 2

CNet News, November 18, 2010

Topic:

Web 2.0

Link:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13577_3-20023194-36.html?tag=topStories2

Description:

You didn't see the real nature of industry competition unfolding on the Web 2.0 Summit stage, that's for sure. But the malaise may be overblown; Valley veterans should know better than anyone else that when a company grows big and becomes more focused on staying big than on innovating, it's screwed. The pace of development in the industry means another will step in faster than you can say "Microsoft." Investors who've pumped ungodly amounts of money into stupid ideas will feel the burn. There may be setbacks, but things really can keep moving forward.

Why do I like it:

I like this article because it describes the longevity or the lack therof of internet technology.

Snippet # 3

The Washington Post, November 15, 2010

Topic:

Spectrum/net-neutrality

Link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/15/AR2010111503100.html

Description:

The spectrum for public use, 500 megahertz, will not last long.  The broadband companies are asking government for an additional 500 megahertz of spectrum.  The republicans are not interested in this issue and they have just gained the majority in the House through a colossal power shift.  So what does that leave the future of net-neutrality?   Consumers’ craving for fast internet has broadened as more hand held devices such as iPhone and iPad saturate the spectrum market.  Julius Genachowski, FCC Chairman and a strong advocate for net-neutrality is aware of the potential spectrum problem.  According to The Washington Post he has “warned of a "looming spectrum crisis" - particularly in dense, urban areas - as more and more Americans go online using wireless networks.”   The issue of net-neutrality must be resolved.  A lot is riding on this. 

Says Genachowski, “The future of our mobile economy depends on spectrum … If we don't act to update our spectrum policies for the 21st century, we're going to face a spectrum crunch that will stifle American innovation, economic growth, and job creation."

Why do I like it:

I like this article because it illustrates the timing of the debate of net-neutrality, particularly in light of the new power shift in Congress.

Do Immigrants Harm Societies?

The immigrants do not harm societies.  They benefit them by creating jobs, demands for products, and mobilize economic activities.  But the critics of the immigrants may disagree.  In their views, immigrants replace jobs for the locals, hence creating unemployment and put stress on the economy.  Anti-immigrants also believe that immigrants increase crime rates, lower standard of living, and drive down the housing value.

To dispel these claims against the immigrants, their contribution to societies must be examined empirically and with evidenced-based case studies.  The immigrants may create a short-term unemployment, but in the long-run they create employment by driving up the demands for products they buy from their earnings; they take jobs that are considered menial for the locals, hence creating management positions to manage the general labor force.  So, instead of driving down the wages, as the critics for the immigrants would argue, they actually create competitive wages.

The immigrants create vibrant communities.  They create a positively competitive environment where locals strive to excel socially and economically.

To read more about the impacts of immigrants on communities, please click on the link below.  Giovanni Peri at the University of California, Davis conducted a thorough and evidence-based study to dispel the myths we have about the immigrants.

http://www.migrationpolicy.org/pubs/Peri-June2010.pdf

Courtesy: Migration Policy Institute

If I Rise: a brilliant and inspirational theme song from 127 Hours

Danny Boyle's 127 Hours is an inspirational movie based on true events. But it is inspirational in a way that one can be inspired to admire his/her everyday surroundings, people he/she loves, things he/she does. And all these do not have to be after effects of a particular moment or a momentary lapse of reasons. We need to be who we are every moment in our lives; love the ones we do unconditionally.

127 Hours is not a movie about a loss. It's about gaining every bit of who we are when we confront the precipice of no return. It's a movie that tells us not to fear the precipice but to confront it. It's a movie about who we love; who we forget to love; how we forget to love; when we forget to love. And then somehow finding an absolution. This movie tells us this much.

The song "If I rise" is a fitting tribute to a brilliant movie and an unforgettable cast. Here's the beautiful song by Dido -- If I rise.

Creative Destruction: a theory at work

Joseph Schumpeter, the famed Austrian economist, in discussing capitalism’s market power illustrated the consequences of such power – “creative destruction” of the smaller firms by the larger ones.  This phenomenon occurs due to the economy of scale, meaning larger firms leverage the power and innovation of technology, human resources, and other forces to establish cost-efficient production operations.  In doing that, larger firms are able to reduce their marginal costs below the prices, thus setting up a direct or indirect monopoly in the market.   Unable to compete, smaller firms are eventually forced to leave the market.

Carvajal and Castle (2009) article in The New York Times illustrates such a remarkable case.  Please follow the link below to read the full story.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/06/business/global/06smithfield.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all

Courtesy: The New York Times

Mac Air: a new air apparent

Someone with a last name Jordon ruled the air.  And a distinct image of him soaring through the air has become a worldwide logo, know as Air Jordon.  His days of flying through the air have long gone.  His logo still lives on.  But there’s a new kid in town now – another air apparent possibly, Mac Air.  It’s a new 11-inch razor thin mac notebook creating a lot of buzz this Holiday season.

Here’s a review of the new Mac Air from The Washington Post.

Courtesy: The Washington Post

3D Technology: it's here!

The electronic stores like Best Buy have got a new facelift.  Its walls now adorn with a new generation of TV -- 3D TV.  The viewing cubicles now have oversized 3D TVs instead of just 720p or1080p TVs.  The 3D TVs are much slimmer and more powerful with some more than 1 to 3 million contrast ratios, a resolution that offers ultra-clear images.  3D TV requiress specialized requirements like 3D glasses and compatible movies and programming.  While it is still in its infancy, the 3D TVs are catching on fast and who knows what the personal entertainment would look like by next Christmas.

Here's a video from The Washington Post about 3D technology.

 http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2010/08/16/VI2010081603065.html

Source: The Washington Post

The Theory of Social Business: to be (governed) or not to be (governed)

Here’re some thoughts on social business that Dr. Yunus is promoting in Bangladesh.  On his recent visit in Germany, he argued against government involvement in social business to prevent misuse of, say, government tax cuts by individuals or groups.  I believe he's invoking Ronald Coase's theory, only without the government involvement.   According to Coase, in a perfect world, firms work together to resolve transactions cost issues to the point where the transaction cost would be zero.  In reality, he also argues, transaction costs are not always zero.  Therefore, government intervention must be needed to resolve the transaction cost dispute when firms alone cannot resolve it.   

In Bangladesh, Grameen Bank’s success is largely augmented because GB is the only sustainable model.  In other words, there is hardly any competition.  But also it invokes the idea of monopoly, an economic inefficiency.  But long-standing corruption and lack of reform policies from government enabled GB to create such an impact on micro-lending business.  At the same time, GB has built an enormous empire in Bangladesh by establishing a number of other small- and social-business subsidiaries, like Grameen Knitwear and Grameen Fisheries.

But massive corruption in South Asia may bring opposing thoughts to the theory of Dr. Yunus’ social business model without government intervention.  For example, in light of the recent corruptions in its micro-lending sector in India, it could be argued that government actions could mitigate corruption.  It does not have to be just tax incentives.

Dr. Yunus has a strong pro-entrprenuership stance without government invention.  For countries like Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan government intervention or lack thereof is a double-edged sword.

The link to Dr. Yunus' comments on social business follows:

http://muhammadyunus.org/Yunus-Centre-Highlights/prof-yunus-against-govts-in-social-business/

Technology As We See IT

This week's technology snippets focus on the following topics:

Snippet # 1
The Washington Post, November 1, 2010

Topic:
Net-neutrality

Link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/29/AR2010102905957.html


Description:
With a looming power shift in Congress, the debate over net-neutrality is heating up.  No one knows what the outcome of the election will be.  But every one is concerned about slow economy, joblessness, and housing woe.  Once again, people seek change to recover from the sluggish state of the economy. 

Reshuffling decades old telecommunication law poses a risk, both politically and economically.  It’s hard to predict what impact the net-neutrality will have on economy.  Taking away a free-market model in favor of a state-controlled policy does not seem logical because it removes competition. 
On the other hand, government accountability to control malpractices by the large organizations could enhance public trust and equal distribution of technology.
Either way, net-neutrality is a two-edged sword, not easy to handle but it must be disarmed from the grip of political quagmire and corporate power.  

Why do I like it:
I like it because it raises an issue from the business point of view which raises questions on the feasibility of net-neutrality.

Snippet # 2
CNN, November 2, 2010

Topic:
Social networking

Link:
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/social.media/11/02/facebook.breakups/index.html?hpt=T2

Description:
The privacy is out the door – sounds like a cliché.  But this CNN report shows that the social networking sites like Facebook now use data based on their social traffic site to predict the break-up pattern.  Who knows what else they know.  But we cannot just blame Facebook.  We need to be vigilant about sharing and using personal data on the web.  Instead of posting actual date of birth why not making up one.  But the point of this article is that social networking sites now have incredible amount of personal information stored at their disposal.  And they will manipulate these data to their advantage. 

Why do I like it:
I like this article because it shows how nonchalant users can be about using personal information on the web.

Snippet # 3
The Washington Post, November 2, 2010

Topic:
Food and energy

Link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2010/11/01/ST2010110106534.html?sid=ST2010110106534

Description:
The Buddhist philosophy preaches empowerment of human lives and nature.  This article, based on a new trend in China, focuses on the Buddhist philosophy in restoring balance of nature and nurture.  A group of young and affluent professionals are leaving their comfortable jobs for farming to harvest organic food.   Concerned about the quality of food, these Chinese professionals are poised to grow food naturally, free of pesticides and other artificial chemicals.  This trend is a stark contrast in a nation where industrialization and manufacturing are rampant in every conceivable city.  Farming is now considered a taboo.  

Why do I like it:
I like this article because of the novel intentions adopted by the affluent and young generation in China to restore nature’s balance by harvesting organic food.

I Dare You: a Girl Effect PSA

Source: YouTube & Girl Effect

I Am Powerful: a CARE PSA

Source: YouTube & CARE

Empowering The Poor in Bangladesh: story of BRAC

Source: YouTube

Climate Change: let's do something about it

Source: YouTube & http://www.silverspace3d.com/

Sacrificing Urban Life To Grow Food Organically

The Buddhist philosophy preaches empowerment of human lives and nature.  The article (see link below), based on a new trend in China, focuses on the Buddhist philosophy in restoring balance between nature and nurture.  A group of young and affluent professionals are leaving their comfortable jobs for farming to harvest organic food.   Concerned about the quality of food, these Chinese professionals are poised to grow food naturally, free of pesticides and other artificial chemicals.  This trend is a stark contrast in a nation where industrialization and manufacturing are rampant in every conceivable city.  Farming is considered a taboo in China.  

At a time when food industries control what and how we eat, the trend in China is encouraging for the organic food market.  The creativity of workers gave away to the assembly line and mass production.  But in the wake of climate shift woes the idea of harvesting food organically and free from pesticides is no longer a boutique idea (if it ever was).  It has become a necessity.  To paraphrase a Buddhist principle, it's time to balance the nature between the haves and have-nots. 

Please click on the link below to read the story which appeared in The Washington Post.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/01/AR2010110106322.html

Link source: The Washington Post
    

Who Decides What We Eat: a look at our food industry

In the movie “Food, Inc.” Michael Pollan, the author of “Fast Food Nation” and “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” said in a very matter-of-factly fashion that the nation’s food industry is a “world deliberately hidden from us.” His statement hit the very core of the business ethics of our food industry. The powerful food industry much like the auto industry depends on a system that relies on controlling the variables like supply chain and wage of their business operations to make profits in billions at the expense of the consumers.  

Control is key to mass production. Ford immortalized the concept. The food industry mastered it. In the process, we see that the movie distinguished between a farm and factory. Farms have become factories of mass production. Fifty years ago the waitresses on roller blades served hamburgers. No more. Human creativity gives away to the assembly line production, reducing creativity to a single, monotonous, and repetitive work. The purpose is to cut cost, reduce labor, and employ less-skilled workers.

Today, McDonald’s Corporation is the largest buyer of beef, pork, and potato in the U.S. McDonald’s has become a pop culture and an identity. In the outside world, McDonald’s conjures up images of America.

Carole Morison, a chicken farmer in “Food, Inc.,” said bluntly that the chicken farmers are “like being slave to the company.” The company implies to one of the four biggest meat producing companies that control 80% of the meat supplies.  The economic theory of 80-20 rule rages on.

Unintended consequences of the business practices of these corporations are enormous. On one hand, undocumented workers pay the ultimate price of being caught, detained, and deported. On the other, disease like e-coli costs human life. Both consequences extend beyond the domestic policy arena. U.S. Immigration policy lack mechanisms to control and legalize undocumented workers who enter the U.S. illegally and those who overstay. The corporations exploit the cheap labor of the undocumented workers.

The organic farmer Joel Salatin (Food, Inc.) summed up the cheap food we pay at the fast-food restaurants. He described the cheap food as “mystic of cheap food.” The unintended cost of poor health and degradation of environment are simply too high. He laments that the food industry lost its “accountability” and “integrity.” And he urges that the “controlling mentality” of these large corporations must end.

Net-neutrality: the debate heats up on the eve of election

With a looming power shift in Congress, the debate over net-neutrality is heating up. No one knows what the outcome of the election will be. But every one is concerned about slow economy, joblessness, and housing woe. Once again, people seek change to recover from the sluggish state of the economy.

Reshuffling decades old telecommunication law poses a risk, both politically and economically. It’s hard to predict what impact the net-neutrality will have on economy. Taking away a free-market model in favor of a state-controlled policy does not seem logical because it removes competition. On the other hand, government accountability to control malpractices by the large organizations could enhance public trust and equal distribution of technology.

Either way, net-neutrality is a two-edged sword, not easy to handle but it must be disarmed from the grip of political quagmire and corporate power.

Please follow the link below to read an article written by Karen Kerrigan of The Washington Post on this debate.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/29/AR2010102905957.html

Source: The Washington Post

Sir David Attenborough: The Truth About Climate Change

Stewart And Colby Rally Bring Memories of December 2008

Thousands show up at The Mall on a nippy Saturday to attend the Stewart/Colbert rally to mark an eventful weekend, with Marine Marathon looming large the next day, in the DC Metro area.  Colorful banners like "Legalize Pot," "Sanity not Tea" and dashing Halloween costumes adored neighborhoods from Chinatown to Georgetown to Foggy Bottom.  Fun-filled energy, excitement, and exuberance consumed the nation's Capital.  Suddenly, it seemed like late December 2008 when a similar excitement and energy of change reverberated through the city. 

Marine Corps Marathon and Halloween helped conjure up the energy and excitement.  I just wish they never go away.

To read more on the rally, please click on the link below:

http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/10/30/restore.sanity.rally.people/

Link source: CNN

The Wrath Of A Tsunami In Indonesia

The world cheered for the Chilean miners. But now it consumes in grief over the tragedy of a tsunami in Indonesia. Life's ups and downs continue.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39890501/displaymode/1247?beginSlide=1

Source: MSNBC

Is The World Really Flat?: my own argument

The arguments against the flat world do not diminish the impact of the flat world metaphor on societies.  In fact these arguments reinforce the idea.  Friedman is absolutely on target when he says that today’s globalization is all “about the emergence of completely new social, political, and business models."  These new social orders and how to tackle them are evident in Ghemawat’s 2007 book, Redefining Global Strategy.  The complex transnational economic, social, and political structures must be examined on the basis of value-added components to become globally competitive.  These components include, “adding volume, decreasing costs, differentiating, improving industry attractiveness, normalizing risks, and generating and deploying knowledge."

Ghemawat further mentions four strategies to deal with the uncertainties in today’s increasingly globalized environment.  He calls them “AAA strategies,” which include adaptation, aggregation, and arbitrage.  These strategies, Ghemawat argues, would provide a tactical platform for dealing with the differences between the countries.

In The Flat World, Friedman highlights the evolution of globalization.  Today, he argues, globalization 3.0, the emphasis on individuals, defines the “power of individuals to collaborate and compete globally."  This phenomenon is not only enabling individuals to connect with each other globally, but it is also “empowering” them.  Despande in his 2005 lecture, argues for the empowerment of individuals.  According to him, as a result of increasing knowledge- and information-sharing among individuals, individuals are becoming the constant target of business organizations.  The organizations are putting customer first, ahead of the shareholders, to achieve their business goals. 

Austere economic factors like demand and supply, cost and benefit, transaction cost must be weighed in to determine run businesses.  Leamer’s 2006 argument against the flat world stems from the accountability of these factors.  Friedman, on the other hand, focuses on various human factors such as strong leaders and educators and other intangible factors like adaptation and understanding to explain the flat world metaphor.