Internet

In the era of the 24-hour news cycle, cable TV, talk radio and blogs often use sensational and controversial tactics in the fierce battle for audiences. Such widespread incivility in public discourse is seen by some as potentially damaging American democracy — from eroding trust in government to decreasing voter turnout — but research has produced mixed findings.

Broadband access is widely regarded as a critical driver of economic growth and a potentially transformative force in education, government services, public safety and health care. Nevertheless, the United States lags other developed nations in broadband Internet access, particularly in rural areas.

Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last 30 years, and its causes appear to be a complex mix of genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Many assume that the consumption patterns and marketing relating to sugary drinks —  a well-known target in recent years for those campaigning to end childhood obesity — might have changed because of sustained scrutiny.

As Internet search engines have become increasingly integrated into the way people locate, use and define information, concerns have been voiced over the impact this digital “crutch” may have on the lucidity and richness of human thought. Meanwhile, techno-enthusiasts claim that the mind is enhanced by such technology. Up to the present, however, little research has been done on the actual effects of such tools on human cognition.

Millions of dollars of instructional videos for infants have been sold to hopeful parents in the past decade, many promising accelerated learning. While children may enjoy watching such products, are there any real educational benefits, or are they just “electronic babysitters”?