Citizen Tools

Kathy Sierra examines how to create passionate citizens by inviting people to understand the dynamics of passion. Drawing on an interest in the brain and artificial intelligence, developed during her days as a game developer (Virgin, Amblin', MGM), Sierra explains what is necessary to instill and excite passion. From the perspective of an engineer she a […]

Data transparency is not enough; danah boyd powerfully argues that the character of data depends on its interpretation and states her case for data literacy. If people are ignorant about how data is generated, selected and interpreted, power accrues to those who can 'spin' the data to support their opinions and biases. Using the example of publicly […]

At TEDxChange, Melinda Gates makes a provocative case for nonprofits taking a cue from corporations such as Coca-Cola, whose plugged-in, global network of marketers and distributors ensures that every remote village wants -- and can get -- a Coke. Why shouldn't this work for condoms, sanitation, vaccinations too? […]

Five Ways to Use History Well […]

Deviant Globalization […]

Politicians are strange creatures, says politician Omar Ahmad. And the best way to engage them on your pet issue is a monthly handwritten letter. Ahmad shows why old-fashioned correspondence is more effective than email, phone or even writing a check -- and shares the four simple steps to writing a letter that works. […]

Six Easy Steps to Avert the Collapse of Civilization […]