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Human Behavior

7 Reasons Why Getting Out in the Sunshine Can Help You Be More Mindful – One Green Planet

Somewhere along the line sunshine got a bad reputation. It received all the blame for skin cancer when, in reality, human behavior has been a huge part of the issue. There are hours upon hours of tanning. Theres a depleted ozone layer allowing more UVB radiation to reach the earths surface. There are also strange things like long daily car commutes on the LA freeway with the sun blazing through the windscreen. Even sunscreens have been called into question.

But, getting out in the sunshine can be a great thing. The sun can have a positive impact on both our mental and physical wellbeing. In fact, using the sun mindfully, as a boon to our health, is something that can truly improve our lives on a daily level. As we engage our minds in a positive act, i.e. getting some sun and fresh air, our overall welfare gives us positive feedback. We are happier, healthier and full of sunshine.

Source: Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock

Sunlight triggers the brain to release serotonin. Serotonin is the bodys way of keeping us in a good mood and easy-peasy, a hormone that makes us happy. To further point, a lack of sunlight equates to a decrease in serotonin, which is why some people get seasonal depression in the wintertime: not enough sun. If something is proven to make us happy and (as youll soon see) healthy, wouldnt we want to pay it some mind?

Vitamin D is sometimes referred to as the sunshine vitamin, and thats because when our skin is exposed to sunlight it creates vitamin D. This very important vitamin helps to transport calcium to our bones and teeth and, thus, is instrumental in building strong bones. Just 10-15 minutes of raw (no sunscreen) sunshine on our skin a day is enough to provide our daily recommended amount of vitamin D. Strong bones means you have a sturdy foundation from whence to develop mental stability.

Source: Vasin Lee/Shutterstock

As a counter to serotonin, getting daily sunshine, particularly at dusk, stimulates the brain to produce melatonin, the hormone that helps us sleep. Melatonin is a signal to the body that its now nighttime, hence dusk, so it can start to shut down and relax. In this way, melatonin is in tune with our bodies circadian rhythms. Quality rest is integral to a healthy mind and body.

In addition to making bones strong, vitamin D is a vital component to nearly every cell in the human body. With healthy cells that regenerate readily, our immune systems run better. Studies have even shown that vitamin D can help to fight cancer, decrease the risk of getting the flu andobviouslyprotect against bone diseases like osteoporosis. It also reduces blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart attack and strokes. Imagine for a moment the power gained for those moments in the sun.

Sunshine is great for relieving pain, particularly joint pain. In the simplest terms, the warmth and soothing from the sun provides a sort of topical (possibly tropical) therapy. Then, of course, the vitamin D allows the body to absorb more calcium and it lowers blood pressure. The calcium helps with bone troubles, and the reduced blood pressure can help with inflammation. Less pain on your brain means more time for your mind.

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To get a sufficient amount of sun, we only need about 15 minutes a day. That makes for a great moment in which to practice mindfulness. Not only is the physical body, both internally and externally benefitting from it, but 15 minutes a day provides an ideal amount of time for mindful meditation. For that matter, a few moments of checking in with yourself while the sun kisses your skin sounds like a great thing to do.

Aside from water, the sun is the life force of this planet. The food we grow needs the sun. The trees and plants the provide oxygenate the planet need the sun to grow. The water cycle needs the sun to evaporate water back into the atmosphere, in essence cleaning it. The animal kingdom, that whole circle of life thing, is completely reliant on the sun, from the phytoplankton eaten by krill thats then eaten by blue whales and everything in between. Taking a moment each day to appreciate the power of sun and the privilege we have in relying on it, well, thats just a minefield of mindful.

Whether its a walk in the park, maybe its a quick breath on the balcony at the end of the day, or it could be coffee on the patio at sunrise, whatever form it may take, the sunshine can help you be more mindful, and mindfulness in and of itself is worth the effort. Get the sun involved and the benefits expound from there.

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Human Behavior

The COVID-19 aftermath: learn from the future, not the past – Retail Insight Network

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Lots has now been written about the changes weve seen in the consumer goods markets during the worlds coronavirus lockdowns. Whether its pubs delivering pints in boxes, McDonalds amassing hours long drive-thru queues, or the meal deal falling out of vogue. But after roughly three months of lockdown across much of the western world, perhaps its time to look towards the future; which trends will emerge victorious post-lockdown?

When trying to figure out which consumer trends we will see post-lockdown, it is not as simple as trying to identify which current trends will stick. Post-lockdown consumer habits will likely constitute an amalgamation of the habits, anxieties, loves, and fears that people collected throughout this process; human behavior and its relationship to the economy does not always follow rational logic just think back to the 2008 financial crisis.

It was often stated in the UK press that Britain was three weeks behind Italy in being hit by the virus. Italy, in turn, was about four weeks behind China, which has now emerged from lockdown. The situation in Italy was indeed the UKs future, and sure enough the people of Britain experienced a near-total lockdown for weeks on end, just as the Italians had before them. Using this logic of countries being on a sort of fixed trajectory, we can now look to China for indications of what the future might hold for global coronavirus hotspots, Europe and the Americas.

Online shopping will likely have a lasting effect post-lockdown, despite it no longer being as necessary. In China, retail live-streaming has taken off, with one apple farmer in Shaanxi amassing over 200,000 shoppers to his live-stream in which he enthusiastically proclaimed his apples to be juicy, crispy, and sweet. He sold 100 tons of apples as a result. Indeed, Chinas Ministry of Commerce stated there were more than four million such streams in the first quarter of 2020.

This trend of bringing the social side of shopping online will likely be pursued by businesses in the west too. With high-streets and malls already in decline, and social media increasingly replacing face-to-face socializing, the day out shopping with friends may only survive online.

The rise of subscription delivery services and their ability to rapidly tailor their products to the individual consumer will likely have a lasting legacy post-COVID. If people have gotten more used to having their needs met so meticulously, the old one-size-fits-all format may lose its appeal.

The desire to perfect ones home into the ultimate comfort-castle has seen increased sales in high-quality bedding, heated towel racks, and home entertainment tech. Those who have indulged in this heightened state of coziness may not want to return to their pre-lockdown relative discomfort.

What these trends tell us is that the future is heading into an increasingly tailored existence. Whilst previous convenience trends such as on-the-go reigned supreme during the 2010s, consumers are now adapting to a more home-centric lifestyle, and brands must adapt their offerings to better suit these needs.

GlobalData is this websites parent business intelligence company.

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The COVID-19 aftermath: learn from the future, not the past - Retail Insight Network

Human Behavior

Anxious people tend to really love their cats – Futurity: Research News

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The more neurotic and anxious cat owners are, the more trust and affection they have for their cat, researchers say.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have many people feeling anxious. But if you happen to own a cat, they may be benefiting from your anxiety.

Our study finds that anxiousness may be a positive trait to have because it is associated with trust and affection for a cat, coauthor Mikel Delgado, a postdoctoral researcher at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California, Davis.

a tendency toward negative emotions will affect any relationship, including a relationship with a cat.

Delgado and coauthor Gretchen Reevy, a psychologist with California State University, East Bay, conducted an online, anonymous survey of 1,239 cat owners. Of the participants, 87% were female. The survey asked questions about how worthy people felt of their cats love, how available and trustworthy they felt their cat was, and their general feelings of affection toward their cat.

While higher scores on neuroticism and anxiety could benefit a relationship with ones cat, the study shows that higher scores on most negative emotions, especially depression, were related to feeling less worthy of their cats love. Previous studies have found similar results in romantic relationships and friendships.

If you are prone to depression, youre seeing everything through that lens, Delgado says. This shows that a tendency toward negative emotions will affect any relationship, including a relationship with a cat.

In contrast, the way in which negative emotions influenced feelings of trust in a relationship depended on whether the relationship was with a human or cat. In human relationships, depression decreased the feeling that a friend or partner was trustworthy.

Anger decreased the feeling that a cat was trustworthy, and anxiety increased the feeling.

Delgado says she embarked on the study to understand what can help people have a better bond with their pet. A lot of that can be influenced by human behavior.

While were sheltering at home during coronavirus, our cats may be our sole companions. Theyre important to our lives, she says. But problems with the human-cat relationship put cats at risk for ending up in animal shelters.

Reevy says its important to understand that our personalities can affect how we bond with our pets.

Cats can be wonderful companions and sources of comfort, and it looks like a persons personality affects their tendency to appreciate, enjoy, and hopefully benefit emotionally from a relationship with a cat, Reevy says.

The authors are currently comparing peoples romantic relationships with their relationships with their cat. People interested in participating in the study can click here to learn more.

The study appears in the journal Anthrozos. Support for the research came from Maddies Fund.

Source: UC Davis

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Anxious people tend to really love their cats - Futurity: Research News

Human Behavior

Dr John Demartini On Why Longevity Starts In The Home – Longevity LIVE

A family that has a strong orientation to health and longevity will be more fulfilled, more resilient and adaptable to ever-changing environments, and generally more appreciative of one anothers unique differences. Of course, this is related to ingesting adequate nutrients, participating in moderate exercise and hygiene, and prioritizing fulfilling, meaningful daily actions.

But it also requires that each member of the family becomes grounded with more realistic expectations of each of the other members. They also need to understand how to effectively and respectfully communicate according to the highest values of each.

While some children may revolt against the unhealthy behaviors their parents display and embrace complementary opposite behaviors, theyre most likely to follow in their parents footsteps.

Sadly, we notice the cost of these behaviors only once its almost too late. This is why parents must teach through exemplification. When parents value their wellness and longevity, and exemplify health-conscious routines, other family members are likely to follow suit over time. Not because of autocratic demands, but as a result of wisely-followed routines. In contrast, parents who are not aware of their unhealthy routines often pay a price as time marches on, through economic and other burdens. As with any other issue, if parents do not empower, theyre likely to become disempowered.

It starts with prioritizing your daily actions. What you should be doing is filling your days with high-priority actions that inspire you and are wellness-orientated. If you dont, others will fill your days with low-priority distractions that undermine the familys overall wellness quotient.

Breaking down daily actions into simple, reasonable and practical routines is key in this regard. For instance, schedule at least 15 minutes of movement (stretching, exercise or walking) into your day every day. Organize simple meals, incorporating natural, healthy whole ingredients that are ready to eat without complex preparation. Avoid refined food where possible.

Choose filtered water or vegetable juice over energy drinks. And remember that mind food is just as important for your body as fuel; read meaningful, purposeful books that accelerate achievement.

The complexities of modern life can make longevity a difficult goal. Especially if youre juggling the needs of children of many ages. However, you may find it helps to create daily checklists that prioritize wise actions. These may relate to dietary issues, nutritional supplements, exercise, hygiene, and psychosocial behaviors. In every case, youll find those daily routines developing into habits. And, as always, exemplification is the greatest teacher. Click on this link to find out which health foods are secretly bad for you.

Dr John Demartini is a human behavior specialist, educator, international best-selling author and founder of the Demartini Institute. Visit Dr Demartiniswebsitefor more information.

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Dr John Demartini On Why Longevity Starts In The Home - Longevity LIVE

Human Behavior

Autonomous Vehicle Market Trends, Growth, Size, Analysis and Forecast by 2026 – 3rd Watch News

Premium market insights delivers well-researched industry-wide information on the Autonomous Vehicle market. It studies the markets essential aspects such as top participants, expansion strategies, business models, and other market features to gain improved market insights. Additionally, it focuses on the latest advancements in the sector and technological development, executive tools, and tactics that can enhance the performance of the sectors.

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Scope of the Report

An autonomous vehicle is a robotic vehicle that is designed to travel between destinations without a human operator. They combine sensors and software to control, navigate, and drive the vehicle. Autonomous vehicle uses LiDAR, and RADAR sensors for its operation. Most self-driving systems create and maintain an internal map of their surroundings, based on these sensors. The factors such as mobility as a service, reduction in accidents caused due to drivers error and reduction of hazardous gas carbon dioxide) by using driverless cars, stringent government regulations regarding safety supplement the growth of the market. However, operation issues in certain types of environment, difficulties in identifying human behavior, and lack of abilities to perform in uncertain situations hamper this stated growth. Furthermore, increase in penetration of smart cars, and favorable government regulation are expected to present numerous opportunities for market expansion.

The market is segmented into level of automation, component, application, and region. Based on level of automation, it is categorized into level 3, level 4, and level 5. Based on component, it is segmented into hardware, software, and service. The application segment is divided into civil, robo taxi, ride hail, ride share, self-driving truck, and self-driving bus. Based on region, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America and Middle East (LAMEA).

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The report presents information related to key drivers, restraints, and opportunities with a detailed impact analysis.

The current market is quantitatively analyzed from 2019 to 2026 to highlight the financial competency of the market.

Porters five forces analysis illustrates the potency of the buyers and suppliers.

KEY MARKET SEGMENTS

By Level of Automation

Level 3

Level 4

Level 5

By Component

Hardware

Software

Services

By Application

Civil

Robo taxi

Ride hail

Ride share

Self-driving truck

Self-driving bus.

Interested in purchasing this Report? Click here @ https://www.premiummarketinsights.com/inquiry/AMR00013867

Geographically, this report focuses on product sales, value, market share, and growth opportunity in key regions such as United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and India.

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Premiummarketinsights.comis a one stop shop of market research reports and solutions to various companies across the globe. We help our clients in their decision support system by helping them choose most relevant and cost effective research reports and solutions from various publishers. We provide best in class customer service and our customer support team is always available to help you on your research queries.

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Human Behavior

The Next Wave of Violence – National Review

(Jose Luis Gonzalez/Reuters)

On the menu today: Our biggest cities have seen a lot of shootings, stabbings, and violence in the past weeks, a crime surge that appears to be unrelated to the ongoing protests; a look at what the unexpected dramatic reduction in summer jobs means for Americas youth; and the NR crew chews over the surprising and in many eyes, frustrating Supreme Court decision inBostock v. Clayton County.

The Non-Protest-Related Wave of Violence That Is Plaguing Our Cities

The shooting at a protest in Albuquerque, N.M.,between rival groups disagreeing about the removal of a statue of Juan de Oate, the conquistador of New Mexico, is a big deal, and is getting considerable attention this morning. But you probably wont hear as much about the ongoing wave of shooting and violence that is plaguing many American cities as they gradually reopen from lockdowns and quarantines, violence that appears to be quite separate from looting, arson, or other crimes connected to the protests against police brutality.

New York City: Over the month until June 7 including the crucial Memorial Day weekend New Yorks murder rate more than doubled, to 42 murders, from 18 the year before a jolt of 133 percent.Shooting victims, including wounded, are up 45 percent. Stabbings are up, too.

Minneapolis, Minn.: Investigators say a fight broke out inside the 200 Club on West Broadway Avenue, also known as the Broadway Pub & Grille, at about 2 a.m. It then spilled into the street, with several people pulling out guns and firing at each other. Six people went to the hospital early Sunday morning. One of them, a man in his 20s, died Monday.

Chicago, Ill.: While Chicago was roiled by another day of protests and looting in the wake of George Floyds murder, 18 people were killed Sunday, May 31, making it the single most violent day in Chicago in six decades, according to the University of Chicago Crime Lab. The labs data doesnt go back further than 1961. That was a few weeks ago; this past weekend, two men were killed and 31 other people were injured in shootings across Chicago over the weekend.

Cleveland, Ohio: The Cleveland Division of Police confirmed seven shootings injured nine people and killed one man within 10 hours.

Saint Louis, Mo.: Seven people were shot two of them fatally in the City of St. Louis within a 6-hour span on Monday. The shootings come after a violent weekend in the city where 21 people were shot from Friday to Sunday. Six of those people were fatally shot.

South Bend, Ind.: Police are asking for your help after at least 5 people were shot and over 300 shots were fired following a violent weekend in South Bend. Patrol Division Chief Eric Crittendon say it is one of the most shots he has ever seen in one weekend since joining the South Bend Police Department nearly 30 years ago.

Ocean City, Md.: Thus far this month, the incidents have been decidedly more frequent and more violent involving larger groups of individuals intent on disturbing the peace. In the span of about a week beginning last Sunday, there have been at least two stabbings and several major altercations on the Boardwalk including a major fight last Tuesday that resulted in the severe beating of a young man.

New Orleans, La.: Fifteen reported shootings have injured 17 people and killed five since Friday.

Baltimore, Md.: In the first incident in Fells Point, five people were shot on Broadway early Saturday morning . . . The second incident happened around 3 a.m. Sunday in the 2300 block of Winchester Street in west Baltimore. Officers were responding to multiple complaints about a large party in a parking lot. As people were leaving, a Range Rover barreled into the lot, police said. Minutes later, the driver, 30-year-old Christopher Earl from Windsor Mill, shot an officer during a struggle.

Philadelphia, Pa.: Two people were slain, five others were shot, and four were stabbed from Friday through Sunday in Philadelphia. The deadly violence pushed the citys number of homicide victims this year to 182, an increase of 35 victims, or 24 percent, compared with this time last year, according to the Philadelphia Police Department.

Pittsburgh, Pa.: Police are investigating after three people were injured from a shooting during a backyard party in Pittsburghs Manchester neighborhood. According to investigators, there about 20 gunshots while a backyard party was happening in the area. Its unclear how many people were there at the time. Three people, including a woman and a girl, were hospitalized after being grazed by bullets. A third victim walked into Allegheny General Hospital after also being struck.

San Antonio, Texas: No arrests have been made three days after a shooting at a North Side bar that injured eight people, San Antonio police said Monday. Police are still searching for the man who allegedly opened fire in the parking lot of REBAR, a bar in the 8000 block of Broadway, around 11:30 p.m. Friday. Five women and three men, ages 23 to 41, were shot and hospitalized but are expected to survive, police said over the weekend.

Houston, Texas: Children ran for their lives and ducked for cover under vehicles to avoid being hit by gunfire that broke out at a block party in north Houston. Police say at least one person was shot to death. The shooting happened off Chapman Street around 9 p.m. Sunday. There were 200-300 people partying in the street when police say three people pulled out guns and started shooting. One man was shot and killed.

Union County, S.C.: A large block party turned violent when attendees started shooting at one another, Union County Sheriff David Taylor said. Seven people were shot and 2 of them died. The coroner identified the victims as Jabbrie Brandon, 17, of Union, and Curtis Lamont Bomar, 21, of Spartanburg.

These shootings do not appear to be tied to the protests. Some of these shootings occurred at bars (Minneapolis, San Antonio) and parties (Houston, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, and Union County, S.C.), and may well be the participants first large gatherings since the lockdowns and quarantines. (Excessive alcohol consumption and firearms is not a good combination.)

How likely is it that this surge of violence has something to do with the 13.3 percent unemployment rate; the closure of all schools in the country since March; the cancelation of summer jobs programs;the closure of basketball courts, gyms, and many other public recreation locations; the lack of almost all athletic events; the lack of movies in movie theaters; and the widespread disruption to normal human behavior since March?

How many of the participants in this almost-entirely nocturnal violence have to get up and go to work in the morning on Monday?

What Are Young People Supposed to Do Without Those First Summer Jobs?

This summer in the United States, there are no major or minor league ballgames, no hot dog vendors walking up and down the aisles of the stadiums. No one is working the soda machine at the concession stand or refilling the ketchup and mustard dispensers. We have few movie theaters with fewer teenagers working the concession stand or selling tickets. We have fewer restaurants, hiring fewer waiters and waitresses and busboys and hostesses. Closed pools have no need for lifeguards. Retail stores are slow to rehire. Many companies canceled their planned summer internships.

Our response to the coronavirus yanked away what was usually a vital first step in young peoples preparation for adulthood:

Riverside Golf Club in Riverside, Ill., normally hires nearly 140 teenaged caddies with roughly 70 working on any given day, said Joe Green, the clubs caddie master. Courses are open but local laws dont permit caddies to work this summer.

Mr. Green said many of his summer caddies can make between $5,000 and $6,000.

I dont see how were going to bring them back safe this year, he said. To me, its the best job these kids can have. It teaches discipline, social skills, networking. Its a great learning experience.

Summer jobs are not glamorous and usually dont pay all that well, but for a lot of people, theyre a key first step on the path of their careers. Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz wrote in From the Ground Up, the value of early work experiences can exceed the amount of a paycheck. Work done well building a house, helping a customer find the perfect new shoes, earning a promotion by serving cups of coffee imbues us with a sense of self-worth as well as a sense of purpose. With dignity. And if youre a lost young person with little proof of your potential, work can provide a window into yourself.

ADDENDA: Im no legal scholar, but Michael Brendan Dougherty, Alexandra DeSanctis, Ilya Shapiro, and the Editors all see problems in the Supreme Court decision Bostock v. Clayton County. The editors conclude, The law is now read to mean something different in 2020 from what even the most liberal Justices would have said in 1964. Congress for years has been debating bills to amend the statute to cover these topics; the Court just did its work for it, and without any of the compromises or conscience protections that legislators typically debate.

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The Next Wave of Violence - National Review

Human Behavior

What moves people? Associate Professor Jinhua Zhao, who will direct the new MIT Mobility Initiative, brings – MIT News

Its easy to think of urban mobility strictly in terms of infrastructure: Does an area have the right rail lines, bus lanes, or bike paths? How much parking is available? How well might autonomous vehicles work? MIT Associate Professor Jinhua Zhao views matters a bit differently, however.

To understand urban movement, Zhao believes, we also need to understand people. How does everyone choose to use transport? Why do they move around, and when? How does their self-image influence their choices?

The main part of my own thinking is the recognition that transportation systems are half physical infrastructure, and half human beings, Zhao says.

Now, after two decades as a student and professor at MIT, he has built up an impressive body of research flowing from this approach. A bit like the best mobility systems, Zhaos work is multimodal. He divides his scholarship into three main themes. The first covers the behavioral foundations of urban mobility: the attitudinal and emotional aspects of transportation, such as the pride people take in vehicle ownership, the experience of time spent in transit, and the decision making that results in large-scale mobility patterns within urban regions.

Zhaos second area of scholarship applies these kinds of insights to design work, exploring how to structure mobility systems with behavioral concepts in mind. What are peoples risk preferences concerning autonomous vehicles? Will people use them in concert with existing transit? How do peoples individual characteristics affect their willingness to take ride-sharing opportunities?

Zhaos third theme is policy-oriented: Do mobility systems provide access and fairness? Are they met with acceptance? Here Zhaos work ranges across countries, including China, Singapore, the U.K., and the U.S., examining topics like access to rail, compliance with laws, and the public perception of transportation systems.

Within these themes, a tour of Zhaos research reveals specific results across a wide swath of transportation issues. He has studied how multimodal smartcards affect passenger behavior (they distinctly help commuters); examined the effects of off-peak discounts on subway ridership (they reduce crowding); quantified car pride, the sense in which car ownership stems from social status concerns (its prevalent in developing countries, plus the U.S.). He has also observed how a legacy of rail transit relates to car-ownership rates even after rail lines vanish, and discovered how potential discriminatory attitudes with respect to class and race influence preferences toward ridesharing.

People make decisions in all sorts of different ways, Zhao says. The notion that people wake up and calculate the utility of taking the car versus taking the bus or walking, or cycling and find the one that maximizes their utility doesnt speak to reality.

Zhao also wants to make sure that decision makers recognize the importance of these personal factors in the overall success of their mobility systems.

I study policy from the individual subjects point of view, says Zhao. Im a citizen. How do I think about it? Do I think this is fair? Do I understand it enough? Do I comply with the policy? It is more of a behavioral approach to policy studies.

To be sure, Zhao is more than a researcher; he is an active mentor of MIT students, having been director of the JTL Urban Mobility Lab and the MIT Transit Lab, and chair of the PhD program in the Department of Urban Studies and Planning (DUSP). And at the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI), Zhao is also co-director of the MITEI Mobility System Center. For his research and teaching, Zhao was awarded tenure last year at MIT.

This May, Zhao added another important role to his brief: He was named director of the new MIT Mobility Initiative, an Institute-wide effort designed to cultivate a dynamic intellectual community on mobility and transportation, redefine the interdisciplinary education program, and effect fundamental changes in the long-term trajectory of mobility development in the world.

We are at the dawn of the most profound changes in transportation: an unprecedented combination of new technologies, such as autonomy, electrification, computation and AI, and new objectives, including decarbonization, public health, economic vibrancy, data security and privacy, and social justice, says Zhao. The timeframe for these changes decarbonization in particular is short in a system with massive amounts of fixed, long-life assets and entrenched behavior and culture. Its this combination of new technologies, new purposes, and urgent timeframes that makes an MIT-led Mobility Initiative critical at this moment.

How much can preferences be shaped?

Zhao says the current time is an exhilarating age for transportation scholarship. And questions surrounding the shape of mobility systems will likely only grow due to the uncertainties introduced by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

If in the 1980s you asked people what the [mobility] system would look like 20 years in the future, they would say it would probably be the same, Zhao says. Now, really nobody knows what it will it look like.

Zhao grew up in China and attended Tongji University in Shanghai, graduating with a bachelors degree in planning in 2001. He then came to MIT for his graduate studies, emerging with three degrees from DUSP: a masters in city planning and a masters in transportation, in 2004, and a PhD in 2009.

For his doctoral dissertation, working with Joseph Ferreira of DUSP and Nigel Wilson of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Zhao examined what he calls preference-accommodating versus preference-shaping approaches to urban mobility.

The preference-accommodating approach, Zhao says, assumes that people know what they want, and no one else has any right to say what those tastes should be. But the preference-shaping approach asks, To the degree preferences can be shaped, should they? Tastes that we think of as almost instinctual, like the love of cars in the U.S., are much more the result of commercial influence than we usually recognize, he believes.

While that distinction was already important to Zhao when he was a student, the acceleration of climate change has made it a more urgent issue now: Can people be nudged toward a lifestyle that centers more around sustainable modes of transportation?

People like cars today, Zhao says. But the auto industry spends hundreds of millions of dollars annually to construct those preferences. If every one of the 7.7 billion human beings strives to have a car as part of a successful life, no technical solutions exist today to satisfy this desire without destroying our planet.

For Zhao, this is not an abstract discussion. A few years ago, Zhao and his colleagues Fred Salvucci, John Attanucci, and Julie Newman helped work on reforms to MITs own acclaimed transportation policy. Those changes fully subsidized mass transit for employees and altered campus parking fees, resulting in fewer single-occupant vehicles commuting to the Institute, reduced parking demand, and greater employee satisfaction.

Pursuing joyful time in the classroom

For all his research productivity, Zhao considers teaching to be at the core of his MIT responsibilities; he has received the Committed to Caring award by MITs Office of Graduate Education and considers classroom discussions to be the most energizing part of his job.

Thats really the most joyful time I have here, Zhao says.

Indeed, Zhao emphasizes, students are an the essential fuel powering MITs notably interdisciplinary activities.

I find that students are often the intermediaries that connect faculty, Zhao says. Most of my PhD students construct a dissertation committee that, beyond me as a supervisor, has faculty from other departments. That student will get input from economists, computer scientists, business professors. And that student brings three to four faculty together that would otherwise rarely talk to each other. I explicitly encourage students to do that, and they really enjoy it.

His own research will always be a work in progress, Zhao says. Cities are complex, mobility systems are intricate, and the needs of people are ever-changing. So there will always be new problems for planners to study and perhaps answer.

Urban mobility is not something that a few brilliant researchers can work on for a year and solve, Zhao concludes. We have to have some degree of humility to accept its complexity.

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What moves people? Associate Professor Jinhua Zhao, who will direct the new MIT Mobility Initiative, brings - MIT News

Anatomy

Free school meals and the anatomy of a U-turn – Spectator.co.uk

No. 10's screeching U-turn on food for low-income kids over the summer will not do the government or ministers serious harm with the wider public. That doesnt mean its not a problem.

First, the public. They are not on Twitter. This fact cannot be repeated enough around Westminster. In a finding that should be tattooed on the flesh of every politician and journalist in and around Westminster, the latest Reuters digital news report finds that only 14 per cent of the UK population say they get news from Twitter.

The hours of Twitter frenzy that precede the U-turn will have gone largely unnoticed by most people. The BBC (including its website) is still, by a mile, the biggest news source in Britain.And quite a lot of those people will first hear about this story as 'government backs nice footballers campaign to be nice to poor kids'. That may even play quite well with some voters, not least since that (remarkably impressive) footballer is being impressively gracious about the change of direction. As I write this, the BBCs home page is leading with this story, with a sub-head: 'The Manchester United star praises the move'

Despite the excitement they generate in the village, U-turns can be sensible and popular. Do not be surprised if this one does the governments standing no harm and even a little good among the public. But that doesnt mean this is a cost-free move. Far from it. It burns goodwill among friends and allies, and just fuels doubts about the effectiveness and judgement of the No. 10 operation.

For a lot of people, including Conservative MPs, the question is: why on earth did No. 10 dig in and fight what looked to everyone else like an unwinnable fight with a smart and popular star over what is, by current standards, a modest sum of money? For a smaller group, made up of ministers and backbench loyalists, the question is: why on earth do I go out on the airwaves and defend this lot when they just end up folding anyway?

Just about any No. 10 operation can instil some fear in ministers, SpAd and MPs the PM still has the power to hire and fire, and sometimes, deselect. And this is a PM with a majority of 80 and more than four years until the next election. But fear is not the same thing as respect, and respect is a far more powerful management tool. Thats whats at stake here.

Chattering about 'the No. 10 operation' is a perennial Westminster parlour game, of no interest anywhere beyond the village. But this stuff does matter to the functioning of government. Even in normal times, the success or failure of a government depends rather too much on how effective and competent the centre is. And these are not normal times.

Team Johnson has decided to run the coronavirus response not though cabinet but a smaller group, with the No. 10 machine at its heart. The Rashford surrender is, in isolation, small beer, but it has not happened in isolation. It comes against a backdrop of growing doubt among Conservative MPs and senior officials about how well No. 10 is gripping the business in hand, and what, if anything, the strategy driven from the centre is.

When I was a Lobby hack, I must have written dozens of stories about 'the No. 10 machine', so I know precisely how little such chatter really matters beyond SW1A. But if I was still doing that job, Id currently be tasting blood in the water, and anticipating more to come.

So look out for the next steps in the time-honoured ritual of political coverage, to be played out in the next couple of weeks:

Some wounds are so small you barely feel them. But they still bleed. Caving in to Marcus Rashford wont do Boris Johnson and his team any harm. Not yet, anyway.

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Free school meals and the anatomy of a U-turn - Spectator.co.uk

Anatomy

What the Tech? Anatomy of social media identity theft – WFMZ Allentown

If you're on Facebook, it's almost a guarantee that you've either experienced social media identity theft or know someone who has.

What is social media identity theft? It's the common practice of a hacker, or "bad actor," taking someone's photo and name and using them to create other accounts.

How does it happen? Here's a brief anatomy of social media hijacking that one of my friends experienced just this week.

I got an Instagram follower recently from one of my Facebook friends, Mary Moore, a woman I've known all my life. The profile picture was of her so I accepted.

The Instagram profile picture was the same one I'm familiar with when I see her posts on Facebook. Almost immediately she sends a message, "Hello, how are you doing?" That generic greeting raised a red flag because I knew it is not how Mary would have started a conversation.

I responded though, asking about her family. Instead of a familial reply, the person on the other side of the account was that she was busy searching for how to invest her grant money. I knew immediately, this was not my friend. This was a bad actor.

I got in touch with the real Mary quickly over Facebook Messenger.

I also wanted to lead the fake Mary along to see what this person is up to. After my comment, she bragged about a "new program" she enrolled in and how she got $100,000 delivered to her, and she didn't have to pay it back. She gave me a phone number to call or text to find out if I qualified for the scam, I mean grant. I imagine the Insta follow and comments were shared with all of her other Facebook friends as well.

So, how did someone steal my friend's social media identity to dupe her friends? It's very simple. Facebook requires accounts to include a photo that is public, meaning someone can find your account and photo, even if they're not on Facebook. The scammer must have searched Google for the common name then had gone to my friend's Facebook page, and simply right clicked on her public photo and used it to set up a fake Instagram account. Then, using her Facebook friends list (which was also made public) the bad guy started sending out Insta followings to anyone they could find on Instagram. Several of our mutual friends were already following the fake account, thinking it was Mary. It probably took the scammer only a few minutes to steal her online identity.

What can you do to prevent it from happening with your account or profile picture? Very little. Anyone can do it, and you'll never know, unless one of your friends who receives a friend or follow request lets you know about it.

Mary and I both reported the fake account using her photo and name and Instagram deleted the fake account. If you've ever doubted whether Facebook and Instagram respond to reports of fake accounts, I assure you they don't.

It's also a good practice to search for your name using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Google every now and then to make sure your name is not being used on other accounts. It's an annoying thing about social media channels.

And if you're going to be online, you'll need to do the occasional upkeep to protect yourself and the people who follow you.

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What the Tech? Anatomy of social media identity theft - WFMZ Allentown

Anatomy

Loretta Devine Was Fired from ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Inside the Actress’ Life and Career – AmoMama

Loretta Devine was fired from "Grey's Anatomy" despite having wona Primetime Emmy Awardfor her work on the show.

Loretta Devine was a cast member of the hit series "Grey's Anatomy" for 8 years, and is one of the hardest working actresses with over 60 feature films to her credit, and an equal number of TV shows.

Devine opened up about being fired from the show right after she wonthe Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her work on the show.

LORETTA DEVINE TALKS ABOUT "GREY'S ANATOMY"

On "Grey's Anatomy,"Devine played Adele Webber, the long-suffering wife of Chief of SurgeryRichard Webber, who endures his neglect to breaking-point. It was Devine's masterly portrayal of Adele that won her the coveted Emmy, and well as a Critics Choice Television AwardsBest Guest Performer in a Drama Series.

Despite that, Devine was stunned to discover she was fired from the show shortly after receiving the Emmy. She said sadly:

"I got an Emmy for the show for best guest spot and then they fired me right after that. They killed me with that damned Alzheimers"

Devine went on to reveal that the decision to fire her had come not from the show's creator, Shonda Rhimes but from executive producer Debbie Allen. Devine revealed:

"That's why you have to keep going. When you go down you have to get back up and keep moving. Because you can't understand why stuff happens in this business."

Adele Webber was "killed off," being diagnosed with Alzheimer's -- the same disease that had victimized Richard's lover,Ellis Grey. Devine's brilliant representation of Adele's deterioration and death was praised and she left the show on a high note.

LIFE AFTER "GREY'S ANATOMY"

Devine is a master on soldiering on. She has worked inover 60 movies, among them "Waiting to Exhale," "Dreamgirls," and "I Am Sam," and was one of the original "Dreamgirls," but she holds a special place in her heart for her work on indie movies. She said:

"Ive done so many independent movies which are dreams of young people. (...)a lot of those were low budget. You don't make a lot of money, but you work with a lot of fabulous people."

But there's a lot more to be said for the woman who handles comedy and tragedy with equal aplomb. Devine is also a devoted wife to husbandGlenn Marshall to whom she has been married for 19 years.

Though contrary to rumorsshe has no children, Devine's motherly warmth has been something that she has had a chance to explore and express on screen as well as off. She revealed:

I get blessed because I've been lucky to play moms in like over 100 films."

LORETTA DEVINE -- WRITER

Devine is more than just a consummate actress, she is also a poetess, and wrote a one-woman play"Pieces of Me" for which she also wrote the music. "Pieces of Me" won her a nomination for the Best One-Woman Show Theatre Award for the best one-woman show.

FAMILY REUNION

Even though the dismissal from "Grey's Anatomy" hurt, Devine has moved on and is now starring in a new sitcom "Family Reunion," in which she plays the family matriarch, M'Dear, an old-fashioned Southern woman who is bewildered by the way her liberal daughter, played by Tia Mowry is raising her children.

NEW PROJECTS

The show premiered on Netflix in July 2019 and has been renewed by the network for its second season after being well-received by both critics and the audiences.

Devine has three films in post-production,"HeadShop," "Welcome to Pine Grove!" and "The Starling" with the release dates still to be announced due to the current pandemic crisis.

With her multifaceted talent as a singer, actress, and writer,Devine is never short on work offers, and at the age of 70, she is in-demand in both television -- drama and comedy -- film, and theater.

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Loretta Devine Was Fired from 'Grey's Anatomy' Inside the Actress' Life and Career - AmoMama