Seven Must-Read Stories (Week ending December 20, 2015)

Another chance to catch the most interesting and important articles from the previous week on MIT Technology Review.

December 18, 2015

Can This Man Make AI More Human?
One cognitive scientist thinks the leading approach to machine learning can be improved by ideas gleaned from studying children.
Inside the First VR Theme Park
A new form of weekend entertainment combines virtual reality with a clever stage set. For now, you’ll have to visit suburban Utah to check it out.
Socks Generate Electricity Using Microbes Fed by Urine
Yes, you read that right.
Are Young Athletes Risking Brain Damage?
Sports leagues should do more to protect children from the long-term problems that stem from hits to the head.
User Error Compromises Many Encrypted Communication Apps
Apps that aim to let you talk securely may be made less secure by users who screw up the authentication process.
A Change of Mind
Diana Bianchi championed tests that find Down syndrome early in pregnancy. Now can she find a way to treat it?
Paris Climate Agreement Rests on Shaky Technological Foundations
The effort to limit global climate change relies on technologies that are unproven or even illusory.

One insider says the company’s current staffing isn’t able to sustain the platform.

Digital clones of the people we love could forever change how we grieve.

I watched a bunch of crows on TikTok and now I'm trying to connect with some local birds.

Elon said no thanks to using his mega-constellation for navigation. Researchers went ahead anyway.

Illustration by Rose Wong

Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review

Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.