The entitlement crisis escalates

A Reflection on Modern Trends and Technological Developments

Visiting Stonehenge in the United Kingdom recently was an eye-opening experience. Beyond its historical significance, it’s a major tourist attraction with a well-organized system of rules and boundaries. However, the presence of certain individuals—often labeled as influencers—can disrupt this order. These individuals, typically accompanied by friends and exuding a sense of entitlement, often cross the ropes to capture that perfect photo. This behavior reflects a growing trend among self-proclaimed influencers who seem to believe they are above the rules, despite lacking any real expertise or value to offer.

Influencers have become a common sight across various fields, from golf to beauty. Yet, their influence is often based on superficial knowledge rather than genuine skill or experience. They rarely provide practical advice, yet they continue to shape the opinions of younger generations.

The Changing Landscape of Customer Service

Some companies have reportedly adopted a new strategy to avoid dealing with customer inquiries. By keeping callers on hold for extended periods or even dropping calls, these businesses aim to bypass direct interaction. While this may be frustrating, it highlights a shift in how companies manage customer service.

The Absurdity of Digital Verification

A recent quote shared by a friend brought a smile to my face: “The biggest joke on mankind is that computers have begun asking humans to prove they aren’t robots.” Every day, users are subjected to CAPTCHA challenges, sometimes multiple times in a row. It can feel like the system is testing your patience. For instance, when asked to select all squares with bicycles, does that include handlebars? Or when presented with a snowscape and asked to highlight images of a sniper, what exactly counts as a valid selection?

Quantum Computing and the Future of Technology

IBM has made bold claims about developing a scalable quantum computer platform in the near future. Meanwhile, Chinese companies claim to have a 1,000-qubit computer, and other firms have made similar announcements. However, no one has yet achieved a workable 200-qubit system, and scaling remains a significant challenge. While progress might come soon, it could also take years or never happen at all. For now, many quantum computing claims are more marketing than reality.

Renewable Energy and Nuclear Power

Renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, require substantial investment. A single wind turbine tower can cost around $2 million per megawatt, with additional costs for offshore installations. Each turbine occupies about 600 meters of space and has an average lifespan of 20 years. In contrast, small modular reactors like the eVinci in Idaho offer a promising alternative. These compact units can power hundreds of homes with minimal maintenance and refueling every eight years.

The Importance of Reliable Energy

Access to inexpensive and reliable energy is crucial for maintaining our standard of living. Proximity to energy sources reduces transmission losses, and a robust grid ensures stability when parts of the network fail. In regions like Australia, reliance on interconnectors makes the entire system vulnerable. Small modular nuclear reactors appear to be a viable solution for a stable and sustainable energy future.

Operating Systems and the Rise of AI PCs

With three months until the end of support for Windows 10, Windows 11 has taken over in market share. Despite this, a significant portion of users remain on Windows 10, especially in organizations and among home users. Meanwhile, AI PCs have gained popularity without a clear “killer app” to justify their purchase. The term “AI PC” has proven effective in marketing, and it’s likely that a new operating system, Windows 12, will soon be announced.

Simple Fixes for Tech Issues

Sometimes, the simplest solutions work best. Turning a device off and on again remains an effective way to resolve technical issues. This method, famously depicted in the show “The IT Crowd,” continues to be a go-to fix for many users.