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Beware the moral panic over AI data centers

Don't look now, but we seem to have a moral panic on our hands. The term moral panic, at least as a social science concept, is relatively modern. It was coined by Stanley Cohen in the 1972 book "Folk Devils and Moral Panics." Moral panics emerge when large numbers of people start to freak out ...

What if factories had gotten the data center treatment?

When American manufacturing was truly coming into its own in the early 20th century, workers sometimes labored 12-hour days seven days a week and risked life and limb working near dangerous machinery, while factories blackened the skies of American cities. Yet some of the same people who ...

Truths and omissions as US hits $40 trillion in debt

The U.S. national debt just crossed the $40 trillion threshold, doubling in less than a decade. Washington politicians have responded with their favorite fiscal game: blaming the other party. Democrats say Republican tax cuts are the culprit. Republicans say Democratic spending is the root ...

A tale of our town — and yours

WASHINGTON — The city takes a deep breath after the president's IndyCar auto races came and went without crashing a precious Smithsonian artwork, and before Congress returns. Cicadas and tennis balls make background music. Thank god we didn't lose a Cezanne or Renoir as IndyCar drivers ...

Remembering Dolly Parton and her literacy work

To the Journal editor: This week, we mourn the loss of Dolly Parton, a woman known for her talent, kindness, humor and generosity. But as an educator, I will remember her for her commitment to literacy. Dolly understood that something as simple as putting a book into the hands of a child can open a door that changes a life. Inspired by her father, who could not read or write, she created Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which grew from her Tennessee community into an extraordinary literacy movement reaching millions of children. I know how powerful books can be. I was a shy ...

Students warned against relying on energy drinks

While it's still too early to pull all-nighters for studying, students heading back to classes at all levels may be tempted to seek an "energy drink" to manage the shift to early mornings, homework, athletics and busy afterschool schedules. But experts with Aspirus Health caution that energy drinks are not a safe or healthy way for children and teens to stay alert. Energy drinks often contain high levels of caffeine, added sugars and other stimulants that can affect sleep, mood, hydration and heart health. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends adolescents avoid energy drinks, ...