2017

commentary

Artificial Intelligence and the Military

AI has many possible applications for the military, such as providing unpredictable and adaptive adversaries for training fighter pilots. But what are the implications of AI adoption?

Robert W. Button

commentary

If Teenagers Get More Sleep, California Could Gain Billions

Two key effects of better-rested teens are improved academic performance and reduced motor vehicle crashes. Delaying school start times to 8:30 a.m. could result in economic benefits that would be realized within a matter of years — $10 billion in California alone.

Wendy M. Troxel @wendytroxel, Marco Hafner

commentary

Vehicular Terrorism: Weighing the Benefits, and Worth, of Prevention

The terrorist attack in Barcelona has added urgency to discussions of what can be done to prevent terrorists from using vehicles as weapons. Many potential security measures would be disruptive, costly, and could easily be circumvented by a determined terrorist.

Brian Michael Jenkins @BrianMJenkins

commentary

Anticipating Harvey's Toll on Health and Health Care

After Hurricane Harvey, challenges to the health of affected communities and the health care systems that serve them are expected to grow. Among the problems are closures of hospitals, pharmacies, and dialysis centers. Lessons from Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy could help relief efforts.

Mahshid Abir, Richard Serino

essay

What Happens When RAND Rethinks Its Workspace

In an economy that increasingly values ideas over tasks, companies are breaking down office walls, scrapping the idea of a nine-to-five, and doing away with cubicles. A RAND project shows how a modern workspace can be conducive to both collaboration and individual work.

commentary

Managing Chaos in an Era of Great Power Competition

As Washington policymakers seek a new strategic course, U.S. national security strategy should not neglect the importance of competition short of armed conflict. A U.S. strategy that incorporates this perspective from the beginning could manage chaos at a reasonable cost.

Austin Long, Linda Robinson, et al.

commentary

Countering Violent Islamist Extremism: The Value of Words Over War

It is highly probable that the world will witness more attacks on civilian-centric locations as groups like the Islamic State group try to prove their continued relevance. Governments need a more nuanced strategy aimed at helping communities counter the conditions that contribute to extremist violence.

Peter Chalk

commentary

Why More Young Workers Are Relying on Financial Help from Parents

As today's young adults grapple with a difficult job market, high tuition costs, and rapidly rising rents, parents are increasingly providing financial support and other forms of assistance.

Kathryn A. Edwards @keds_economist

commentary

President Trump's Recommitment to Nation-Building in Afghanistan

In his speech on Afghanistan, President Trump maintained his stance against nation-building. But like President Obama's policy, the refreshed approach hinges on the U.S. developing Afghan government capabilities to fight the Taliban, provide for the country's long-term security, and serve as a counterterrorism partner.

Laurel E. Miller

commentary

Many Americans Face Bullying, Harassment, and Abuse at Work, but Bosses Can Help

Workers are experiencing high levels of hostile behaviors at work. Nearly one in five American workers have been subjected to some form of verbal abuse, unwanted sexual attention, threats, or humiliating behavior at work, with younger non-college educated workers bearing the most risk.

Kathleen J. Mullen, Jeffrey B. Wenger

commentary

Countering Chinese Coercion: The Case of Doklam

India and China have agreed to end a two-month border confrontation in the Doklam area claimed by both China and Bhutan. The immediate crisis seems to be over, but it offers insights into Chinese coercive strategies and how they may be thwarted.

Oriana Skylar Mastro, Arzan Tarapore

commentary

What Autonomous Vehicles Could Mean for American Workers

Autonomous vehicles are projected to hit American roads within the next few years. They promise safer transportation, greater mobility for millions of Americans, and other benefits. But they will also have enormous impacts on the workforce.

Nidhi Kalra

commentary

Hezbollah Has Been Active in America for Decades

Hezbollah has been active inside the United States for decades, engaging in a range of activities that include fundraising and money laundering. The U.S. and its allies should continue to combat the financing of terrorism and take action against the funding of terrorist groups on U.S. soil.

Colin P. Clarke

commentary

Why the Mental Ill Health of Academic Researchers Remains a Hidden Problem

The mental health and well-being of higher education staff is a significant challenge, probably even more so than the evidence indicates.

Susan Guthrie, Catherine A. Lichten

commentary

Campaign for Fair Food Makes a Real Difference

The Fair Food Program protects farmworkers while providing corporations with transparency in their supply chains and tremendous brand protection. It has been widely recognized for improving agricultural working conditions and for changing the culture of America's farm fields.

Susan L. Marquis @susanlmarquis