Today’s picks
1. Christina Applegate says she was misdiagnosed with MS—how could that happen?
Emmy-winning actress Christina Applegate says her 2021 multiple sclerosis diagnosis was incorrect. Experts note that such misdiagnoses are surprisingly common. The article explains how MS can be confused with other conditions and why diagnostic errors matter for patients. It is worth reading for a clearer view of the limits and risks of diagnosis.
2. AI-powered personal assistants could reshape the digital economy
This article examines how AI-powered personal assistants could reshape the digital economy. It argues that widespread adoption depends on two conditions: proving safety for users and demonstrating real value for businesses. The piece is worth reading for a clear view of the opportunities and barriers facing AI assistants as they move from demos to commercial infrastructure.
3. Germany’s young conservatives are angry with their own party
This article examines young German conservatives who are disappointed with Friedrich Merz yet pleased with themselves. It highlights generational and ideological tensions inside the centre-right, and the rising confidence of youth conservative networks. Worth reading for insight into the future of German conservatism and Merz’s leadership challenges.
4. The mathematical impossibility of making a perfect world map
Mapping a sphere onto a flat plane is mathematically impossible. Yet the Mercator projection is not the best available compromise. This piece explains why a perfect world map cannot exist and how mapmakers trade off distortions in area, shape, and direction. It is worth reading for a clear look at the mathematical constraints behind every map.
By publication
The Economist
- AI-powered personal assistants could reshape the digital economy
- Germany’s young conservatives are angry with their own party