Blog | Rational Optimist

These Drones Were Banned (Now They're Saving Lives Faster Than You Think) | ROP #32

Discover how life-saving drones, initially blocked by US regulations, proved their worth in Africa and are now finally launching nationwide.

May 2

Wuhan Lab Leak: Science Over Spectacle

The White House has changed a page on its website, replacing a mundane compendium of advice about Covid vaccines, treatment, and testing with a Hollywood-style poster of Donald Trump striding through the giant words “LAB LEAK”.

Apr 30

Let’s frack manufacturing

America outsourced manufacturing for a reason: it isn’t very profitable.

Apr 28

How America builds real things again

America should embrace its superpower: innovation. Innovation brings abundance, where everyone wins.

Apr 27

Humanity’s Fifth Copernican Moment

I expect to see the existence of extraterrestrial life confirmed within the next few years.

Apr 24

Dire wolves and the age of miracles

More beneficial to humankind than AI

Apr 20

How CRISPR Is Defeating Genetic Disease Faster Than You Think | Rational Optimist #31

Discover why CRISPR technology is defeating genetic diseases faster than you think, restoring sight, hearing, and preventing conditions before birth. We explore the race for supersonic travel (Mach 9 jets?), share our real-world ride in Tesla & Waymo robotaxis, and check out AI drones preventing shark attacks.

Apr 18

The Lawsuit That Could Unleash Limitless Energy | Rational Optimist #30

We tackle the growing lawsuit against the NRC set to unleash nuclear innovation and dive into the invisible battlefield shaping modern conflict.

Apr 14

The Near-Term Future of Flight

I turned right out of Chicago’s Hancock building and was about to cross the street when something at the far end of the towering canyon of buildings leading to Lake Michigan caught my attention.

Apr 13