Well, it’s certainly been a lot happening in the United States this week. To break it all down, Professor of Political Science at Cypress College, Peter Matthews, joins me now. First of all, NATO has denied Ukraine’s request to join the alliance. The reaction to this decision has been mixed, with concerns about Ukraine’s readiness and the potential consequences of such a move. President Biden and NATO are cautious about allowing Ukraine to join while it is at war with Russia, as it could draw all of NATO into the conflict. There are also concerns about corruption in Ukraine and ensuring that funds are used appropriately. The situation between Ukraine and Russia is worse than what is being reported, and it is devastating. The funding provided by the US and Europe needs to be closely monitored to ensure it is used for defense purposes. Moving on, Hollywood is experiencing its biggest strike in over six decades. Both actors and writers are walking off the job, demanding fair compensation and better working conditions. The rise of artificial intelligence in the industry is also a concern, as it threatens the livelihood of actors and the creative process. AI is being used to replicate actors’ images and replace them with AI robots, leading to job losses. The wages and royalties for actors need to be increased, especially with the rise of streaming services that do not adequately compensate them. However, AI should be regulated to prevent misuse and protect individuals’ data. In the education sector, AI can be a useful tool for research, but students should not rely solely on it. They need to develop their own critical thinking and creative abilities. Lastly, the United Parcel Service (UPS) is threatening a 10-day work stoppage, which could have significant economic consequences. UPS workers are demanding fair compensation for their efforts during the pandemic and a share of the company’s profits. The supply chains and essential deliveries, such as prescription drugs, could be interrupted if the strike occurs. It is crucial to find a resolution that benefits both the workers and the company. These are just some of the latest happenings in the United States and the implications of AI in various industries. It is essential to monitor these developments and ensure that they are regulated and managed effectively.
