3-D printing is the latest innovation in manufacturing, one that will likely presage a return to manufacturing activity in many countries that lost out to countries with cheaper labor. Unfortunately, this new activity will most likely not create many jobs. It is very difficult to anticipate how disruptive this new phase of economic activity will be. Obviously, many jobs will be lost; but some jobs will certainly be created as well. It does seem, however, that there will be a net loss of jobs.
Syria has disappeared from the internet. In a remarkable turn of events, virtually all internet traffic from Syria stopped today. It is likely that the Syrian government halted the traffic, but it is unclear why the government would do so. Obviously, one fears some sort of incident that the government does not wish to be made public. But all we can do at this time is speculate.
One of the more serious immediate problems the world faces (there are many medium and long-term threats as well) is the unemployment of people aged 15-24. The OECD identifies the status of many of these people as NEETs–Not in Employment, Education, or Training. The Economist estimates that as many as 290 million people are NEETs, or about a quarter of that group’s total population. This age cohort is politically important, and if the group gives up hope for the future, then politics generally speaking becomes more radical (to the right and to the left).
World Politics News 
Leave a comment