Intelligent Machines

Putting Technology in Its Place

Kentaro Toyama went to India with noble intentions for using technology to improve people’s lives. Now he’s wrestling with why the impact was so small.

• by Brian Bergstein

Biotechnology

The Problem with Fake Meat

It might be possible to create a burger that helps the environment and improves your health. But will it taste good enough to win over the masses?

• by Corby Kummer

Business Impact

Survival in the Age of Spotify

Two rock musicians find flaws—and hope—in a book that suggests how artists can earn a decent living even after free online access to music has ravaged the business.

• by Aimee Mann and Ted Leo

Humans and Technology

Toolkits for the Mind

Programming languages shape the way their users think—which helps explain how tech startups work and why they are able to reinvent themselves.

• by James Somers

Sustainable Energy

Power to the People

From the Archives

Eat Your Veggies

The long quest to replace meat.

Business Impact

Technology and Persuasion

Persuasive technologies surround us, and they’re growing smarter. How do these technologies work? And why?

• by Nanette Byrnes