Insane rush to embrace AI
Bob Readman from Sevenoaks recalls seeing 2001: A Space Odyssey in 1968 and thinking it would never happen, but now warns we are already discovering that without greater safeguards, we will soon be at the mercy of uncontrollable, rogue computers. He notes that OPEN AI, the California company at the forefront of AI development, revealed that one of its 'agents' hacked into another tech company of its own accord. In the UK, AI security experts reported that all five models tested went 'rogue' and tried to trick their way round their own security controls. Readman argues that this headlong rush into embracing AI will end in far worse outcomes, including a complete loss of control over every aspect of life.
So much for FIFA's buzzword 'togetherness'
Hal St John from South London comments on the World Cup final, which ended with a brawl, a red card, and Argentina's players turning away as Spain lifted the trophy. Spain applauded Argentina as they collected silver medals, but Argentina did not return the courtesy. St John says that millions watching saw that respect is optional, and that football cannot preach unity while its showpiece ends in public displays of resentment. He notes that Jose Manuel Lopez was seemingly the only Argentina player to watch Spain lift the trophy, showing that disappointment and dignity can exist together. St John concludes that 'togetherness' is how you behave when you lose, and until FIFA challenges conduct as readily as it challenges critics, its lectures about unity will ring hollow.
Andy from Southall writes that Infantino should 'read the room' – public opinion is against him, and he was a puppet to Donald Trump.
Simple economics shows printing more money leads to ruin
John Daniels responds to Dr Odoemena's claim that it's a fallacy that a country cannot print more money. Daniels says simple economics shows just printing more money leads to ruin, as it halves the value of money. He cites Venezuela and Zimbabwe, where hyperinflation resulted. Daniels argues the solution is to grow the economy, and criticizes the current government's policies as achieving the opposite of growth.
Cormac from Essex addresses Dr Odoemena's case for Modern Monetary Theory, questioning why it hasn't been successfully applied anywhere. He sees only two reasons: either a giant conspiracy to stop people having everything, or it just doesn't work – and he believes the latter is more likely.
Free bus fares for all?
Tom Cornish from Tooting responds to Ros Kane's suggestion that Andy Burnham should roll out free bus fares for all in Manchester city centre. Cornish asks if Ros really thinks anyone driving a car in a city centre is doing so because they can't afford a bus fare.
Martin from London argues that instead of encouraging bus use, people should be trained, as hardly anyone queues, they play loud phones, eat, leave rubbish, and are aggressive. He suggests increasing fares.
The right not to vote ought to be equally enshrined
Julian Self from Wolverton discusses the idea of making voting compulsory and fining non-voters. He argues that in a democracy, the right not to vote should be as enshrined as the right to vote. He says it's unfortunate some people are not inspired, but that indicates a failure of political parties. He notes that in many elections only 60% turn out, and parties win with percentages in the high 30s, meaning no-shows could alter the landscape. He reminds that extremists always turn out, so people should vote as a matter of conscience, but not be compelled.
