Trump Sworn In as 47th President, Vowing Return to Glory
Donald Trump was sworn into his second term as U.S. president, vowing a “complete restoration of America” and prioritizing issues like immigration, government efficiency, and fossil fuel expansion. While higher education received limited focus during his inaugural speech, Trump has previously hinted at measures like taxing university endowments. The ceremony, quieter than in 2017, saw notable attendees such as Mark Zuckerberg, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Elise Stefanik. Harvard is cautiously preparing for potential policy changes under Trump, recalling strained relations during his first term over immigration and education policies.
Donald Trump's desire for weaker dollar could soon become a reality: Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff
Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff predicts a weakening of the U.S. dollar, aligning with Donald Trump's preference for a weaker currency to boost trade competitiveness. Rogoff notes the dollar is currently "rich" and at a historically high level, as seen in 1985 and 2002, but global economic shifts, such as differing interest rate cycles, could prompt a correction. He also foresees a "reality check" on American exceptionalism, suggesting that the strong dollar's challenges to global trade and U.S. competitiveness may lead to adjustments in the coming year.
Davos 2025 | AI driving up interest rates, says Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff
At Davos 2025, Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff emphasized AI's profound influence on global economic trends, particularly its role in driving up interest rates. He highlighted AI's impact on productivity, labor markets, and inflation, noting its potential to intensify demand for skilled labor and reshape economic growth dynamics. Rogoff urged central banks to adapt monetary policies to address these challenges, including shifts in consumer behavior and spending. He underscored the need for proactive, nuanced strategies to manage the economic complexities arising from rapid AI adoption.
CS50’s Bold Leap: An AI Revolution. What Does It Mean for Education?
Harvard's CS50 course has integrated AI into its curriculum, marking a significant shift in education. Students now engage with AI tools like TensorFlow and PyTorch while tackling real-world challenges. Ethics discussions address issues like bias and privacy, fostering socially responsible innovation. The course's global accessibility could inspire similar initiatives worldwide, creating an AI-literate workforce. By equipping students with technical and ethical skills, Harvard is preparing them to address humanity's challenges, from climate change to economic transformation, while shaping future educational standards in an AI-driven world.
Slim People More At Risk of A Deadly Heart Attack, Says Harvard Study; Here's Why
A Harvard Medical School study found that slim individuals with fat stored in their muscles are at higher risk of heart attacks and coronary microvascular dysfunction. Unlike subcutaneous fat, intramuscular fat may cause inflammation and insulin resistance, increasing heart disease risk. Women with this fat are particularly vulnerable, with a 7% higher risk of serious heart conditions for every 1% increase in intramuscular fat. Weight loss drugs reducing lean muscle mass could exacerbate the issue. Researchers call for better obesity metrics, as BMI may overlook these hidden risks.