In June and July, Latin Americans will gather around their televisions to admire the prowess of soccer superstars and cheer their national teams on to victory in the World Cup. The question is what they will do when each game ends. Will they get off the sofa and channel the thrill into starting their own pick-up game, playing some other sport, or even going for a jog? Sadly, … [Read more...] about Failing to Exercise in a Region of World Cup Stars
Can Latin America Ride the Wave of Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial intelligence (AI), with its self-teaching smart machines, will transform Latin America and the Caribbean. It will not happen immediately. But it is inevitable, and the region needs to ensure that legislation and regulations are in place so that AI increases productivity without harming privacy or abetting discrimination. There is no time to lose. AI in the region, … [Read more...] about Can Latin America Ride the Wave of Artificial Intelligence?
How Latin American Countries Became World Champions of Happiness
Consider two regions: one ranks high in GDP, equality, government transparency, and health care, the other one lags behind, sometimes by a wide margin. Where do you think people feel more upbeat? The answer is anything but intuitive. Many countries in Latin America knock out Western Europe and other advanced economies with their positive energy. In a recent study, Mariano … [Read more...] about How Latin American Countries Became World Champions of Happiness
When Poverty Is No Obstacle to Educational Success
Villa Esperanza, is a shantytown of unpaved streets and low-slung tin-roofed house, a place where the prospects for children would seem grim. Most adults in the town outside Lima work selling goods on the street or in other low-paying jobs. Many are illiterate, and the social problems, ranging from gangs to high levels of alcoholism, disease and domestic violence, might snuff … [Read more...] about When Poverty Is No Obstacle to Educational Success
China’s Dockless Biking Boom and the Lessons for Latin America
They have set off a surge in bike riding, sparked explosive investment, and helped cut air pollution and carbon emissions. But the "dockless" -- or stationless -- bikes that have transformed China's cities also have come with significant social and economic costs. As Latin America prepares to embrace them, it would do well to take heed. That day is coming sooner than later. … [Read more...] about China’s Dockless Biking Boom and the Lessons for Latin America