In the latest edition of The Download, we bring you an exclusive conversation with Jim O’Neill, the U.S. Deputy Health Secretary, who has emerged as a pivotal figure in public health over the past year. O’Neill, who manages a federal health department with an impressive budget exceeding a trillion dollars, is at the forefront of significant health policies, including the new vaccine schedule that has sparked widespread debate. His commitment to enhancing human healthspan through longevity research is backed by ARPA-H, a federal agency focused on groundbreaking biomedical developments. O’Neill’s vision has garnered support from fellow longevity advocates who are optimistic about increased attention and funding for their initiatives. However, his decision to reduce the recommended childhood vaccines has faced criticism from various public health experts, raising concerns about the implications for community health.
Additionally, we explore the fascinating world of high-tech heists, drawing insights from filmmaker Steven Soderbergh, known for his work on the Ocean’s franchise. Soderbergh likens filmmaking to executing a heist: both require meticulous planning, a skilled team, and the ability to navigate technological challenges. Contrary to the cinematic portrayal of heists filled with high-tech gadgets, real-life criminals face different obstacles, such as advanced surveillance systems and security measures. The reality often diverges from the Hollywood narrative, highlighting that technical countermeasures are frequently more formidable than they appear on screen. This exploration reveals how the myth of the high-tech heist contrasts sharply with the practicalities of actual criminal undertakings, underscoring the need for a clearer understanding of crime in the digital age.
Source: The Download: an exclusive chat with Jim O’Neill, and the surprising truth about heists via MIT Technology Review