Tag Archives: britain

The First Evidence of Fire-Making by Early Humans in Britain

Posted on by
Reply

Artistic representation of sparks from flint and pyrite

Craig Williams, Trustee of the British Museum

Approximately 400,000 years ago, Neanderthals or their ancestors in Britain struck flint with pyrite, repeatedly igniting fires in the same location. Archaeologists believe this is the earliest evidence of human fire-making discovered to date.

Early humans may have opportunistically utilized fire for around 1.5 million years, likely benefiting from naturally occurring fires caused by events like lightning strikes.

Starting around 400,000 years ago, signs of more extensive fire usage grew in Europe, yet direct evidence indicates that humans gained the ability to control fire only around 50,000 years ago.

Nick Ashton from The British Museum reported three crucial findings from the Burnham Quarry site in Suffolk: pyrite, charred deposits, and a heat-damaged hatchet.

Pyrite holds significant importance in humanity’s fire history, as striking it with flint can produce sparks capable of igniting dry materials. However, pyrite does not naturally occur near quarries, implying that early humans must have transported it. “Pyrite is crucial,” Ashton states.

Additionally, the reddish sediment left by these fires is vital, according to him. Combustion alters the iron minerals present in the deposits, consequently changing their magnetic characteristics. Laboratory tests indicate that the reddish clay layer may have experienced firing events more than a dozen times, suggesting that humans revisited and ignited fires in this area repeatedly.

Heating flint facilitates its shaping into sharp tools, but excessive heat can lead to its shattering, as evidenced by the hatchet discovered at Burnham. Tests indicated it exceeded 700 degrees Celsius, prompting Mr. Ashton to believe it had inadvertently been heated.

Excavations at a disused quarry in Burnham, UK

Jordan Mansfield, Road to Ancient Britain Project.

Ashton notes that there’s accumulating evidence suggesting humans half a million years ago possessed a range of cultural and technological abilities, including making and using fire.

“Early Neanderthals, along with other modern human species, were far more capable than we often acknowledge,” Ashton says. “Starting a fire is no simple task; it necessitates understanding pyrite’s origin, its properties when used with flint, and selecting the right tinder to create a flame.”

John Gowlett at The University of Liverpool has stated that recent findings make it “highly plausible” that individuals 400,000 years ago were not just aware of fire but likely utilized it daily.

“Early humans were indeed familiar with fire, but the mere discovery of a burnt object associated with a tool doesn’t automatically indicate human control over it,” he explains. “If a location shows signs of repeated human occupation accompanied by multiple indicators of fire, that presents compelling evidence of human control, as natural fires seldom occur in the same place repeatedly.”

A gentle walk through the origins of humanity and prehistoric times in south-west England

Join a gentle walking tour immersing yourself in early human eras, including the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age.

Topics:

  • Neanderthal Man/
  • Ancient Humans

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Health of the Population Suffered Due to the Roman Occupation of Britain.

Posted on by
Reply

Reconstruction of the city of Wroxeter in Roman Britain

Ivan Lapper/British Heritage/Heritage Images/Getty Images

During Roman rule, the health standards of Britain’s populace declined, particularly in city environments.

There’s a common conception that the Romans introduced civilization and its various advantages, exemplified by a scene in Monty Python’s Life of Brian, where Reg, portrayed by John Cleese, rhetorically asks, “Aside from hygiene, medicine, education, wine, security, irrigation, roads, freshwater systems, and sanitation, what have the Romans ever done for us?”

However, researchers have recognized health issues for at least a decade. A study titled Declining public health in Iron Age Britain indicates that after the Romans arrived in 43 AD, the population continued to thrive even after their departure.

Currently, Rebecca Pitt and her team at the University of Reading in the UK analyzed 646 ancient human bones, with 372 belonging to children under three and a half years at death, and 274 from adult women aged 18 to 45. These remains originated from 24 Iron Age and Romano-British sites in southern and central England, spanning from the 4th century before Roman arrival to the 4th century AD, coinciding with the Roman exit.

Pitt evaluated age based on the pelvic features of adults and the teeth of children. By studying both potential mothers and their infants, she aims to gain insights into the stressors that impacted different generations during Roman dominance.

“A mother’s health significantly affects her child’s well-being, and environmental factors during crucial developmental stages can have enduring effects on health,” remarks Pitt.

Pitt scrutinized the bones and teeth for irregularities such as lesions or fractures indicative of conditions like tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, or dental diseases. She utilized X-rays to investigate the internal bone structure, highlighting changes in development stemming from malnutrition or deficiencies in vitamins C and D.

Her findings suggest that the adverse health outcomes linked to Roman occupation were especially apparent in two major urban centers: the Roman administrative town of Venta Belgarum (now Winchester) and Corinium Duvennorm (Cirencester).

Overall, 81 percent of urban Roman adults exhibited bone abnormalities compared to 62 percent of Iron Age individuals, while no significant differences were noted between Iron Age and rural Roman populations. Furthermore, only 26% of Iron Age children presented such issues, in contrast to 41% from Roman rural areas and 61% in Roman urban settings.

“A notable issue among non-adults in urban settings was rickets, indicating insufficient vitamin D from sunlight,” states Pitt.

She proposes that these health challenges, which persisted across generations, were attributable to new diseases brought by the Romans, along with the class disparities and infrastructure they established, which led to restricted resource access and overcrowded, polluted living conditions for those of lower social standing.

“My father enjoys telling jokes. Life of Brian reveals, however, that the Romans had a significantly negative impact on our health, affecting numerous generations,” observes Pitt.

Martin Millett, a professor at Cambridge University, expressed that this discovery is fascinating, suggesting that the effects may be underestimated if the buried individuals belonged to higher social classes who might have experienced better health, although he does not believe the observations are strictly urban-related.

“These urban settings are not the vast medieval towns known for deep poverty and high population densities,” he notes. “What we may be witnessing is an expanding divide between the wealthy and impoverished, with the Roman Empire’s economic and social systems exacerbating this gap over time.”

Richard Maggwick, a professor at Cardiff University, also remarked that the Roman legacy did not equitably benefit everyone. “While we gained better sanitation, hygiene, and medical knowledge, accessibility remains a crucial question,” he states. “The truth is that not everyone benefited, and it took time for these advantages to reach various social strata.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Is Britain Becoming an Economic Colony?

Posted on by
Reply

THalf a century ago, protests erupted in the American colonies against British authority, triggered by Congress’ tea sales monopoly and the antics of a proud king. Fast forward to today, and it is Britain that finds itself under the influence of American tech giants (companies so powerful they operate as monopolies) and an unpredictable president. Strangely, Britain appears comfortable with this scenario, sometimes even willing to sustain its economic reliance. The UK isn’t alone in yielding to American corporate power, but it serves as a prominent example of why nations must collaborate to address the dominance of such hegemons.

The current age of American tech monopolization took root in the 2000s, when the UK, like many nations, became heavily reliant on a few major American platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon. It was a period marked by optimism around the internet as a democratizing force, with the belief that these platforms would benefit everyone. During the 1990s, the vision was simple yet appealing: anyone with a passion or skill could go online and earn a living from it.

America’s edge in technology wasn’t a result of a single policy. However, it reflected a choice made by each nation, as highlighted by China’s decision to block foreign websites and develop its own. While such actions might be easier for authoritarian regimes, they also established an industrial strategy that left China as the sole major economy with its independent digital ecosystem.

This pattern continued from the 2000s into the 2010s. Amazon and Microsoft quickly dominated cloud computing. Within Europe and the UK, no significant competitors emerged to challenge platforms like Uber or Airbnb. While these companies have undeniably offered convenience and entertainment, the wealth generated by the Internet hasn’t been distributed as widely as many anticipated. Instead, American firms captured the majority, becoming the most valuable companies in history. This trend is repeating itself now with artificial intelligence, where the significant profits appear to be heading once more to Silicon Valley.

Why was there minimal pushback? Essentially, Britain and Europe adhered to the principles of free trade and globalization. According to this ideology, nations should concentrate on their strengths. Just as it made sense for Britain to import French wine or Spanish ham, relying on American technology rather than developing it domestically seemed logical. Instead, the focus shifted to Britain’s strengths, such as finance, creative industries, and whisky production.

However, when it comes to these new platforms, the comparison to standard trade collapses. There’s a crucial distinction between fine wine and the technology that supports the entire online economy. While Burgundy might be costly, it doesn’t siphon value or gather advantageous data from every interaction. The trade theories of the 1990s blurred the lines between ordinary goods and those integral to the market infrastructure necessary for buying and selling. Google and Amazon epitomize this. A more fitting analogy would be allowing foreign companies to construct toll roads throughout the country and charge whatever they wish for usage.

Now, as we build artificial intelligence, we witness a similar scenario. During President Trump’s state visit in September, the UK confidently highlighted investments by Google and Microsoft in “data centers”—expansive facilities filled with computer servers powering AI systems. Yet, data centers represent the most basic level of the AI economy, serving solely to send profits back to U.S. headquarters.

In a different scenario, the UK could have emerged as a genuine leader in AI. At one point, American researchers trailed behind their British and French counterparts. Yet, in a move that neither the U.S. nor the Chinese governments would have permitted, the UK willingly allowed the sale of many major AI assets and talents over the past decade—Google’s acquisition of DeepMind serves as a prominent example. What’s left is an AI strategy that primarily involves supplying electricity and land for data centers. It feels akin to being invited to a gathering only to discover you’re there to pour drinks.

If technology platforms are indeed comparable to toll roads, a rational step would be to mitigate their burden, potentially by instituting toll caps or imposing charges for data extraction. Yet, no country has taken such actions. We accept the platform’s existence, but we struggle to regulate its influence like we would with traditional utilities. The European Union has made strides through digital market legislation that manages how dominant platforms interact with their reliant businesses. Meanwhile, the U.S. government finds itself at the behest of its own tech giants, with Congress stuck in inertia.

Should the UK choose an alternative route to combat this economic colonization and exploitation, it could collaborate with the European Union and possibly Japan to devise a unified strategy. This strategy would compel platforms to support local businesses and cultivate alternatives to established U.S. technologies. However, thus far, the UK, along with other nations subjected to American hegemony, has been slow to adapt, clinging to a 90s approach even though evidence suggests this is no longer effective.

The reality is we are now in a more strategic and cynical era. Regardless, a far more rigorous antitrust framework is necessary than what we’ve observed thus far. Across the globe, it’s evident that a more diverse array of companies from various nations would lead to a better world. The alternatives are not only costly but also foster political risks, resentment, and dependency. We can aspire to more than a future where what passes for economic freedom is merely a choice between reliance on the United States or dependency on China.

Tim Wu is a former special assistant to President Biden and the author of the book The Age of Extraction: How Tech Platforms Conquered the Economy and Threatened Our Future Prosperity (Bodley Head).

Read more

technology coup By Marietje Schake (Princeton, £13.99)

supremacy By Palmy Olson (Pan Macmillan, £10.99)

chip war Written by Chris Miller (Simon & Schuster, £10.99)

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tony Blair Warns: “History Won’t Forgive Us” if Britain Lags in the Quantum Computing Race

Posted on by
Reply

Prime Minister Tony Blair asserted that “history will not permit” Britain to lag behind in the quantum computing race. This advanced technology is anticipated to ignite a new era of innovations across various fields, from pharmaceutical development to climate analysis.

“The United Kingdom risks losing its edge in quantum research,” cautioned the former Labor prime minister at the Tony Blair Institute, a think tank supported by tech industry veterans such as Oracle founder Larry Ellison.

In a report advocating for a national quantum computing strategy, Mr. Blair and former Conservative leader William Hague drew parallels between the current situation and the evolution of artificial intelligence. While the UK made significant contributions to AI research, it has since surrendered its leadership to other nations, particularly the US, which has triggered a race to develop “sovereign” AI capabilities.

“As demonstrated with AI, a robust R&D foundation alone is insufficient; countries with the necessary infrastructure and capital will capture the economic and strategic advantages of such technologies,” they noted. “While the UK boasts the second-largest number of quantum start-ups globally, it lacks the high-risk investment and infrastructure essential for scaling these ventures.”

Quantum computing operates in unusual and fascinating ways that contrast sharply with classical computing. Traditional computers process information through transistors that switch on or off, representing 1s and 0s. However, in quantum mechanics, entities can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to a phenomenon called quantum superposition, which allows transistors to be in an on and off state concurrently.

This leads to a dramatic boost in computational capabilities, enabling a single quantum computer to perform tasks that would typically require billions of the most advanced supercomputers. Although this field is not yet mature enough for widespread application, the potential for simulating molecular structures to develop new materials and pharmaceuticals is vast. The true value of quantum computing lies in its practical delivery. Estimations suggest that industries such as chemicals, life sciences, automotive, and finance could represent about $1.3 trillion.

There are increasing fears that extraordinarily powerful quantum machines could decipher all encryption and pose serious risks to national security.

Prime Ministers Blair and Hague remarked: “The quantum era is upon us, whether Britain chooses to lead or not.” They added, “History will not excuse us if we squander yet another opportunity to excel in groundbreaking technology.”

This alert follows the recent recognition of British, Cambridge-educated John Clarke, who received the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to quantum computing, alongside the continued growth of UK quantum firms supported by US companies.

In June, the Oxford University spinout Oxford Ionics was acquired by US company IonQ for $1.1 billion. Meanwhile, Cyclantum, a spinout from the University of Bristol and Imperial College London, primarily thrived in California, discovering that its most enthusiastic investors were located there, where it developed its first large-scale quantum computer. These advancements can be made in Brisbane, Australia.

A report from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change critiques the UK’s current quantum approach, highlighting that both China and the US are “ahead of the game,” with countries like Germany, Australia, Finland, and the Netherlands also surpassing the UK.

A government representative stated: “Quantum technology has the potential to revolutionize sectors ranging from healthcare to affordable clean energy. The UK currently ranks second globally for quantum investment and possesses leading capabilities in supply chains such as photonics, yet we are resolute in pushing forward.”

They continued: “We have committed to a groundbreaking 10-year funding strategy for the National Quantum Computing Center and will plan other aspects of the national program in due course.”

In June, the Labor party unveiled a £670 million initiative to expedite the application of quantum computing, as part of an industrial strategy aimed at developing new treatments for untreatable diseases and enhancing carbon capture technologies.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Alan Turing Institute Unveils Initiative to Safeguard Britain Against Cyber Attacks

Posted on by
Reply

The foremost AI institute in Britain has declared a new initiative to safeguard the nation from cyber assaults targeting essential services such as energy, transportation, and utilities. This announcement follows the resignation of its chief executive, who stepped down amid pressure from government officials over allegations of a detrimental workplace environment.

On Tuesday, the Alan Turing Institute revealed that it will “launch a program of science and innovation focused on shielding the UK from hostile threats.” This initiative is part of a broader reorganization following the resignation of CEO Jean Innes last month, which came after staff discontent and the government’s directive for a state-sponsored strategic review of the institution.

This mission arises from escalating worries about online disruptions and the UK’s susceptibility to cyberattacks, particularly in light of recent incidents that impacted Amazon’s cloud operations globally, along with cyberattacks that disrupted production at Jaguar Land Rover’s facility and influenced the supply chains of Marks & Spencer and Co-op.

Bryce Crawford, the former leader of the UK Air and Space Warfare Center, is expected to deliver a report next month addressing how government-supported research institutes can “enhance the scale of the government’s AI goals in defense, national security, and intelligence.”


Chairman Doug Garr, a former president of Amazon UK, disclosed that 78 different research initiatives at the 440-member institute have been shut down, transferred, or completed due to misalignment with the new trajectory.

The institute has experienced significant internal conflict since last year as staff opposed the proposed changes, leading to a group of employees submitting a whistleblower complaint to the Charity Commission.

In a BBC interview, Garr stated that the allegations from the whistleblower were “independently investigated” by an external entity and deemed “without merit.”

Named after the mathematical pioneer who played a crucial role in decoding the Enigma machine during World War II, the institute is associated with key concepts of AI and is also known for the Turing Test, which evaluates whether computers can demonstrate human-like intelligence.

The institute will additionally emphasize applying AI to environmental and health challenges. Leveraging rapidly evolving technology, it aims to create faster and more precise methods to forecast shifts in weather, oceans, and sea ice, aiding UK government endeavors to enhance the readiness of emergency responders. Furthermore, it seeks “measurable reductions in emissions across transportation networks, manufacturing processes, and critical infrastructure.”

In the health sector, it will prioritize the creation of a digital twin of the human heart, pushing forward in AI-enabled personalized medicine to potentially enhance medical interventions and improve outcomes for patients with severe heart conditions.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Britain Discovers Europe’s Longest Sauropod Dinosaur Footprint

Posted on by
Reply

In 2024, a remarkable discovery was made at Dewar’s Farm Quarry, located near Bicester, Oxfordshire, England, where new large sauropod dinosaur footprints were found. This year, palaeontologists from Oxford University, Birmingham University, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History uncovered approximately 200 additional footprints comprising four distinct tracks, including Europe’s longest sauropod dinosaur track.

A 166-million-year-old sauropod dinosaur footprint at Dewar’s Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire, England. Image credit: University of Birmingham.

The four newly discovered tracks at Dewar’s Farm Quarry date back to the Middle Jurassic period, approximately 166 million years ago.

These belong to sauropod dinosaurs, which are characterized as large-bodied, long-necked herbivores. Cetiosaurus.

Among these discoveries is Europe’s longest sauropod dinosaur footprint, extending roughly 220 meters from the first exposed footprint to the last.

Professor Kirsty Edgar from the University of Birmingham commented: “We were thrilled to return to the Dewar’s Farm quarry earlier this year to continue our excavation and unveil further dinosaur footprints.”

“This site in Oxfordshire boasts the largest dinosaur footprint in the UK and is likely the largest dinosaur footprint in the world that has been mapped, considering previous discoveries from the 1990s on the same surface nearby.”

Over seven days, the team faced a much drier and harder surface compared to previous years, concentrating on about 80 very large (up to 1 meter) sauropod footprints that create a remarkable trajectory running roughly north-south across the site.

In addition to the extensive sauropod track, three other shorter tracks were revealed, one of which is a continuation of a trace initially discovered in 2022.

While these findings may not be published continuously, the accumulation of data could lead to even longer orbital patterns.

Minor discoveries at the site included marine invertebrates, plant material, and a crocodile jaw.

Professor Richard Butler from the University of Birmingham stated: “Most of what we comprehend about dinosaurs is derived from their skeletons, but dinosaur footprints and deposits can offer valuable insights into how these creatures lived and the environments they inhabited over 166 million years ago.”

“A significant aspect of this latest excavation involves systematic sampling of the sediments associated with the footprints and those filling the footprints, which are currently under analysis to better understand the environment in which they were formed and how they have been preserved.”

“It is likely that additional footprint surfaces will be uncovered in the coming years, and a comprehensive explanation of their significance, new scientific findings, and potential future conservation of the site will be published soon.”

Source: www.sci.news

Britain postpones AI regulation as ministers aim to align with Trump administration

Posted on by
Reply

Ministers have postponed the regulation of artificial intelligence in line with the Trump administration, as reported by The Guardian.

Three labor sources revealed that the AI bill, originally planned for release before Christmas, is now expected to be delayed until summer.

The Minister had intended to issue concise invoices shortly after taking office.

The bill aims to address concerns about the potential risks of advanced AI models to humanity and to clarify the use of copyrighted materials by AI companies, differing from individual suggestions.

However, Trump’s election prompted a reconsideration of the bill. Senior labor sources said the bill was being carefully reconsidered, and there are no firm proposals yet on its content. The source added that they had aimed to pass it before Christmas, but it is now delayed until summer.

Another labor source, familiar with the legislation, mentioned that earlier drafts of the bill had been prepared months ago, but they are now being held back due to Trump’s actions, which could negatively impact British businesses. They expressed reluctance to proceed without addressing these concerns.

Trump’s actions have undermined Biden’s plans for AI regulation, including revoking an executive order aimed at ensuring technology safety and reliability. The future of the US AI Safety Institute is uncertain following the resignation of its director. Additionally, US Vice President JD Vance opposed planned European technical regulations at the AI Summit in Paris.

The UK government opted to align with the US by not signing the Paris Declaration endorsed by 66 other countries at the summit. UK Ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson reportedly proposed making the UK a major US AI investment hub.

During a December committee meeting, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle hinted that the AI bill was in advanced stages. However, Science Minister Patrick Balance stated earlier this month that there is no bill currently in place.

A government spokesperson stated, “This government remains committed to enacting legislation that will ensure the safe realization of the significant benefits of AI for years to come.

“We are actively engaged in refining our proposals for publication soon to ensure an effective approach against this rapidly evolving technology. Consultations will soon commence.”

The Minister faces pressure regarding individualized plans to allow AI companies access to online materials, including creative works for training models without requiring copyright permission.

Skip past newsletter promotions

Artists like Paul McCartney and Elton John have criticized this move, warning that it could undermine traditional copyright laws protecting artists’ livelihoods.

Source: www.theguardian.com

To build Britain as a leading AI force, we must stand up to tech giants | By John Norton

Posted on by
Reply

Sir Keir Starmer does not create visions. But last Monday, he broke a lifelong habit. Speech at University College London. It was about AI, which he sees as “the defining opportunity of our generation.” He declared that Britain was “the land of Babbage, Loveless and Turing” and, of course, “the country that birthed the modern computer and the World Wide Web.” Please mark my words. Britain will become one of the great AI superpowers. ”

It's kind of exciting. Within days of taking office, the Prime Minister invited Matt Clifford, a clever engineer from Central Casting, to think about “how to seize the opportunity in AI''. Clifford scored 50 points. AI Opportunity Action Plan Starmer fully accepted this, saying he would “take full responsibility for the British state”. He also named Clifford AI Opportunity Advisor Supervise the implementation of the plan and report directly to him. It's only a matter of time until then solar We call him “Britain's AI emperor.”

Clifford's appointment is both predictable and puzzling. That was to be expected, as he had been hanging around government for a while: Rishi Sunak, for example, hosted the AI ​​Safety Summit and approached him to set up the UK Safety Summit. AI safety unit. It's puzzling because he's already made so much money in technology. External Interests Register This will be a fairly long scroll. Several media and technology executives said to financial times They were concerned that Clifford, who had founded a successful investment firm with offices around the world, was being given too much influence over AI policy.

Damian Collins, a former Conservative technology secretary, said Clifford was “clearly a very capable person” but said he was “concerned about the balance of interests represented and how they are represented.” “It will be done,” he said. If Mr Starmer really believes that AI is a game-changing technology, it is strange that his chief adviser would be so involved in such an important game.

Collins was referring to a particularly hot topic. It is a routine copyright violation by tech companies that train AI models on the creative works of others without permission, approval, or payment. The latest revelations about this practice come from new, unredacted documents. US lawsuit This shows that the training dataset for Meta's Llama AI includes a huge database of pirated books collected from the internet.

Recommendation 24 of the plan calls for reform of the UK text and data mining regime. And the argument that “the current uncertainty around intellectual property (IP) is hindering innovation and undermining our broader ambitions for growth in AI and the creative industries” is a strong argument for many in these industries. made people furious. “There is no 'uncertainty' in the UK text and data mining regime,” he said. Creative Rights in the AI ​​Coalition. “UK copyright law does not allow text or data mining for commercial purposes without a license. The only uncertainty is who will use Britain's creative crown as training material without permission and who will That's how you got it.”

Much of Clifford's plan seems sensible (albeit expensive). For example, building a national computing infrastructure for AI. Improving university research capabilities. Train tens of thousands of new AI professionals. Promote public-private partnerships to maximize the UK's interests in 'frontier' AI. Ensure strong technical and ethical standards to oversee the development and deployment of AI.

All of this is a refreshing change from the empty fuss about 'Global Britain' of the Johnson-Snak-Truss era. The plan's stated ambition to position the UK as an “AI maker rather than an AI taker” is that the UK has real potential in this area but lacks the resources to realize that potential. This suggests a candid recognition. But making that happen means we have to face two troubling truths.

The first is that this powerful technology is controlled by a small number of giant companies, none of which are based in the UK. Their power lies not only in their capital and human resources, but also in the vast physical infrastructure of data centers they own and manage. This means that any nation wishing to operate in this field must get along with them.

Skip past newsletter promotions

The UK Government needs to do a lot in this regard. The current attitude towards business is the snobbish attitude exhibited by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, who said the Government needed to take a 'Government is' attitude.feeling humble” and uses a “national strategy” when dealing with technology giants, rather than using the threat of new legislation to influence developments in areas such as frontier artificial intelligence. In other words, the UK should treat these organizations as nation-states. Clearly, Kyle doesn't realize that appeasement is the art of being nice to the alligator in the hopes that it will eat you in the end.

Another troubling truth is that even though AI is powerful, economists like Nobel Prize winners Daron Acemoglu The general economic impact, at least in the short term, is believed to be significantly smaller than technology evangelists believe. Even worse, Economist Robert Gordon once pointed out thatgeneral-purpose technologies take a long time to have a significant impact. The message to the Prime Minister is clear. Becoming an “AI superpower” may take at least several election cycles.

Source: www.theguardian.com

New Genetic Findings Show Women’s Empowerment in Ancient Britain Before Roman Rule

Posted on by
Reply

Late Iron Age Durotrigan burial at Winterbourne Kingston, Dorset, England

bournemouth university

Genetic analysis of people buried in a 2,000-year-old cemetery in southern England supports the idea that Britain’s Celtic communities were dominated by women, finding that while men immigrated from other communities, women indicates that they stayed in their ancestral home. It lasted for centuries.

The study supports growing archaeological evidence that women held high positions in Celtic societies across Europe, including Britain, and that Mediterranean audiences often found it difficult to describe Celtic women as having power. This gives credence to the Roman accounts, which were often thought to be exaggerated.

Since 2009, Durotrygean skeletons have been unearthed during excavations of an Iron Age burial site in Winterbourne-Kingston, Dorset, England. The Durothrigeans occupied the coast of south-central England from about 100 BC to 100 AD, and probably spoke a Celtic language.

Human bones from Iron Age Britain are rare because they were destroyed by common funerary practices such as cremation and burial of bodies in bogs. However, the Durotrige buried their dead in formal cemeteries in the chalk landscape, which helped preserve them. Archaeologists have found that Durotrigan women were often buried with valuables, suggesting a high status and perhaps a female-centered society.

Lara Cassidy Doctors from Trinity College, Dublin, have now analyzed the genomes of 55 Winterbourne-Kingston Durotrigans to determine how they are related to each other and to other Iron Age peoples in Britain and Europe. I found out how they are related.

Cassidy says there were two big “aha” moments. Both were associated with mitochondrial DNA. Mitochondrial DNA is a small loop of DNA that is inherited only through the maternal line because it is passed through the egg cell and is not integrated with other DNA.

Once each individual’s mitochondrial DNA results were obtained, the researchers noticed that the same genetic sequences appeared over and over again. More than two-thirds of the individuals were found to be descended from a single maternal line, descended from a common female ancestor several centuries ago.

“At that moment, my jaw dropped,” Cassidy says. “This was a clear sign of matrilocality, a husband moving to live with his wife’s family, a pattern never before seen in prehistoric Europe.” Father locality moving into the community is the norm.

To find out whether the maternal localization pattern was a phenomenon peculiar to the Durothrigues, or whether it might have been more widespread across Britain, Cassidy uses an earlier large-scale study of Iron Age Britain and Europe. I started looking into genetic research data. Her jaw dropped again. She found that in cemeteries across Britain, most people were maternal descendants of a small number of female ancestors.

Cassidy said there is growing evidence that Iron Age women were relatively powerful. “Nativeness typically co-occurs with cultural practices that benefit women and integrate them into family support networks,” she explains.

In modern societies, matrilocality is associated with increased female involvement in food production, increased paternity uncertainty, and longer periods of male absence. In such societies, it is men who migrate to new communities as relative strangers and become dependent on their partners’ families for their livelihood.

“Although men typically still occupy formal positions of authority, women can wield significant influence through their strong matrilineal kinship networks and central role in local economies,” says Cassidy.

Cassidy’s team also compared the British DNA dataset with data from other European sites, revealing repeated waves of migration from the continent, consistent with archaeological evidence. This is because southern Britain was a hotspot of cultural and genetic exchange during the Bronze Age between 2500 BC and 1200 BC and during the Late Iron Age influx of the previously unknown Durothrigid period. showed that it was.

Previous research had suggested that Celtic languages probably arrived in Britain between 1000 BC and 875 BC, but this new discovery expands that possibility. “Celtic languages may have been introduced multiple times,” Cassidy said.

“This is very exciting new research and will revolutionize the way we understand prehistoric societies,” he says. Rachel Pope from the University of Liverpool, UK, previously found evidence of female-dominated kinship relationships in Iron Age Europe. “What we’re learning is that the nature of pre-Roman European society was actually very different.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

‘AI Integration in Britain: Labor Announces Extensive Public Implementation’

Posted on by
Reply

Billions of pounds are set to be invested in enhancing Britain’s computing capacity, with ministers unveiling plans to integrate artificial intelligence more deeply into the country’s operations, despite widespread public concerns about the repercussions of using AI.

Keir Starmer has introduced an ambitious scheme to boost AI computing power under public ownership 20-fold by 2030 and leverage AI in various applications, ranging from identifying potholes to supporting educators. The initiative is in the works.

Labour’s strategy to ‘unleash’ AI involves the Prime Minister’s personal commitment to position the UK as a ‘world leader’ in this rapidly advancing sector. The government’s proposals include potentially contentious measures to release public data to foster the growth of AI firms. This includes offering anonymized NHS data to “researchers and innovators” for training AI models. The government assures the presence of “robust privacy protections”, ensuring the data remains beyond the control of private entities.

Ministers are optimistic that AI could combat Britain’s sluggish economic expansion and generate an economic injection of up to £470 billion over the coming decade, based on their internal forecasts. The action plan signals a shift from the UK government’s earlier emphasis on addressing critical challenges.

The administration’s commitment to nurture the AI sector has been well received by tech giants like Microsoft, Anthropic, and OpenAI. Mr. Starmer emphasized the necessity for governmental support in the AI domain. Regulatory bodies are tasked with “actively backing innovation,” a stance that may clash with individuals advocating for public protection.

However, experts caution about the societal, employment, and environmental impacts of AI. Recent government research underscores that the terms “robot,” “scary,” and “worry” are top-of-mind for the average person regarding AI.

The political initiative also aims to expedite investments in new small-scale nuclear reactors to power energy-intensive technologies.

Susie Alegre, an expert in technology and human rights, mentions the Post Office scandal as a stark reminder of the perils of overreliance on technology without sufficient oversight mechanisms.

Mr. Starmer urged all cabinet members to prioritize the integration of AI, stating that AI’s transformative potential can enhance various facets of daily life. He stressed the need for swift and decisive action, recognizing the fierce global competition in the realm of AI.

Endeavors to bolster the UK’s AI hardware could position cloud computing as vital to the country’s economy, society, and security as internet access, electricity, oil, and gas. This strategic move is propelled by the belief that…

Source: www.theguardian.com

Elon Musk Angers World with Devastating Impact on Britain: The Rich ‘Pub Vendor’ Making Headlines

Posted on by
Reply

W
Keir Starmer was looking forward to a family holiday in Madeira in the New Year, but Elon Musk was set to disrupt it. The world’s richest man has been using social media to attack the Prime Minister and suggesting he may donate millions to the British Reform Party.

The controversy surrounding Mr. Musk’s comments has sparked public debate and media attention. What exactly has caused Mr. Musk’s outrage?


grooming gang

In the early hours of New Year’s Eve in London, Musk focused on the issue of “Pakistani grooming gangs,” posting a screenshot that stirred controversy.

Musk’s comments led to heated discussions on social media, with accusations and criticisms flying. His tweets on various controversial topics have garnered significant attention.

Tommy Robinson

Musk’s tweets touched on the imprisonment of Tommy Robinson and raised questions about the UK justice system. His remarks triggered a debate on the treatment of convicts in the country.

Musk’s social media activity has drawn reactions from politicians and officials, with differing opinions on the matters he raised.

British Reform

Musk’s involvement in political issues has put pressure on both the Conservative and Labour parties. His calls for reform in the UK have gained attention and sparked discussions online.

Talks of Musk potentially making donations to the Reform UK party have added fuel to the fire, with speculations swirling about his influence on political dynamics.

Economy

Political figures have reacted to Musk’s criticisms of the British economy, with varying opinions on the impact of his statements.

Musk’s relentless attacks on various issues have stirred controversy and debates, with responses from government officials and leaders.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Do Elon Musk and Reform Britain Share a Political Vision?

Posted on by
Reply

The recent gathering between Elon Musk, Nigel Farage, and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy was not just a meeting of Donald Trump supporters but a meeting of minds.

Their political agenda, developed under President Trump’s MAGA Vision, focuses on immigration, culture wars, and public sector cuts.

Farage emphasized the importance of saving the West, stating, “We only have one chance. Together, we can achieve great things.”

Speculation arose about Musk potentially donating up to $100m to the reforms, despite potential objections from voters.

A ban on wealthy foreigners donating to British political parties received 55% support, with 66% saying Musk should not have any influence on British politics.

Although they share ideological similarities, the public opinion on Musk’s influence remains divided.

Immigration

Musk’s stance on U.S. immigration aligns with the reformers’ goals, emphasizing the need for secure borders and boosting legal immigration to meet labor demands in the tech industry.

Farage and Reform prioritize freezing “non-essential” immigration and deporting illegal immigrants, echoing Musk’s concerns.

Shrinking Government

Musk’s anti-government sentiments stem from regulatory challenges in his industries and support from Trump to slash the U.S. federal budget.

Farage endorses Musk’s efforts in reducing public sector size, aligning with Reform’s vision for the UK.

Political science professor Tim Bale highlights Musk’s appeal to disruptors like Reform, citing their shared values in shaking up the establishment.

Rights and “Woke War”

Musk’s criticisms of woke culture and diversity regulations resonate with Reform’s agenda to combat “transgender ideology” and abolish equality provisions.

Support for Musk’s anti-woke stance aligns with Reform’s cultural war priorities.

Net Zero

Musk’s environmental credentials contrast with Reform’s rollback of eco-friendly policies, advocating for revoking the UK’s net zero target and boosting oil and gas licenses.

While Musk prioritizes environmental concerns, Reform focuses on economic implications of green policies.

Russia

Musk’s shifting views on Ukraine, from supporting to more ambiguous stances, reflect his complex relations with geopolitical issues.

Farage’s past remarks on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and criticisms of NATO align with Musk’s involvement in aiding Ukraine through Starlink.

Both Musk and Farage’s views on Russia highlight their divergent paths in addressing international conflicts.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Longest-Lasting Snow Patch in Britain Disappears for the Fourth Consecutive Year

Posted on by
Reply

overview

  • For the fourth year in a row, the snow has melted in parts of Scotland known for remaining snowy all year round.
  • This is the 10th time in more than three centuries that it has disappeared.
  • Such snowflakes could serve as a harbinger of the broader effects of climate change.

A patch of snow in the Scottish Highlands called the Sphinx typically remains all year round and remains frozen throughout the summer. But it has melted away four years in a row, making it only the tenth time in more than three centuries that it has happened.

The Sphinx that flanks Brelliach, Britain's third highest mountain, has historically been known to persist even after most of the snow and ice has disappeared each year on Scotland's Cairngorm Mountains, making it historically the longest-lasting snow in Britain. It was considered a zone. range.

But by September, like every year since 2021, this patch completely melted away. By comparison, the Sphinx disappeared only three times in the 20th century.

Experts say such snowy areas tend to be sensitive to small fluctuations in temperature, which could serve as a harbinger of the broader effects of climate change. The Sphinx's melting could therefore provide clues to how climate change is affecting the Scottish Highlands, the rest of Scotland and the world.

Grant Moir, chief executive of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “The fact that the Sphinx is melting for the fourth year in a row is a good indicator of these changes.” “Climate change has always been relatively high on the agenda for us as a national park and is increasingly impacting the Highlands. We can learn from the Sphinx about the changes that are happening to our climate. can.”

The Sphinx is located in Brelliach, part of the Cairngorm Mountains in Scotland.
climate center

In addition to melting snow, highlands experience frequent storms and floods interspersed with long periods of dry weather, increasing the risk of wildfires, Moir said.

Changes in snow cover across the plateau affect mountain ecosystems by altering the natural hydrological cycle in which snow gradually melts from the mountains and flows into streams.

“It's really impacting things like salmon spawning areas and the river as a whole,” Moir said. “We need to mitigate some of these impacts and we need to think about what we can do to adapt to changing patterns.”

He added that Cairngorms Park was also home to some of the UK's most endangered species.

Its ripple effects extend beyond the natural environment. The national park is home to about 18,000 people and is visited by about 2 million people each year, Moir said. However, he said severe storms and flooding could displace residents, cause millions of pounds of damage and disrupt the region's valuable tourism industry.

“It's always been important to try to strike the right balance to ensure that nature and people can thrive within the national park,” Moir said. “What we are trying to do is make sure we invest in things that are good for nature, biodiversity and people.”

Records show that the Sphinx's snow belt has melted only 10 times in more than 300 years.
climate center

Ian Cameron, author of The Vanishing Ice: Diaries of a Scottish Snow Hunter, has spent more than 25 years studying snow in the hills and mountains of Scotland. Every year he publishes his findings on the region's snow cover in the British Meteorological Society's annual report.

Prime Minister David Cameron wrote last year that the Sphinx's fate was a story with “little prospect of a happy ending”.

“There is little doubt that we are witnessing a change in the language used to describe snow in Scotland.” he wrote. “In the past, the adjective that best described the Sphinx was 'permanent,' but that had to be changed to 'semi-permanent,' then 'permanent,' and then 'semi-permanent.' But even this descriptor will not be able to withstand the pressure exerted by continued disappearances. We are now witnessing an era where patches of snow may remain only occasionally. ”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Under Roman rule, Britain enjoyed centuries of economic prosperity.

Posted on by
Reply

A pile of Roman gold coins discovered beneath the floor of a Roman house in Corbridge, England

World History Archives/Alamy

After the Romans conquered Britain in AD 43, they brought with them technologies and laws that led to centuries of economic growth once thought to be limited to modern industrial societies, according to an analysis of thousands of archaeological finds from the period.

“In about 350 years, about two and a half years [fold] “Improved productivity per person.” Rob Weisman At Cambridge University.

Wiseman says the ancient world long believed that economic growth depended on increases in population and resources — for example, increasing food production required more land and more agricultural workers — a type of growth known as extensive growth.

In contrast, economic growth today is driven primarily by increases in productivity, or intensive growth: for example, mechanization and improved plant and animal breeding enable us to produce more food from the same amount of land with fewer workers.

Several recent studies have challenged the idea that rapid growth only occurred after the Industrial Revolution began, which led Wiseman and his colleagues to look at growth in Roman Britain from 43 to 400 AD.

Wiseman says the team’s research was made possible by British laws that require archaeological investigations when sites are developed. “As a result, tens of thousands of archaeological excavations have been carried out in this country, and the data is available to the public.”

By looking at how the number of buildings changed over time, the researchers were able to get a sense of how the population of Roman Britain grew — and there’s a strong relationship between the number of buildings and population size, Wiseman says.

To get a sense of economic growth, the team looked at three metrics: First, the size of buildings rather than the number of buildings: As people get wealthier, they build bigger homes, Wiseman said.

Another measure is the number of lost coins found at the excavation site: “That fell through the floorboards, that got lost in the bathroom, that sort of thing,” he says.

The idea is that the more coins there are in circulation, the more likely they are to be lost. The team didn’t count hidden hoards of coins because they reflect instability, not growth.

The third criterion is the ratio of cruder pottery, such as cooking and storing pots, to more ornate pottery, such as decorative plates. Economic growth requires people to interact more and socialize more, which means “showing off” when guests are present, Wiseman says.

Based on these indicators, the team found that economic growth exceeded what would be expected from population growth alone. They estimate that per capita growth was about 0.5% between 150 and 250 AD, slowing to about 0.3% between 250 and 400 AD.

“What we’ve been able to show is that there was indeed rapid growth after the Romans arrived,” Wiseman says. The rate of growth, rather than the type of growth, is likely what distinguishes the modern world from the ancient world, he says.

Researchers believe this growth was driven by factors such as roads and ports built by the Romans, laws they introduced that made trade safer, and technology such as more advanced flour mills and animal breeds suited to farming.

The period of rapid growth between AD 150 and 250 could have been the result of Britain catching up with the rest of the Roman world, Wiseman says: “It went from being a small, poorly-connected tribal society to a global economy.”

What’s not clear is whether this economic growth made people happier or healthier. “The fact that productivity rose doesn’t mean that invaded, colonized Britons were better off under the Roman Empire,” Wiseman says. “That’s an open question.”

To investigate this, researchers now plan to examine human remains to determine things like how long people lived.

“I believe they are right, and there was certainly intensive growth in Roman Britain.” Alain Bresson At the University of Chicago, Illinois.

“Many archaeologists have noted the compelling evidence of economic growth in Roman Britain, but this paper adds a welcome formal theoretical dimension to the debate.” Ian Morris At Stanford University, California.

But Morris suspects that the lower average growth rate from A.D. 250 to 400 actually reflected a period of higher growth that declined sharply as the Roman Empire began to collapse. Further research could help find the answer, he says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

The prehistoric gliding reptile of Britain.

Posted on by
Reply

The gliding-winged reptile called Queneosaurus lived in what is now the Mendip Hills in Somerset, England, during the Triassic period, about 210 million years ago.

Queneosaurus latus (right) and Queneosuchus latissimus (left). Image credit: Nobu Tamura http://spinops.blogspot.com.

Queneosaurus Although they resembled lizards, they were more closely related to crocodiles and dinosaur ancestors.

It was a small animal that could fit in the palm of your hand.

There were two species: Queneosaurus latus and Queneosuchus latissimus.

One had broad wings, the other short wings, made of a layer of skin stretched over elongated transverse ribs, which allowed it to swoop from tree to tree.

Like a modern flying lizard draco Hailing from Southeast Asia, they are likely to roam the ground or climb trees in search of insect prey.

When startled or when they saw a tasty insect flying by, they could fly into the air and land safely 10 meters away.

The discovery was made by Mike Cawthorn, a student at the University of Bristol, and his colleagues.

The authors examined a large number of reptile fossils taken from three limestone quarries: Enborough, Butscombe and Highcroft. These quarries were located on the largest subtropical island at the time, Mendip Paleo Island.

In addition to Queneosaurus latus and Queneosuchus latissimusthey recorded the existence of Trilophosaurus, a reptile with complex teeth. Variodence and aquatic life Pachystropheus It probably lived a bit like modern otters, eating shrimp and small fish.

These creatures fell or their bones were washed away into caves and limestone cracks.

“The beasts were all small. We were hoping to find dinosaur bones or even isolated teeth, but in fact we found everything but dinosaurs,” Cawthorn said.

“The collections I studied were created in the 1940s and 1950s, when the quarries were still active, and paleontologists could visit to see fresh rock surfaces and talk to the quarrymen. is completed.”

Professor Mike Benton, from the University of Bristol, said: “It took a huge amount of effort to identify the fossil bones, most of which were separate and not part of the skeleton.”

“But we have a lot of comparative material and Mike Cawthorn was able to compare the isolated jaw and other bones with more complete specimens from other sites around Bristol.”

“He showed that the ancient Mendip islands, some 30km long, stretching from Frome in the east to Weston-super-Mare in the west, were home to a wide variety of small reptiles that fed on plants and insects.”

“He didn’t find any dinosaur bones, but dinosaur bones have been found elsewhere in the same geological period around Bristol, so dinosaur bones may have been there.”

During the Late Triassic period, 200 million years ago, the area around Bristol was an archipelago of small islands in a warm subtropical sea.

“These bones were collected in the 1940s and 1950s by some of the great fossil finders, including Tom Fry, an amateur collector at the University of Bristol, who often cycled to the quarry and picked up heavy stones. “They came home with bags of stuff,” said Dr David from the University of Bristol. white side.

“Other collectors were Walter Kuehne, a talented German researcher who was imprisoned in Britain during World War II, and Pamela L. Robinson of University College London.”

“They donated the specimens to the Natural History Museum in London and the Geology Collection at the University of Bristol.”

team's paper Published in Proceedings of the Association of Geologists.

_____

Michael Cawthorn other. A modern Triassic terrestrial microvertebrate assemblage from caves at Emborough Quarry, Batscombe Quarry and Hycroft Quarry on the Old Islands of Mendip, south-west England. Proceedings of the Association of Geologists, published online on January 20, 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2023.12.003

Source: www.sci.news

Largest Mobile Company in Britain Files £3bn Lawsuit for Overcharging Loyal Customers | UK News

Posted on by
Reply

Vodafone, EE, Three and O2 are facing a class action lawsuit worth “over £3 billion” for allegedly using their market power to overcharge up to 28.2 million mobile phone contracts in the UK.

Four major network operators are accused of penalizing loyal customers, customers who pay more for the same service than new customers.

Many contracts provide for repaying the price of the smartphone in stages over two to three years, but the company reportedly did not reduce the monthly fee once the device was paid for.

The suit, brought by former Citizens Advice executive Justin Gutman and law firm Charles Lyndon, is seeking at least £3.285 billion in damages.

Mr Gutmann claimed that if successful, affected consumers could receive up to £1,823 each.

The class action was filed at the Competition Appeal Court in London.

All eligible consumers will automatically be included in your bill free of charge unless you follow specific opt-out steps.

This complaint follows a ‘super complaint’ made by Citizens Advice to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in September 2018, following the CMA’s finding that: You paid for the device at the end of the minimum contract period.

“This is unfair and it has to stop.”

read more:
Can your smartphone detect how drunk you are?
France threatens to ban iPhone 12
Inside the UK’s largest mobile phone recycling facility

Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player

Apple changes connector again

Mr Gutmann said: “I am bringing this class action because these four mobile phone companies have systematically exploited millions of loyal customers across the UK through loyalty penalties, leaving hard-working people and their families out of pocket. “We believe that more than £3 billion has been extracted from the public.” .

“These companies continued to take advantage of their customers despite the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19, and now the cost of living crisis. It’s time to hold them accountable.”

A spokesperson for O2 said: “To date, we have not been able to contact our legal team regarding this allegation. However, 10 years ago we entered into a separation agreement that automatically and completely reduces our customers’ bills. We’re proud to be the first provider to start.” I have finished paying my mobile phone bill.

“We have long called for an end to ‘smartphone fraud’ and for other mobile phone carriers to stop the egregious practice of charging customers for phones they already own. Ta.”

An EE spokesperson said: “We strongly oppose the speculative claims being brought against us. EE has a wide range of tariffs and a robust process for dealing with contract termination notices.” Stated.

“The UK mobile market is highly competitive, with pricing among the lowest in all of Europe.”

Vodafone said: “This matter has only recently come to our attention and we do not yet have sufficient details for our legal team to assess.”

Source: news.sky.com