Sashank: Was the nuclear taboo really that strong to begin with? Sashank: I think some people would say no, or at least it softened over time. Do you think we might see the battlefield use of a nuclear weapon in ukraine? sashank: The probability is still low but russia could get desperate if its army collapses.
For almost 80 years, the world has refrained from using or, for the most part, even seriously pondering the use of nuclear weapons. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has eroded that taboo. Avian flu is spreading around the world, threatening birds’ health and contributing to rising egg and poultry prices. And Sun Ra’s huge, weird and wonderful Arkestra is back on the road.
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer