Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, dives into Binyamin Netanyahu's groundbreaking testimony as the first Israeli prime minister to stand trial. He highlights the political turmoil surrounding Netanyahu amid major national crises and protests, as the defense claims a 'witch hunt.' The conversation also critiques the actual value of master's degrees in today’s job market, questioning if they truly benefit graduates. To wrap up, the team shares their must-read book recommendations for 2024, covering diverse themes and engaging narratives.
Binyamin Netanyahu's trial as the first Israeli prime minister to testify reflects deepening political turmoil and public dissent in Israel.
Research indicates that a significant portion of master's degrees offers minimal financial benefits, highlighting the precarious value of advanced education.
Deep dives
Challenges of Scaling AI Across Environments
Deploying AI technology can be seamless with flexible solutions like WatsonX, which allows organizations to utilize AI in diverse settings. For instance, AI can support pilots in flight navigation, automate tasks for employees in cloud environments, and give designers access to proprietary data. Its adaptability extends to edge computing, where remote banking employees can assist customers effectively. By facilitating AI's integration anywhere, WatsonX presents a comprehensive strategy for organizations looking to scale their AI capabilities.
Financial Returns on Master's Degrees
Research reveals that obtaining a master's degree may not significantly enhance earning potential, and in some cases, it can even be detrimental. In the United States, about 40% of master's programs reportedly offer little to no financial return on investment, as individuals with advanced degrees often come from backgrounds that predispose them to higher earnings regardless of further education. This trend is further evidenced in the UK, where data indicates that by age 35, a master's degree may have a negligible effect on a graduate's earnings. The rising costs of postgraduate education and a government-supported loan system exacerbate the issue, compelling students to pursue advanced degrees without ensuring substantial benefits.
Political Implications of Netanyahu's Legal Battles
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ongoing trial has sparked significant political controversy both within the courtroom and the public sphere. Netanyahu faces multiple charges, including bribery and fraud, stemming from accusations of accepting gifts from wealthy benefactors and seeking favorable media treatment in exchange for regulatory changes. As he testifies in defense of his actions, this trial has become a focal point of public discontent amid ongoing protests and calls for resignation. The intertwining of Netanyahu's legal struggles with broader socio-political narratives illustrates the multifaceted challenges he faces amid a complex national landscape, including conflicts in Gaza and regional tensions.
For five years the prospect of a criminal prosecution has loomed over Binyamin Netanyahu. Today he becomes the first Israeli prime minister to testify as a defendant. A shocking fraction of master’s degrees confer no financial benefit—and may even leave degree-holders worse off (10:43). And our staff share their picks for the best books of 2024 (16:58).