TED Talks Daily

’Gbenga Sesan, a tech inclusionist and founder of Paradigm Initiative, passionately discusses the pressing need for equitable tech access across Africa. He shares personal stories of growing up in Nigeria, highlighting the obstacles faced in accessing technology. Sesan stresses that technology alone won't solve centuries of inequality; comprehensive training and support are crucial. Through his work, he envisions transforming lives and bridging the digital divide, empowering young people to seize life-changing opportunities.

Discover how community leaders are tackling the climate crisis with sustainable housing solutions for under-resourced neighborhoods. Hear about the challenges faced by marginalized communities and their innovative responses, like solar-powered homes. Explore the grassroots initiatives in Miami addressing increased tidal flooding and fostering affordable housing. It's a powerful discussion about merging social justice with environmental action and working together for change.

Matt Langione, a quantum advocate, dives into the transformative world of quantum computers. He reveals how these machines could tackle urgent global issues, from vaccine development to financial risk assessment, at lightning speed. Langione discusses the limitations of traditional supercomputers and the revolutionary potential of quantum technology in industries like healthcare and banking. He urges stakeholders to invest now to harness the significant societal benefits that quantum computing promises.

Concrete is the second most-used substance on Earth and a major contributor to carbon emissions. In this discussion, a researcher introduces LC3, a revolutionary type of cement that could reduce emissions by 40% if adopted widely. The conversation highlights innovative techniques to create more sustainable concrete that not only cuts down environmental impact but also enhances strength and durability. This groundbreaking approach showcases how technology can reshape construction practices for a greener future.

Angela Francis, a passionate climate advocate and economist, shares her vision of a green economy that directly benefits people's everyday lives. She argues that prioritizing financial incentives can effectively motivate sustainable practices. By linking environmental initiatives with public health and economic stability, she emphasizes inclusive conversations that resonate with various communities. Francis highlights the necessity for supportive policies that address the needs of vulnerable populations and advocates for community engagement as a pathway to a sustainable future.

Juan Enriquez, a futurist exploring technology and ethics, dives into how tech shapes our moral compass. He offers a historical perspective, revealing past societal norms like human sacrifice and how technological progress can lead to more ethical behavior today. Enriquez discusses the shift in morality spurred by social media, urging open dialogue in a polarized world. He highlights how evolving technologies, including synthetic meats, challenge our values and advocate for compassion as we navigate this complex moral landscape.

Kim Gorgens, a neuropsychologist, dives into the startling link between brain injuries and criminal behavior. She reveals that a staggering 50-80% of people in the US criminal justice system have experienced traumatic brain injuries, compared to less than 5% in the general public. Gorgens discusses how these injuries can alter behavior, particularly in women affected by interpersonal violence. She advocates for a more compassionate justice system that addresses these underlying issues, promoting effective rehabilitation and safer communities.

Jack Dangermond, a pioneer in GIS technology and head of Esri, discusses the revolutionary concept of a geospatial nervous system. He explains how a connected network of maps can enhance decision-making across urban planning, environmental management, and social equity. The conversation highlights the power of integrated geospatial data to identify patterns and visualize trends, ultimately transforming the way we tackle global challenges. Dangermond also champions young entrepreneurs to embrace sustainability over profit in their innovations.

Performance psychologist Jessica Woods, known for her expertise in emotional regulation, explores the prickly nature of difficult emotions. She likens tough feelings to cactus spikes that can hurt if not managed. Woods shares four key strategies to enhance self-awareness and emotional control, preventing emotional contagion in personal and professional situations. Drawing on insights from military experiences and personal anecdotes, she emphasizes cognitive reappraisal and acceptance as tools for fostering strong relationships and peak performance.

Tawanda Kanhema is a visionary photographer who bravely mapped 3,000 miles of uncharted regions in Zimbabwe, Namibia, and northern Canada. He highlights the dire consequences of missing maps, especially during natural disasters, and emphasizes how accurate mapping can transform communities. Tawanda discusses the power of high-resolution mapping technology, which enhances urban planning and fosters collaboration. His inspiring journey encourages everyone to contribute to a more connected world, ensuring that no area remains forgotten.