This Deep Dive examines the recently publish book, "Technology at a Crossroads: Essays on IT in A Twilight Age" by Dr. Ahmed Bouzid & Dr. Weiye Ma. The book offers a collection of essays exploring the multifaceted impacts of modern technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the evolution of the web. The authors challenge common narratives around AI, critiquing both techno-optimism and dystopian fears, instead advocating for a balanced and critical engagement with technological advancements. Topics range from the transformative potential of Generative AI in work and leadership, to concerns about advertising's pervasive influence and the challenges facing democracy in a data-driven world. The book also surveys philosophical perspectives on AI, examines the addictive nature of digital interfaces, and discusses the future of human-machine interaction, ultimately urging readers to thoughtfully consider technology's role in shaping society.

The book is available on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXF7J197

The academic paper explores the efficacy of plant-derived polysaccharides, specifically from fenugreek and okra, as nontoxic and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional synthetic polymers for removing microplastics from various water sources. The research details the extraction and characterization of these natural polymers, followed by bench-scale experiments conducted on simulated, groundwater, freshwater, and ocean water samples. Utilizing optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and ζ-potential measurements, the study assesses the microplastic removal efficiency and confirms a bridging mechanism for flocculation. The findings consistently demonstrate that these plant-based polysaccharides outperform commercial polyacrylamide in microplastic removal, suggesting a promising sustainable solution for water treatment.