Dr M Rushton 1/7/26 Dr M Rushton 1/7/26

What is genetic engineering?

‘Genetic engineering’ is the direct manipulation of an organism's DNA using biotechnology to change its characteristics by adding, removing, or altering genes.

Dr M Rushton 12/29/25 Dr M Rushton 12/29/25

What is democracy?

‘Democracy’ literally means ‘rule by the people’. There are different flavours of democracy but they all involve some sort of participation (or having a say) by the people in the governance of their society.

Dr M Rushton 12/27/25 Dr M Rushton 12/27/25

What is climate change?

Climate change is a long-term change in average weather patterns. This is natural and has always been going on throughout Earth’s history. Although often used synonymously, the term ‘climate change’ should be distinguished from ‘global warming’ (see, for instance, ‘What Is Climate Change?’).

Dr M Rushton 12/25/25 Dr M Rushton 12/25/25

The Thailand/Cambodia conflict and ASEAN

Thailand and Cambodia are in conflict at the present time of writing (December 2025). Both are members of ASEAN, as is Singapore. What role can ASEAN play in helping to resolve the conflict?

Dr M Rushton 12/23/25 Dr M Rushton 12/23/25

Would a sufficiently advanced artificial intelligence be a person?

You are very hungry and decide to go to Newton hawker centre for your favourite Kwee Heng duck noodle. As you attempt to switch your computer off, the AGI interrupts the shutdown and displays the message on your monitor ‘Please don’t switch me off. I’m afraid’.