In 2009, Michael Specter wrote about synthetic biology and the stunningly complex knowledge of basic elements that the field requires. “[Scientists] are attempting to reconfigure the metabolic pathways of cells to perform entirely new functions, such as manufacturing chemicals and drugs,” he explained. “Eventually, they intend to construct genes—and new forms of life—from scratch.” Budding synthetic biologists—and average folks whose knowledge of the periodic table stopped with sophomore-year chemistry—would be wise to check out NOVA Elements, a new app from PBS that explains why the periodic table has its specific shape, what gives each element its properties, and how the elements combine to do what they do. The app also offers “Essential Elements,” an element-building game hosted by David Pogue, of the Times, and a two-hour NOVA video, “Hunting the Elements.”
Goings On
What we’re watching, listening to, and doing this week, online, in N.Y.C., and beyond. Paid subscribers also receive book picks.
Annals of Artificial Intelligence
Can an A.I. Make Plans?
Today’s systems struggle to imagine the future—but that may soon change.
By Cal Newport
Shouts & Murmurs
Melanie Ann Donoghue and Wordle Wed
The bride worried, “Will people judge me for dating someone I met online, who’s only capable of communicating through letters that Times readers type onto a gridlike interface?”
By Cora Frazier
Annals of Artificial Intelligence
How to Picture A.I.
To understand its strengths and limitations, we may need to adopt a new perspective.
By Jaron Lanier
Annals of Medicine
The Fight Over I.V.F. Is Only Beginning
The fertility treatment has wide support, even among Republican voters, but it is at odds with key elements in the pro-life movement.
By Jessica Winter