In this week’s roundup, our writers examine the many pressures reshaping American life—from artificial intelligence and regulation to civil rights and public health policy.

This week, Matthew B. Crawford writes about the emergence of artificial intelligence and its transformation of social dynamics, posing a risk to the “knowledge class.” Ultimately, Crawford calls for reclaiming human distinctiveness and the guardian of human judgment and potential.

In a pair of articles, Allen Gindler interprets Trump’s announcement regarding “tiny cars” as a significant acknowledgment that U.S. regulations have been hindering the development of micro-vehicles—not consumer preferences. Gindler argues this action is therefore a reduction of bureaucratic authority rather than a presidential “endorsement.” Additionally, the recent interest rate reduction by the Federal Reserve reveals a complex web of unfavorable tradeoffs.

On the latest episode of The Independent, Scott welcomes back Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division in the Department of Justice. They discuss the work being done on civil rights and freedom in America today.

Lastly, Lloyd Billingsley writes about the rebuke of California’s kratom ban by current CDC Administrator Dr. Robert Redfield, who urges evidence-based policy over outdated, fear-driven prohibitions.

Enjoy.

Jonathan Hofer
Managing Editor