New & Noteworthy List for June 2025

Examines artificial intelligence (AI) from broad practical, legal, and policy perspectives. Explores the impact of AI on society and how to use the technology appropriately as well as identify policies to regulate it and manage risk. Discusses several functional categories of AI, including generative; decision-making; personal identification; military; physician action; and whether AI should have legal rights.

Discusses the contributions of the public service workforce to the essential business of the federal government in a collection of essays. Highlights the behind-the-scenes work of federal employees, such as an Internal Revenue Service cybercrime specialist "straight out of a crime thriller" along with exemplary employees at the Bureau of Labor Statistics; National Aeronautics and Space Administration; National Archives; National Cemetery Administration; Department of Justice; Department of Veterans Affairs; and the Food and Drug Administration.

Asserts that modern day America resembles a vetocracy, a gridlocked system of government where anyone can stifle effective change. Argues conservatives are partially to blame but 20th century progressive policies intended to rein in government activity have also impeded action on such current crises as housing shortages, climate emergencies, failing infrastructure and social programs, and more. Discusses what progressives must do to reestablish government efficiency and productivity and in turn restore Americans’ confidence in democracy and how their country is governed.

Explores the history of the radioactive element uranium, including its use in art; medicine; and as an essential component of nuclear energy. Presents scientific narratives along with often-forgotten stories to highlight uranium’s negative and positive effects as well as its broad impact on society. Argues nuclear energy and its emerging innovations could contribute significantly to electricity demand, grid stability, and the global energy transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Traces the history of America’s housing crisis, from the rise of exclusionary zoning in the early 20th century and the ill-fated "urban renewal" movement of the 1950s to the post-COVID uptick in remote work and the advent of artificial intelligence. Posits that the disparate causes of the housing shortage are all rooted in the degradation of private property rights. Suggests solutions such as environmental regulation reform, changes to zoning policies, streamlined permitting, and the elimination of rent control.