Technology has the potential to transform the Arab world. In some places it is already doing so. In others, its use has barely started. Throughout, it will bring huge changes over the next few years – in the way that people live and in the lives they can expect to lead in the future. By…

Nanoscience, the science of tiny things, is leading to some extraordinary developments and applications. Many people believe that nanotechnology is the next big thing. But its business application is only just beginning. Mildred Dresselhaus explains what it is and where it is heading – Nanotechnology deals with objects on the nanometre size scale, typically more…

Sequencing the human genome is not an end in itself, says Francis Collins. It is just the start of a revolution in genomics and genetics that will change the face of medicine in the 21st century – For nearly 100 years the medical community has been aware of heredity’s powerful role in human health and…

Now that the technology bubble has burst, what does the future hold for the financing of technological innovation? What will investors look for now? Which types of technology will benefit? And which will suffer? Geoffrey Moore, a Silicon Valley-based technology entrepreneur and investor, offers some insights. – During the late 1990s it seemed as if…

For computing to achieve its full potential – and to enrich the daily lives of people and businesses everywhere – it must first be made as secure and reliable as it can be, says Bill Gates. – Not so long ago, most people paid little attention to cybercrime. Malicious hackers, hi-tech bank robbers and identity…

The implementation and survival of democracy in Latin America – often against heavy odds – has been the region’s biggest success over the past 20 years. But it is under severe pressure. More reform is necessary if the system’s frailties are to be overcome. By Sudip Roy – The Irish playwright and wit, Oscar Wilde,…

Relations between the US and Europe have become strained in the past year on issues ranging from the Middle East to trade protectionism, defence policies to diplomacy, terrorism to international treaties. But for all the differences – real and imagined – there is still more that unites than divides the two continents. By Charles Grant…

Why are we so bad at forecasting the course of events? Why do bad ideas seem to catch on much more quickly than good ones? What events and developments should we be keeping an eye on that are perhaps not dominating the headlines right now? Lance Knobel takes a look in the crystal ball and…

Enlargement of the EU is a key step towards the unification of Europe as a whole, says Thomas Klestil, federal president of Austria. But the greater challenge for Europe is to develop a stronger role in international politics and to learn to speak with one voice. – With the accession of 10 mostly central European…

Corporate scandals in the United States have created an opportunity for European business to regain the upper hand after years of being in thrall to the American approach, says Bertrand Collomb. – Society and business in Europe are traditionally based on dialogue and a common commitment to long-term progress. European governments have been strongly attached…