Ameenah Gurib-Fakim: Humble plants that hide surprising secrets

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In this intriguing talk, biologist Ameenah Gurib-Fakim introduces us to rare plant species from isolated islands and regions of Africa. Meet the shape-shifting benjoin; the baume de l’ile plate, which might offer a new treatment for asthma; and the iconic baobab tree, which could hold the key to the future of food. Plus: monkey apples.... Read More إقرأ المزيد | Share it now!

Alessandra Orofino: It’s our city. Let’s fix it

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Too often, people feel checked out of politics — even at the level of their own city. But urban activist Alessandra Orofino thinks that can change, using a mix of tech and old-fashioned human connection. Sharing examples from her hometown of Rio, she says: “It is up to us to decide whether we want schools or parking lots, recycling projects or construction sites, cars or buses, loneliness or solidarity.”... Read More إقرأ المزيد | Share it now!

In an age of distraction, find your stillness (Book trailer)

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From travel writer Pico Iyer, “The Art of Stillness” considers the unexpected adventure of going nowhere. New from TED Books.
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Stillness-Adventures-Nowhere/dp/1476784728
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-art-of-stillness-pico-iyer/1119565859?ean=9781476784724
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Pico_Iyer_The_Art_of_Stillness?id=d99jAwAAQBAJ
IndieBound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781476784724
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-art-of-stillness/id866576107?mt=11... Read More إقرأ المزيد | Share it now!

Jeremy Heimans: What new power looks like

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We can see the power of distributed, crowd-sourced business models every day — witness Uber, Kickstarter, Airbnb. But veteran online activist Jeremy Heimans asks: When does that kind of “new power” start to work in politics? His surprising answer: Sooner than you think. It’s a bold argument about the future of politics and power; watch and see if you agree.... Read More إقرأ المزيد | Share it now!

Debra Jarvis: Yes, I survived cancer. But that doesn’t define me

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Debra Jarvis had worked as a hospital chaplain for nearly 30 years when she was diagnosed with cancer. And she learned quite a bit as a patient. In a witty, daring talk, she explains how the identity of “cancer survivor” can feel static. She asks us all to claim our hardest experiences, while giving ourselves room to grow and evolve.... Read More إقرأ المزيد | Share it now!