The Best is Yet To be, or Not to be? Flashcards
What are megaprojects?
Large-scale, complex projects often high-cost, involving significant investment, resources, and time, impacting the economy, environment, and society.
What is the National Broadband Network (NBN) in Australia?
A project declared ‘built and fully operational’ in December 2020, connecting over 11.86 million premises, though many still lack the minimum 25Mbps speed.
What were the initial plans for Australia’s NBN?
Initially planned as a fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) network but shifted to a multi-technology mix approach to reduce costs.
What are some challenges faced by the NBN?
- High wholesale charges affecting retail prices
- Competition from emerging 5G networks
- Connectivity issues in remote areas
What is a significant issue with Canada’s high-speed rail?
Canada is the only G7 nation without high-speed rail, facing high costs and political inaction despite studies highlighting benefits.
What are some major barriers to high-speed rail in Canada?
- Freight-owned tracks limiting passenger train speeds
- Low population density affecting demand
- Political pressure from cities without stops
What is the ‘Iron Law’ by Bent Flyvbjerg?
Most megaprojects are over budget, over time, and 9 out of 10 face cost overruns and delays.
What are common pitfalls in megaprojects?
- Overestimation of benefits
- Underestimation of costs
- Vulnerability to economic and technological shifts
What is a psychological factor driving megaprojects?
Superlatives attract politicians, leading to continued support even during financial crises.
What alternative urban planning methods were suggested?
- Light rail expansion
- Bus service improvements
- Street reorganization
What is the Suramadu Bridge project in Indonesia?
A megaproject aimed at improving connectivity between Surabaya and Madura, opened in June 2009 after delays.
What were some community impacts of the Suramadu Bridge?
- Job creation was limited for locals
- Environmental concerns due to construction
- Unfulfilled compensation for affected fishermen
What factors influenced local perceptions of the Suramadu Bridge?
- Immaterial benefits (e.g., pride)
- Material benefits
- Specific job opportunities
What is the significance of immaterial benefits in megaprojects?
Immaterial benefits, such as pride and identity, often outweigh material benefits in shaping local perceptions.
What does the research suggest about local perceptions of megaprojects?
Understanding local perspectives is crucial for assessing the success and community satisfaction of megaprojects.
What is the relationship between megaprojects and urban identity?
Megaprojects can create a sense of pride and new identity for cities, influencing residents’ daily lives.
True or False: Most megaprojects are completed on time and within budget.
False
Fill in the blank: Megaprojects often lead to _______ due to unforeseen complications and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
cost overruns
What was a notable example of a megaproject failure?
The Bertha tunnel project in Seattle, which faced significant delays and cost overruns.
What is a consequence of political pressure in megaproject planning?
Cities left without stops may protest, complicating project designs and timelines.
What did the research on the Suramadu Bridge reveal about local sentiments?
Most respondents felt informed and recognized personal benefits despite some negative impacts.
What were the findings about public perception during different stages of megaprojects?
Perceptions often shift from optimism in planning to frustration during construction, and acceptance during usage.
What is a key takeaway regarding urban planning and megaprojects?
Smaller, well-planned alternatives are often overlooked in favor of larger megaprojects.
What is the significance of understanding local people’s perceptions in assessing megaproject impacts?
It highlights that urban identity and intangible benefits can be strongly felt despite tangible drawbacks.
This suggests that inclusive development should consider community sentiment.
Which megaprojects are linked to creating pride and a new identity for cities?
- Taipei Mass Rapid Transit
- Various projects in Melbourne
These projects contribute to residents’ pride and affect their daily lives.
What critical aspect should future research on megaprojects focus on?
How cultural factors influence perceptions of megaprojects.
This is particularly important in countries with varying social structures.
What was the original budget for the Big Dig project?
$2.6 billion.
The final cost ballooned to about $24 billion.
What were the main goals of the Big Dig infrastructure project?
- Reduce traffic congestion
- Improve air quality
- Transform the city’s waterfront
These goals were ultimately achieved despite significant challenges.
What were some of the issues faced during the Big Dig project?
- Delays
- Cost overruns
- Design flaws
- Safety concerns
- Scandals involving contractors
The project became notorious for these issues.
What was the timeline for the Big Dig project?
- Planning: 1982
- Construction: 1991-2006
- Completion: 2007
This extended timeline reflects the complexity of the project.
What was the traffic situation on the Central Artery in Boston by the 1990s?
190,000 vehicles per day.
This significant increase led to major congestion issues.
What was the purpose of the Ted Williams Tunnel?
To connect I-90 to Logan Airport.
It was part of the overall redesign of Boston’s highway network.
What was the impact of the Big Dig on property values?
Added $732 million in property value.
It opened space for the Seaport District, leading to significant investments.
What is the Channel Tunnel and when was it completed?
A rail tunnel connecting the UK and France, completed in 1994.
It significantly improved travel between the two countries.
What major issue arose related to the Channel Tunnel in 2015?
The problem of migrants attempting to sneak into the UK.
This situation led to heightened security measures.
What is the planned travel speed for the California High-Speed Rail?
Up to 220 mph (350 km/h).
It aims to be the first high-speed rail system in the United States.
What are the projected economic impacts of the California High-Speed Rail?
- Over 70,000 construction jobs
- 450,000 permanent jobs
- Estimated $8 billion annual economic impact
- Projected $14 billion savings in highway congestion costs by 2040
These figures highlight the project’s potential benefits.
What are some challenges faced by the California High-Speed Rail project?
- Significant cost overruns
- Legal battles over land acquisition
- Political opposition
- Technical challenges in tunneling
- Delays in construction timeline
These challenges have raised concerns about the project’s viability.
What is Sejong City in South Korea?
Planned administrative capital city of South Korea.
It is intended to redistribute population and resources from Seoul.
What was the total investment for Sejong City?
Approximately $20 billion.
This investment aims to create new economic opportunities in the central region.
What major project is Hambantota Port part of?
China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
It aims to transform a rural area into an economic hub.
What is NEOM, also known as The Line?
A futuristic mega-city project in northwest Saudi Arabia.
It is part of Saudi Vision 2030 aimed at economic diversification.
What are some features of NEOM?
- 170 km linear city
- No roads or cars
- 100% renewable energy
- Autonomous vehicle network
- High-speed transit system
These features reflect its ambitious and innovative design.
What is the legacy of the abandoned Khazar Islands project in Azerbaijan?
A cautionary tale about megaproject risks and overreliance on oil.
It symbolizes the challenges of ambitious infrastructure projects.
What is the Three Gorges Dam known for?
World’s largest hydroelectric gravity dam.
It serves multiple purposes including flood control, power generation, and improved navigation.
What does economic overreliance on oil refer to?
Dependence on oil as a primary economic resource, leading to vulnerabilities.
What is the Three Gorges Dam known for?
World’s largest hydroelectric gravity dam located on the Yangtze River.
What are the primary purposes of the Three Gorges Dam?
- Flood control
- Power generation
- Improved navigation
When was the construction of the Three Gorges Dam approved?
1992
What was the total cost of the Three Gorges Dam project?
$31.765 billion
By how much did the Three Gorges Dam improve shipping capacity on the Yangtze River?
6 times
What percentage of China’s electricity is supplied by the Three Gorges Dam?
Approximately 3%
How many people were displaced due to the construction of the Three Gorges Dam?
1.3 million people
What ecological impacts resulted from the Three Gorges Dam?
- Habitat destruction
- Loss of biodiversity
- Increased landslide and earthquake risks
What notable engineering feature does the Three Gorges Dam include?
A ship lift capable of raising vessels up to 3,000 tons
What is the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Bridge’s length?
55 kilometers (34 miles)
What was the final cost of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Bridge?
$18.8 billion
What is the purpose of the New Eurasia Land Bridge?
To enhance global trade by linking China and Europe through a railway network.
What global health threat has the WHO identified related to loneliness?
Its mortality effects are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
What is the role of the WHO’s international commission on loneliness?
To address the problem of loneliness worldwide.
What is the increased risk of developing dementia in older adults experiencing loneliness?
50%
What percentage of adolescents experience loneliness?
Between 5% and 15%
What is ‘kodokushi’ in Japan?
Dying alone.
What technology is Japan using to combat loneliness among the elderly?
Robots
What significant trend is indicated by the Human Development Index (HDI) in recent years?
A decrease globally for two consecutive years.
What are the contributing factors to the decline in HDI as reported?
- Climate change
- COVID-19 pandemic
- War in Ukraine
What demographic trend is affecting many of the world’s largest economies?
Falling fertility rates leading to population decline.
What is the projected shift in the working-age population by 2050?
Decrease from 67% to 59% in advanced economies.
What is the expected global population peak year?
2084
What demographic change is indicated by population pyramids shifting to obelisk shapes?
An aging population.
What is the projected global support ratio by 2050?
3.9 working-age people per retiree.
What are the economic implications of an aging population?
Increased consumption by older adults and potential economic slowdowns.
What is the expected change in global consumption patterns by 2050?
Shift from North America and Western Europe to Emerging Asia and India.
What is the projected population percentage of developed regions by 2050?
30%
This marks an increase from 12% in 1997.
Which regions are expected to see a population rise from 12% in 1997 to 30% by 2050?
Emerging Asia and India
This growth requires businesses to adapt to local tastes.
How many countries are projected to see a population decline of a third or more by 2100?
26 countries
This includes countries like China, Poland, and South Korea.
What may happen to the populations of China, Poland, and South Korea by 2100?
They may shrink by half or more
This indicates a significant demographic shift.
What is the expected population of Nigeria by 2050?
It is expected to double
This contrasts with declining populations in other regions.
What constant fertility rate could lead to just 13 grandchildren per 100 grandparents in two generations?
0.7
This rate is comparable to South Korea’s current fertility rate.
What challenges do smaller populations pose to sectors like education?
Require adjustments like school closures
This is due to fewer students enrolling in schools.
What could happen if fertility rates rebound to the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman starting in 2024?
Populations and support ratios could increase significantly
Achieving this rebound is considered unlikely.
What does the UN medium scenario anticipate for the global population by 2050?
9.6 billion
The replacement scenario could see it climb to 10.2 billion.
How might a decline in labor intensity affect economic growth in first-wave economies?
It poses risks to economic growth
This is particularly true as dependency ratios increase.
What has been the main factor driving GDP per capita growth in first-wave economies over the last 25 years?
Productivity growth
It has contributed significantly compared to other factors.
What was the average annual GDP per capita growth for Germany over the past 25 years?
1.1 percent
Changes in age distribution are projected to lower this growth.
What percentage of female labor force participation increased in Spain over the past 25 years?
From 60% to 81%
This increase contributed to labor intensity growth.
What is the ‘Goldilocks Hypothesis’ in the context of social media usage?
Moderate use of social media is best
This approach balances benefits and potential harms.
What psychological effects can result from consuming negative news?
Increased rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression
Continuous exposure to crises can exacerbate these issues.
What is the primary legal framework that provides immunity to online platforms from user-generated content?
Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act
This law treats platforms like bookstores, not responsible for content.
What is the impact of social media algorithms on mental health?
They can lead to loneliness, anxiety, and depression
Algorithms often promote harmful content.
What is the relationship between social media use and feelings of loneliness?
Higher social media usage is linked to increased loneliness
This paradox arises from passive consumption and social comparison.
What is a consequence of receiving a ‘like’ on social media?
It activates dopamine pathways associated with motivation and reward
This can lead to addictive behaviors.
What is the result of endless scrolling on social media?
It leads to social comparison and low self-esteem
This behavior can also result in depression.
What does the study by Harvard suggest about social media use and depression among adults?
Participants using social media were more likely to report symptoms of depression
This study surveyed over 5,000 adults.
What can the media’s portrayal of crises influence?
Public perceptions of safety and travel behaviors
Negative portrayals can deter travel even when risks are low.
What is a significant challenge in moderating content on social media platforms?
Global scale and language barriers
This complicates the prevention of harmful content spread.
What are the health risks associated with chronic stress?
Higher risk of heart attacks and long-term health issues, hypertension, immune system suppression
Chronic stress may lead to various physical and mental health problems.
How does media attention affect cancer research funding?
Increased research funding for cancers with more media attention, despite lower statistical occurrence
Public perception shaped by media influences governmental priorities.
What is the built-in bias humans have regarding news?
Negativity bias; evolutionarily wired to focus on threats and negative information
This bias leads to a preference for distressing news stories.
What was the impact of reporting only positive news on a Russian news site?
Lost two-thirds of its audience
This highlights the public’s preference for negative news.
What is the average screen time for Americans in 2018?
11 hours per day
This includes exposure to constant news coverage.
What are the hidden costs of frequent news consumption?
Mental distress, anxiety, physical health risks, distorted worldviews
The term ‘news soup’ describes the overwhelming exposure to negative news.
What can limit the negative effects of news consumption?
Limiting exposure to repetitive traumatic content
This may help protect mental and physical health.
What is media-induced traumatic stress?
Severe distress and anxiety caused by exposure to graphic images and videos
Particularly affects children and adults through social media.
How can news consumption lead to social action?
Participation in protests, donating to causes, changing daily habits
However, it can also lead to feelings of apathy or helplessness.
What is a meta crisis?
Interconnected, complex crises that overlap and amplify each other
Includes finance, technology (AI), and climate change.
What factors contribute to the cost of living crisis in Australia?
High food prices, increased production costs, limited competition
Financial strain continues despite reports of slowed inflation.
What are the implications of global population decline?
Reduced workforce, slower economic growth, increased financial burden on social support systems
Strategies include encouraging higher birth rates and promoting immigration.
Define parasocial relationships.
One-sided emotional connections where one party is unaware of the other
Often occur between fans and celebrities or influencers.
What are the positive effects of social media on adults and seniors?
Connection, information access, community building
Helps reduce loneliness and provides support networks.
What negative effects can excessive social media use have?
Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, misinformation, addiction, physical health issues
Particularly affects seniors who may be vulnerable to scams.
How do social media algorithms prioritize content?
Maximize user engagement by promoting sensational or polarizing content
This can lead to the spread of misinformation.
What are the key principles for designing a healthier algorithm?
- Prioritize well-being
- Combat misinformation
- Encourage diversity
- Limit addictive features
Balancing engagement with user well-being is a significant challenge.
What could be the potential benefits of a healthier algorithm?
- Improved mental health
- Stronger communities
- Increased trust
Reducing harmful content exposure may lead to these outcomes.
What challenges might arise from implementing a healthier algorithm?
- Revenue loss
- Resistance from users
- Implementation difficulties
Redefining ‘healthy’ content can vary across cultures.
What issues did Bertha, the tunnel-boring machine, face?
- Stuck 120 feet below Seattle
- Overheating and breakdown
- Delayed project completion
Bertha’s issues made the project a significant megaproject fiasco.
What were the consequences of Bertha’s breakdown?
- Increased costs
- Land subsidence
- Damage to nearby buildings
Repairs required extensive work and resources.
What are common risks in megaprojects?
- High costs
- Delays
- Technical challenges
Political and economic pressures often override warnings.
What role did political opposition play in the Seattle tunnel project?
Critics advocated for cheaper alternatives, but pro-tunnel forces secured project approval
The opposition included former mayor Mike McGinn.
