The 10(ish) Most Read Future Perfect Stories of 2025
Vox’s Future Perfect team has once again spotlighted global issues that are often overlooked but hold significant potential for positive change. From the ethical dilemmas of AI to the complexities of biodiversity conservation, these stories have resonated deeply with readers this year.vox.com
1. “The astonishing conflict of interest haunting RFK Jr.’s health secretary nomination”
This investigative piece delves into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial nomination for health secretary, highlighting his financial ties to anti-vaccine campaigns and the potential implications for public health policy. flipboard.com
2. “Inside Trump’s purge at the agency that saves millions of lives”
An in-depth look at the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), a key organization in global health and development, and the potential consequences of these actions. flipboard.com
3. “DeepSeek is bad for Silicon Valley. But it might be great for you.”
This analysis examines the rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, and its implications for the tech industry, questioning whether its advancements could challenge Silicon Valley’s dominance. flipboard.com
4. “You’re wrong about DeepSeek”
A follow-up piece that critiques common misconceptions about DeepSeek’s capabilities and explores the potential benefits and risks associated with its technology. flipboard.com
5. “The Doomsday Clock is running out of time”
An urgent reflection on the current state of global existential threats, analyzing the factors contributing to the Doomsday Clock’s proximity to midnight and what it signifies for humanity’s future. flipboard.com
6. “Researchers are terrified of Trump’s freeze on science. The rest of us should be, too.”
This piece explores the implications of the Trump administration’s policies on scientific research funding and the potential long-term effects on innovation and public health. flipboard.com
7. “Why the Pentagon wants to build thousands of easily replaceable, AI-enabled drones”
An analysis of the U.S. military’s strategy to deploy AI-powered drones, examining the ethical considerations and potential impacts on warfare and international relations.
8. “Elon Musk wants to merge humans with AI. How many brains will be damaged along the way?”
A critical look at Neuralink’s endeavors to integrate AI with human brains, discussing the scientific challenges and ethical concerns surrounding such ambitious projects. zephr-prd.vox.com
9. “Why did geologists reject the ‘Anthropocene’ epoch? It’s not rock science.”
This article delves into the debate among geologists over formally recognizing the Anthropocene epoch, highlighting the political and scientific factors influencing the decision. zephr-prd.vox.com
10. “The tropical disease that’s suddenly everywhere”
An exploration of the resurgence of dengue fever in South America and its spread to the U.S., examining the factors contributing to its rapid proliferation and the public health response.
