Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight Amid Global Concerns; Psychiatric Diagnostic Manual to Undergo Major Revision
The symbolic Doomsday Clock was set to 85 seconds to midnight on Tuesday, the closest it has ever been to a theoretical annihilation, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. This marks the third time in the past five years that the clock has been moved closer to midnight, reflecting growing global concerns. Simultaneously, in the field of mental health, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) announced plans for a major overhaul of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), often referred to as the "Bible of psychiatry," with the aim of creating a more adaptable and accessible resource.
Atomic scientists cited familiar risks such as nuclear weapons and climate change as contributing factors to the Doomsday Clock's setting, along with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, which they argued is being used to spread disinformation. "Every second counts, and we are running out of time. It is a hard truth, but this is our reality," said Alexandra Bell, President and CEO of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.
Meanwhile, the APA outlined its thinking and approach for the next revision of the DSM in five studies published Wednesday in The American Journal of Psychiatry, according to NPR News. Instead of a traditional weighty volume, the next DSM will be a "living document" online, designed to be easier to update. The APA has not yet set a strict timeline for the revision and has not decided whether it will be called DSM-6 or given a new name.
These announcements come amid ongoing scrutiny of immigration enforcement practices in the United States. Vox reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis killed two US citizens and terrorized uncounted more. This follows reports from last year of similar actions in Chicago. According to Vox, "Just a year into his second term, Donald Trumps new, militarized immigration force is on full display." The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly investigating its own killings, according to Vox.
In other news, the Copenhagen Intl. Documentary Film Festival, also known as CPH:DOX, announced that the documentary "Mariinka," directed by Belgian filmmaker Pieter-Jan De Pue, will open the 23rd edition of the festival, which is scheduled to take place March 11-22 in Copenhagen, according to Variety.
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