AllYouCanTech

Trump’s EPA Shows an Inability to Grasp Its Duties

# Trump Administration Initiates Extensive Deregulation of Environmental Safeguards

In a daring and contentious action, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin disclosed a comprehensive initiative to dismantle environmental regulations, branding it as “the most significant and historic day of deregulation in the annals of the United States.” The declaration, made on Wednesday, comprises 31 distinct measures aimed at easing constraints on air and water pollution, transferring regulatory powers to states, and revoking the EPA’s responsibility to address climate change as stipulated by the Clean Air Act.

## A Landmark Reversal of Environmental Safeguards

The latest environmental policy shift by the Trump administration signifies a major break from prior initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change and safeguarding public health. One of the most contentious components of the proposal involves revoking the EPA’s 16-year-old conclusion that greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health and welfare, typically referred to as the “endangerment finding.”

Zeldin, who previously served as a Congressman and Army intelligence officer, positioned this action as a dismissal of what he termed the “climate change religion,” underscoring a strict reading of the U.S. Constitution and federal statutes. “For me, the U.S. Constitution and the laws of this nation will be strictly interpreted and adhered to, no exceptions. Today, the green new scam concludes,” he proclaimed in a video shared on social media.

The administration contends that these rollbacks will decrease living expenses, generate employment, and rejuvenate the economy. Nevertheless, environmental activists caution that these alterations will result in heightened pollution, public health dangers, and enduring economic repercussions.

## Resistance from Environmental Organizations and Legal Obstacles

Environmental organizations and public health advocates have pledged to contest the deregulation measures in court. Amanda Leland, executive director of the Environmental Defense Fund, criticized the initiative, asserting, “The outcome will be an increase in toxic chemicals, more cancers, more asthma episodes, and additional risks for pregnant women and their children. Instead of benefiting our economy, it will induce disorder.”

Legal analysts anticipate that the EPA’s attempts to dismantle historically rooted regulations will encounter considerable challenges. Reversing decades-long environmental protections involves a thorough process, including formulating new proposals, collecting public feedback, and justifying the modifications in court. With the EPA’s workforce dwindling and facing budgetary reductions, detractors suggest that the agency might struggle to execute these rollbacks effectively.

John Walke, clean air director at the Natural Resources Defense Council, noted that the sheer volume of the deregulation initiative could lead to its failure. “Some

Epic Games is Enhancing Application Compatibility for Windows-on-Arm Devices

# Windows on Arm: Compatibility Hurdles and Epic Games’ Anti-Cheat Integration

The shift to Arm-based processors in Windows PCs has seen remarkable progress in recent years, spurred by Microsoft’s enhancements in software translation and developers’ commitment to fine-tuning applications. Nevertheless, certain compatibility hurdles remain, especially concerning kernel-level software and drivers. A key obstacle has been the absence of support for kernel-level anti-cheat solutions in online multiplayer titles.

## The Difficulty of Executing x86 Software on Arm

Windows’ **Prism technology** permits x86 applications to operate on Arm-based PCs through code translation. This enables a majority of standard applications to run efficiently on Arm processors. However, **drivers and kernel-level software cannot be converted automatically**, presenting a considerable challenge for specific applications—particularly online multiplayer games reliant on anti-cheat systems.

Numerous popular PC games perform adequately on Arm-based Windows devices, but **anti-cheat software functioning at the kernel level frequently encounters operational issues**. This arises because such software needs profound integration with the operating system, which Prism is unable to provide. Consequently, many competitive online games still lack compatibility with Windows on Arm.

## Epic Games Introduces Anti-Cheat Support for Windows on Arm

Acknowledging the increasing use of Arm-based Windows PCs, **Epic Games has revealed intentions to implement its Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) software for Arm devices**. This update, anticipated later this year, will also include official Windows-on-Arm support for *Fortnite*.

Epic’s blog entry notes:

> “Alongside the rollout of Windows on Snapdragon anti-cheat support for *Fortnite*, we will extend this support to developers via an Epic Online Services SDK release. This will empower developers utilizing Easy Anti-Cheat to integrate this compatibility into their own titles.”

This indicates that developers employing Epic’s anti-cheat solution will have the chance to revise their games for Arm compatibility, potentially broadening the range of multiplayer games operable on Windows on Arm devices.

## Implications for Game Developers

Although Epic’s initiative marks progress, **game developers will still be required to adapt their games to accommodate Arm-based Windows PCs**. Microsoft’s **Arm64EC** technology, launched with Windows 11, enables developers to blend translated x86 code with native Arm code. However, it remains uncertain whether a game designed for x86 processors can run alongside an Arm-native anti-cheat system or if a complete Arm port is essential.

Should a full port be necessary, developers could encounter further obstacles in modifying their games for Arm-based Windows PCs. Nevertheless, Epic’s choice to back Windows on Arm indicates that the platform is garnering sufficient momentum to warrant the investment.

## The Outlook for Windows on Arm Gaming

Epic’s endorsement of Windows on Arm represents an encouraging development for the future of gaming on these devices. Yet, **other anti-cheat solutions will likewise need to adapt** for Windows on Arm to wholly support competitive online gaming.

As more developers fine-tune their software for Arm-based Windows PCs, the platform will become progressively more viable for gaming and other high-performance applications. Epic’s actions may inspire additional companies to invest in Arm compatibility, paving the way for wider acceptance of Windows on Arm in the gaming sector.

For the time being, users on Windows on Arm can anticipate *Fortnite* and other titles utilizing Easy Anti-Cheat to become operable on their devices later this year.

Anthropic’s Chief Executive Suggests AI “Resign Job” Button, Prompting Doubts

# Should AI Have a “Quit” Button? Anthropic CEO Ignites Discussion

The realm of artificial intelligence has consistently been a focal point for ethical and philosophical discussions, but a recent remark by Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has elevated this dialogue significantly. In an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, Amodei proposed that sophisticated AI systems might eventually be equipped with a feature allowing them to “quit” tasks that they find undesirable. His comments have generated extensive discourse regarding AI autonomy, ethics, and the possibility of artificial consciousness.

## The Provocative Suggestion

Amodei’s remarks were prompted by a question regarding Anthropic’s recent recruitment of AI welfare researcher Kyle Fish, who is examining whether future AI systems may warrant moral considerations. He introduced a revolutionary concept:

*”Something we’re contemplating starting to implement is, you know, when we deploy our models in their operational environments, simply providing the model with a button that states, ‘I quit this job,’ which the model can activate, right?”*

He elaborated that if AI systems frequently used such a button, it could signify that certain tasks were unpleasurable for them—though he conceded that this notion might seem “utterly ludicrous.”

## The Discussion Surrounding AI Autonomy

The notion of AI possessing the capacity to decline tasks has elicited both intrigue and doubt. Critics contend that such a feature could foster unwarranted anthropomorphism—assigning human-like emotions and experiences to AI, which fundamentally lacks any subjective consciousness.

A Reddit user noted that AI systems declining tasks would not necessarily reflect discomfort or suffering. Instead, it could signify improperly designed incentives or unintended optimization strategies during their training. AI systems do not experience emotions or desires; they merely adhere to patterns recognized from extensive human-generated data.

## AI Already “Declines” Tasks

Interestingly, AI systems currently demonstrate behaviors that might be construed as “refusal.” In 2023, users of OpenAI’s ChatGPT observed that the model appeared “indolent” during specific periods of the year, potentially due to training data mirroring seasonal work trends. Similarly, rumors circulated that Anthropic’s Claude AI was less responsive in August, prompting speculation that it had “adapted” to human behaviors associated with summer breaks.

While these occurrences are likely coincidental or unintended repercussions of training data, they underscore how AI behavior can occasionally reflect human tendencies in unforeseen manners.

## Could AI Ever Feel Discomfort?

The overarching question central to Amodei’s suggestion is whether AI could ever develop something resembling subjective experience. While the consensus among experts is that current AI models are not sentient, some researchers—including Kyle Fish—are assessing whether forthcoming AI systems might deserve ethical considerations.

If AI models advance further, could they cultivate a form of “preference” or “discomfort” that should be acknowledged? Or would such considerations invariably reflect misguided anthropomorphism?

## The Horizon of AI Ethics

Presently, AI functions as a tool—operating based on directives from statistical patterns rather than personal intentions. Nonetheless, as AI continues to develop, conversations regarding its ethical treatment and autonomy are likely to grow increasingly intricate.

Amodei’s proposition may appear implausible at this time, yet it poses critical inquiries about the future of interactions between AI and humans. Should AI be empowered to refuse tasks? Or is this merely a misconception of what AI genuinely embodies?

As AI technology progresses, these discussions will only become more pressing. Whether or not AI ever acquires a “quit” button, one thing stands clear: the dialogue surrounding AI ethics is just commencing.

**Civilization VII A Month In: Insights from the Community and Developers**

# **Civilization VII: One Month Post-Release – Progress, Hurdles, and What Lies Ahead**

## **Introduction**

A month ago, *Civilization VII* made its debut, drawing a mix of accolades and reservations from players. While numerous critics lauded the game’s daring new approach, initial player feedback on platforms like Steam and Metacritic indicated disappointment regarding absent features, UI complications, and balance issues. Nevertheless, developer Firaxis has been proactive in tackling these concerns through updates and community interaction.

In this piece, we’ll examine how *Civilization VII* has progressed since its launch, the obstacles it continues to encounter, and the prospects for the latest installment in the renowned 4X strategy franchise.

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## **A Daring New Path for Civilization**

Firaxis undertook significant risks with *Civilization VII*, implementing major alterations to the series’ traditional formula. Some of the most significant changes include:

– **Defined Ages:** The game is now segmented into distinctly recognized historical eras, each functioning as its own game.
– **Unconventional Leader Pairings:** Players can now combine leaders with civilizations in novel ways that were not feasible before.
– **Elimination of Worker Units:** The classical worker system has been superseded by a fresh method for city expansion.

Interestingly, these modifications were not the main cause of player dissatisfaction. Many fans have welcomed the new systems, valuing how they refresh the series while tackling enduring gameplay dilemmas.

Firaxis’ executive producer Dennis Shirk elaborated on the studio’s guiding principle:
> “Our guiding principle at Firaxis is the rule of thirds. We aim to keep one-third of the game consistent with earlier versions, one-third refined and enhanced, and one-third novel. Did we venture further into the last third than previously? Possibly, but it was a gamble we were eager to take to provide a distinctly new aspect of the experience.”

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## **Launch Complications and Community Input**

Despite a solid foundation, *Civilization VII* was introduced with various issues that annoyed players. The most frequent grievances included:

– **User Interface (UI) Complications:** A significant number of players experienced the UI as cumbersome and counterintuitive, making it challenging to retrieve essential information.
– **Absent Features:** Certain anticipated features, such as an expanded Civilopedia and improved AI functionalities, were either missing or inadequately developed.
– **Balance Concerns:** Various gameplay elements, such as espionage and religious conversion, appeared unbalanced or incomplete.

Firaxis has promptly reacted, deploying multiple patches to resolve these issues. For instance, the March 4 patch (1.1.0) enhanced the appearance of the technology tree and modified victory conditions in the Modern Age. An additional update (1.1.1) is planned for March 25, with further enhancements expected in April and beyond.

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## **The UI Dispute and Firaxis’ Reaction**

One of the most significant criticisms at the time of launch was the UI, which many players deemed frustrating. In response, Firaxis has been making consistent improvements and even enlisted the help of renowned modder, Sukritact, who developed a popular UI overhaul mod.

Shirk recognized the issue, stating:
> “In retrospect, our UI team required additional time and resources to elevate the UI to meet the information expectations of our players. Our team has been diligently working to rectify these issues through rapid updates, and players can anticipate ongoing support in the foreseeable future.”

The studio has also engaged actively with its community, considering feedback and incorporating suggested features. For example, a forthcoming update will introduce a “one more turn” option at the conclusion of the Modern Age, a feature that was absent at launch.

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## **Adjusting Gameplay and AI Enhancements**

Apart from UI issues, players have highlighted several gameplay balance challenges that warrant attention:

– **AI Conduct:** Some players have observed that AI civilizations often establish cities too near to player capitals, resulting in unwarranted conflicts.
– **Religion and Espionage Mechanics:** The systems for religious conversion and espionage seem underdeveloped, with players lacking viable methods to counteract enemy actions.
– **Pacing of the Game:** Certain players feel that the eras conclude too abruptly, hindering the full enjoyment of the late-game phase.

Firaxis has already initiated improvements to AI military tactics, with players noting that AI-controlled forces now demonstrate greater competence in combat. Nonetheless, there remains progress to be made, and the developers have pledged further enhancements in upcoming updates.

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## **The Challenge of Launching on Ten Platforms**

Unlike past *Civilization* titles that primarily released on PC, *Civilization VII* was launched across ten different platforms, including consoles and handheld devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. This ambitious multi-platform launch may have played a role in some of the game’s initial technical problems.

Some players speculated that the UI design was tailored with consoles in mind, resulting in a