We introduce a simple lattice model for the formation and evolution of shear bands in granular media. We study this model by numerical simulations and find that due to the localization of the shear band and the consequent inhomogeneous aging of the material, the average density shows very...

While taxation affects everybody who lives in a modern society, existing systems suffer from inconsistencies, operational imperfections, and high running costs. Amounts of tax paid by taxpayers are highly independent of the benefits received in return, which provides great freedom for...

"We live in an age of increasing complexity--an era of accelerating technology and global interconnection that holds more promise, and more peril, than any other time in human history. The fossil fuels that have powered global wealth creation now threaten to destroy the world they helped build....