Thought Press.

Here are some trends in today’s news. Click the headline for a full article regarding that particular trend.

Consumers still prefer to buy music on CDs
Jupiter Research reports most iPod users (83%) do not buy digital music regularly and most people rip the music from CDs. Any music bought online are usually singles.

A visual guide to where your tax dollars go
A look at the 2007 budget shows an increase in Customs and Boreder Protection and a decrease in Homeland Security Preparedness. Higher education: -30%. Corporation for Public Broadcasting: -25%. Federal Railroad Adminsitration: -28%. Click the link to view an excellent chart of the 2007 US budget.

Number of kidney cancer cases has been rising
The increase over the past two decades has been caused primarily by many cases with small tumors that cause no symptoms, a new study found. And, even though these small tumors are detected early it has not led to a decrease in the death rate.

Increase in popularity of online education
A 2005 report shows a great increase in the number of distance learning courses. Changes in social and work trends and led people to turn to online learning.

Key trends to a successful government
IBM senior staff members put together a report highlighting key foci that will make the government successful, some of which include a call for a “market-based government” where there is more competition, choice, and incentives, also using performance management, engaging citizens, and using networks and partnerships were other important trends.

Exorbitant oil prices exepected to continue
Here’s a good analysis of why oil costs will remain high. Alternative energy sources have drawbacks: “a tank of ethanol deprives the world of enough food to feed someone for a year.” Silicon may be a good alternative.

Voting by SMS for reality shows expected to increase
The US is new to such interactive TV, compared to Europe, but more and more reality shows are adding text voting capabilities. World Wrestling Entertainment even is going to be embracing this.