Mirror Mirror

To move along the plot in her first book, J.K. Rowling invented a magical whatzit called 'The Mirror of Erised' - which, when gazed upon, reflects the object of our heart's desire. The famous young magician looks into it and sees the image of his dead parents.

Cue up the English major analysis. That's heavy for a kid's book. Of course, the wise fatherly wizard shows up, and explains that the mirror is really a cruel trick. People who peer into it are left mooning away, and they eventually drift into sadness.

French scientists have created the reverse scenario, literally, using high technology. This mirror collects information about your lifestyle - how often you sit on the sofa, how many Cheetos you stuff into your mouth, and your drinking and tobacco habits - and reflects back the physical condition you are on your way to attaining. Using advanced algorithms and biometric 3D whizbangery it shows you a picture of your fat, wrinkled self a couple of years out.

This 'Mirror of Daerd' (so to speak) could get you back to the gym.

Thanks, French scientists! I've got an idea. Maybe now you can invent a mirror for your public officials that will observe the diplomatic uselessness, socialist philandering, and legendary cowardice, and reflect back the picture of a society in slow decline.