"In some respects, it's more of an event than the Olympics... for the message it sends young children across the world opening everyone's eyes to what these athletes can do so " said Mrs Hext, an orchestral musician.

BBC: Paralympics keeps flame burning

Each inequity sends a message to young people that they can expect not to be treated equally when they grow up, setting them on the pathway to lowered self-esteem and poorer health.

CNN: Why bias puts young gays' health at risk

Instead of dispatching a young soldier to probe for a mine or search a cave, a commander these days often sends in a small robot.

WSJ: In the Afghan War, a Little Robot Can Be a Soldier's Best Friend