Pieces

An Untold Story of LSD Psychotherapy in Communist Czechoslovakia
This article discusses the use of LSD in psychotherapy in Czechoslovakia during the communist era, focusing on the work of Dr. Milan Hausner at the Sadská clinic. Hausner, along with colleagues, developed a unique therapeutic community approach combining LSD with various forms of therapy. The article details the successes and failures of this program, the controversies surrounding LSD use, and the eventual shutdown of the clinic due to political and ethical concerns. The article also highlights the experiences of patients who underwent LSD therapy at Sadská.

Henry Kissinger, War Criminal Beloved by America’s Ruling Class, Finally Dies
This article reflects on the controversial legacy of Henry Kissinger, a prominent political figure known for his role as National Security Advisor and Secretary of State during the Nixon and Ford administrations. The article discusses the accusations of war crimes and human rights violations that have been directed at Kissinger throughout his career, particularly in relation to events such as the Vietnam War, bombing campaigns in Cambodia, and military coups in Latin America. It also examines the complexities of Kissinger's foreign policy decisions and the ongoing debates surrounding his actions, questioning whether he should be remembered as a statesman or a war criminal.





These fish live beyond 100--and get healthier as they age
This National Geographic article delves into the mystery surrounding the unusually long lifespan of the American buffalofish. Known for its ability to live for over a hundred years, the buffalofish has intrigued scientists and fish enthusiasts alike. The article explores various theories proposed to explain this exceptional longevity, including genetics, environmental factors, and the fish's unique physiology. It discusses ongoing research efforts aimed at unraveling the secrets behind the buffalofish's extended lifespan. Through interviews with experts and explorations of scientific studies, the article offers insights into this fascinating natural phenomenon that has puzzled researchers for decades.

What Happened to David Graeber?
This article delves into the life and legacy of anthropologist David Graeber, known for his influential work in the field of anarchism and activism. It explores the circumstances surrounding his unexpected death in 2020 and the impact of his ideas on social movements and academia. The article highlights Graeber's role in popularizing the concept of "bullshit jobs" and his commitment to challenging the status quo. It also discusses his contributions to the Occupy Wall Street movement and his belief in the power of direct action. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of David Graeber's life and the significance of his intellectual and activist work.

Gene Therapy Allows an 11-Year-Old Boy to Hear for the First Time
This article from The New York Times discusses a groundbreaking gene therapy treatment that has successfully restored partial hearing in mice with a specific genetic mutation that causes deafness. The therapy involves injecting a harmless virus into the inner ear to deliver a gene that helps regenerate hair cells responsible for detecting sound. The article explains the potential implications of this treatment for human patients with genetic hearing loss, highlighting the challenges and ethical considerations involved in developing and implementing gene therapies. It also explores the broader field of gene therapy and its potential to revolutionize treatments for various genetic disorders.







The Year of Ozempic
In this New Yorker article, the author reflects on 2023 as the "Year of Ozempic" - a popular prescription drug for weight loss. The article discusses the rise in popularity of Ozempic and its impact on the diet and pharmaceutical industries. It delves into the marketing strategies employed by pharmaceutical companies to promote the drug and the controversies surrounding its efficacy and potential side effects. The article also explores the societal and cultural implications of the obsession with weight loss and the desire for a quick fix. Overall, it offers a thoughtful analysis of the phenomenon surrounding Ozempic in the year 2023.
#!/usr/bin/bash
# ------------------------------------------
#
# place in /etc/NetworkManager/dispatcher.d/
#
# ------------------------------------------
CURRENT_INTERFACE=$1
EVENT=$2
# uuid of 'tofu' (nmcli c)
HOME_UUID="xyz"
# Replace with the interface name (e.g., wlp0s20f3)
HOME_INTERFACE="wlp0s20f3"
# Path to your default hosts file
BASE_HOSTS="/etc/hosts.base"
# Path to the hosts file for your home network
HOME_HOSTS="/etc/hosts.home"
if [[ $CURRENT_INTERFACE != "$HOME_INTERFACE" ]] || [[ $EVENT != "up" && $EVENT != "down" ]]
; then
exit 0
fi
# this environmental variable is set on UP/DOWN events
if [[ $CONNECTION_UUID != "$HOME_UUID" ]]; then
exit 0
fi
# Function to swap hosts files
if [ "$EVENT" = "up" ]; then
cat "$BASE_HOSTS" "$HOME_HOSTS" | sudo tee /etc/hosts
echo "combined home hosts file"
else
sudo cp /etc/hosts.base /etc/hosts
echo "back to base hosts file"
fi





The road ahead for EV adoption is made of gravel
This article examines the challenges and politics surrounding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in rural America. It highlights the disparities in access to EV charging stations between urban and rural areas, with rural communities facing significant barriers to adoption. The article discusses the limited financial incentives and logistical challenges faced by businesses in expanding charging infrastructure in these areas. Additionally, it delves into the political dimensions of EV charging in rural America, with discussions around funding, government policies, and the role of utilities. Overall, the article sheds light on the complexities and obstacles associated with expanding EV charging infrastructure in rural communities.

So You’re in Love With a Bad Sleeper
This article from The New York Times discusses the potential benefits and drawbacks of couples sharing a bed for sleep. It explores the concept of 'sleep divorce,' where couples choose to sleep in separate beds or even bedrooms to improve their sleep quality. The article explains that while sharing a bed can create a sense of intimacy and closeness, it can also lead to disturbances and sleep disruptions. It cites studies that suggest couples may experience better sleep when sleeping alone, as they have less chance of being disturbed by their partner's movements or sleep issues. The article acknowledges that the decision to share a bed or not is highly personal and depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

AI Is Becoming a Band-Aid over Bad, Broken Tech Industry Design Choices
This article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is often used as a fix for poor design choices in the tech industry. It highlights the tendency for companies to rely on AI systems to address issues caused by inadequate or flawed designs, rather than addressing the underlying problems. The article argues that this approach can lead to various negative consequences, including biased algorithms, privacy concerns, and lack of transparency. It emphasizes the need for the tech industry to prioritize good design practices from the beginning, rather than relying on AI as a band-aid solution. The author also suggests that AI should be used as a tool to enhance human capabilities, rather than as a substitute for proper design and decision-making.

QR codes
Typefully is a website that offers a tool to generate personalized QR codes. QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned by smartphones to quickly access information or websites. This page, specifically authored by Dan Hollick on Typefully, explains what QR codes are and how they can be used for various purposes, such as sharing contact information, linking to websites, or even creating interactive experiences. The article highlights the benefits of using QR codes and provides steps on how to generate QR codes using the Typefully tool. Whether for personal or professional use, this resource offers a convenient way to create customized QR codes.

My $500M Mars Rover Mistake
This article on Chris Lewicki's website discusses the concept of failure and the importance of embracing it as a learning opportunity. The author shares a personal failure story from their own career and reflects on the valuable lessons that were gained from it. The article emphasizes that failure is not a negative outcome, but rather a stepping stone towards growth and success. It encourages readers to reframe their perspective on failure and view it as a necessary part of the journey towards achieving goals. Overall, the article serves as a motivational and insightful piece on the power of embracing failure.

It’s not in the interests of the ordinary person but it’s not a conspiracy either. A cashless society is a system run amok
In this essay, the author argues that the increasing trend towards a cashless society is not a result of a grand conspiracy, but rather a combination of technological advancements and consumer preferences. The author raises concerns about the potential consequences of going cashless, such as the loss of privacy and the exclusion of marginalized communities who rely on cash transactions. The essay explores how cash has historically played a vital role in society and highlights the downsides of relying solely on digital and card-based payments. While acknowledging the convenience of digital payments, the author cautions against completely abandoning cash and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers the potential negative impacts of going cashless.

Our Universe wasn’t empty, even before the Big Bang
This article challenges the traditional notion that the universe was empty before the Big Bang. It explores the concept of the "cosmic foam," which is a state of the universe where space and time fluctuate at extremely small scales. The article explains that the cosmic foam could have existed before the Big Bang and may have been responsible for the creation of the universe. It discusses the idea that the cosmic foam is not empty, but rather a complex and dynamic structure that was the precursor to the universe as we know it. The article also delves into the implications of this perspective on our understanding of the origin and nature of the universe.

It Will Never Be a Good Time to Buy a House
In this article, the author discusses the current housing market shortage and its impact on potential homebuyers. They explain that the shortage of available homes for sale has led to fierce competition and rising prices in many areas. The article examines the factors contributing to the housing shortage, including a lack of new construction, an increase in demand from millennials entering the market, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The author also highlights the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and offers insights into potential solutions for addressing the housing shortage. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the current housing market and its implications for buyers.

Why doesn't TypeScript properly type Object.keys?
In this blog post, the author explores the concept of structural typing in TypeScript. Structural typing is a type system that focuses on the structure and shape of an object rather than its explicit type. The article explains how structural typing differs from nominal typing, which is commonly used in languages like Java and C#. It also discusses the benefits and drawbacks of using structural typing in TypeScript, such as increased flexibility and easier code reuse. The author provides examples and scenarios where structural typing can be particularly useful and offers insights on how to leverage this feature effectively in TypeScript development.

This Is Your Brain on Books
This article discusses the relationship between reading and the brain. It explores how reading affects the brain's neural circuits and how reading can be considered a form of exercise for the brain. The author highlights various studies that have shown the positive impact of reading on brain function, including improved empathy, increased connectivity between brain regions, and enhanced cognitive abilities. The article also addresses the potential drawbacks of digital reading and the importance of cultivating a reading habit. Overall, it emphasizes the transformative power of books and reading on the brain.
review-energy-and-civilization-by
This website is a review of the book "Energy and Civilization: A History" by Vaclav Smil. The review provides an overview of the book's main arguments and themes. It discusses how energy has played a crucial role in shaping human civilization throughout history, from the discovery of fire to the modern era of fossil fuels. The review highlights the author's comprehensive analysis of different energy sources and their impact on economic, social, and environmental aspects of civilization. It also praises the book for its accessible writing style and its ability to provide a holistic view of the complex relationship between energy and civilization.

Ninth Dedekind Number Found by Two Independent Groups
This article discusses a recent mathematical discovery regarding Dedekind numbers. Dedekind numbers are a type of mathematical sequence that have applications in number theory and combinatorics. The article explains that two independent research teams have found the ninth Dedekind number, a significant milestone in the field. It highlights the significance of this discovery and its potential implications for future research. The article also provides a brief overview of Dedekind numbers and their importance in understanding certain mathematical concepts. Overall, this article explores the recent breakthrough in Dedekind number research and its impact on the field of mathematics.
Decoding small QR codes by hand
This blog post discusses the process of decoding small QR codes manually. It provides a step-by-step guide on how to decode QR codes without the assistance of a smartphone or QR code reader. The author explains the structure of a QR code and breaks down the decoding process into several stages, including locating the QR code, identifying the positioning patterns, determining the version and error correction level, and finally decoding the encoded data. The post also discusses the limitations and challenges of decoding small QR codes by hand. It is a helpful resource for individuals interested in understanding the mechanics of QR codes and how to decode them manually.

The hidden culprit driving America’s apocalypse of boarded-up storefronts
This article discusses the challenges faced by urban areas in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing retail landscape. It highlights how the pandemic has accelerated the decline of brick-and-mortar retail, leading to vacant storefronts in many cities. The article focuses on the role of banks and financial institutions in urban planning and revitalization efforts. It explores the various financing options available to address the vacant storefront issue, such as grants, loans, and tax incentives. The article also examines the potential long-term impacts of the pandemic on urban planning, with a shift towards more mixed-use developments and flexible zoning regulations. Overall, it provides insights into the complex relationship between urban planning, retail, and financing in the post-pandemic era.

Scientists use quantum device to slow chemical process down by 100 billion times
This article discusses a breakthrough in quantum computing that has significantly advanced the field of chemical simulations. Researchers at the University of Sydney have used a quantum computer to simulate a phenomenon called "conical intersection" that occurs in chemical reactions. The simulation, which normally would take billions of years on a classical computer, was completed in a fraction of a second using a quantum computer. Conical intersections play a crucial role in understanding and predicting chemical reactions, and this breakthrough could have significant implications for drug development, materials science, and other fields reliant on chemical simulations. The article highlights the potential of quantum computing to revolutionize computational chemistry and accelerate scientific discoveries.

When Trucks Fly
In this New Yorker article, the author delves into the world of flying trucks and the potential implications for transportation and infrastructure. The article examines the advancements in drone technology and explores how companies like Amazon and Uber are developing autonomous flying vehicles for delivery purposes. It also looks at the challenges and concerns surrounding the integration of flying trucks into our airspace, including safety regulations, noise pollution, and privacy issues. The author raises thought-provoking questions about the future of transportation and the impact it may have on our daily lives.

The Scandal That Never Happened
This article from ProPublica investigates a concerning practice in Louisiana's courts, where judges routinely ignored prisoners' petitions without reviewing them. The article focuses on the case of a prisoner named Clifton Gomez, whose petition was dismissed with a one-sentence order, even though he had a strong case for an appeal. The article highlights the lack of due process and the alarming disregard for the rights of prisoners in Louisiana's judicial system. It also raises questions about the efficiency and fairness of the legal process in the state. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for reform to ensure that prisoners receive a fair review of their petitions and have access to justice.

Putin’s Forever War
This article discusses Russian President Vladimir Putin's strategies for maintaining power and control domestically and internationally. It explores how Putin has managed to remain in power for a long time and maintain a strong grip on his country. The article also delves into the concept of a "forever war," where Putin perpetuates conflicts or creates an atmosphere of perpetual tension to serve his own political ends. It examines how this strategy allows Putin to consolidate power, suppress dissent, and maintain the support of his base. The article analyzes the implications of Putin's actions for Russia, Europe, and the international community.

Local Newspapers Are Vanishing. How Should We Remember Them?
This article discusses the decline of local newspapers and the impact it has had on the community of Springfield, Massachusetts. It highlights how the loss of a strong local newspaper has left a void in the coverage of important local issues, resulting in a lack of accountability and transparency. The article also explores the economic factors that have contributed to the decline of newspapers, such as declining advertising revenue and the rise of digital media. It emphasizes the importance of a robust local journalism ecosystem in providing citizens with crucial information and holding those in power accountable. The author concludes that efforts must be made to support and sustain local newspapers for the betterment of communities.

You're Not Going to Make It
The website 'okdoomer.io' features an article titled 'You're Not Going to Make It' that challenges the prevailing narrative of constant success and achievement in modern society. It argues that the pressure to constantly strive for success can be detrimental to mental health and overall well-being. The article questions the notion of 'making it' and encourages readers to redefine their own definition of success. It suggests that true fulfillment comes from embracing imperfections and finding contentment in the present moment, rather than constantly chasing after external markers of success. Ultimately, the article urges readers to prioritize their own happiness and well-being over societal expectations.

The US library system, once the best in the world, faces death by a thousand cuts
This article discusses the potential dangers of digital licensing for libraries in the United States. It highlights the concerns raised by librarians and advocates regarding the increasing reliance on digital content, which is often subject to restrictive licensing agreements. The article raises the issue of how digital licensing can limit access to information, as licenses can be revoked or restricted, leaving libraries and their patrons without access to important resources. It also explores the impact of digital licensing on privacy, as user data and reading habits can be tracked and monitored. The article ultimately argues for the importance of preserving and protecting public libraries as essential institutions for free access to information in the digital age.

The key to depression, obesity, alcoholism – and more? Why the vagus nerve is so exciting to scientists
This article explores the role of the vagus nerve in various health conditions, including depression, obesity, and alcoholism. The vagus nerve is a long and complex nerve that connects the brain to various organs in the body, including the heart, lungs, and digestive system. Scientists have discovered that the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, mood, and stress responses. By understanding the functioning of the vagus nerve, researchers hope to develop new treatments and interventions for mental health conditions and other disorders. The article also discusses the potential for vagus nerve stimulation as a therapeutic approach and highlights ongoing research in this field.

The EV transition trips over its own cord
This article discusses the challenges and complexities surrounding the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and the political factors that can influence this transition. It highlights the increasing demand for EVs globally and the efforts of governments and automakers to encourage their adoption. The article examines the various obstacles that can hinder the EV transition, such as infrastructure limitations, supply chain issues, and political resistance. It also explores how political factors, including policy decisions and lobbying efforts, can impact the widespread adoption of EVs. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of addressing these challenges to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and achieve sustainable transportation.

The Battle Over Books3 Could Change AI Forever
In this thought-provoking article, the author delves into the ongoing debate surrounding the digitization and accessibility of books. It explores the tension between traditional publishing models and emerging digital platforms, examining the pros and cons of each. The article discusses the democratization of knowledge through digital libraries and the ability to reach wider audiences, but also raises concerns about the loss of physical books and the potential for censorship and control by corporate entities. It highlights the importance of preserving the diversity of publishing channels and ensuring access to information for all. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the battle over books in the digital age.

The acute suicide crisis among veterinarians
This article delves into the alarming suicide crisis among veterinarians and explores the unique challenges they face in their profession. It highlights the high level of stress, emotional toll, and compassion fatigue experienced by veterinarians, as they are constantly faced with difficult decisions regarding the lives of animals. The article discusses the sense of failure and guilt that many veterinarians experience when they are unable to save an animal, which can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. It also examines the societal expectations placed on veterinarians and the lack of support and resources available to them. The article sheds light on the urgent need for improved mental health support within the veterinary profession.
Some notes on Local-First Development
This blog post discusses the concept of "local-first" development and its benefits. Local-first development focuses on building applications that prioritize user control and data ownership, enabling offline functionality and collaboration. The author highlights the limitations of cloud-based applications that rely heavily on internet connectivity and data synchronization, and argues for the importance of building applications that work seamlessly offline. The post also explores various strategies and technologies that can be employed to achieve local-first development, such as conflict resolution algorithms and peer-to-peer networking. Overall, the article emphasizes the advantages of local-first development in terms of user autonomy, privacy, and resilience.