Pieces
Commentary
This article examines the impact of India's ancient caste system on the lives of Indian immigrants in Silicon Valley. It highlights the discrimination faced by lower-caste individuals in the tech industry and how it affects their career opportunities, professional growth, and overall quality of life. The author argues that despite being in a progressive and meritocratic environment, the caste system continues to create socioeconomic divisions and hinder social mobility for Indians living abroad. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for awareness, dialogue, and efforts to dismantle the discriminatory practices associated with the caste system in order to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
After Centuries, a Seemingly Simple Math Problem Gets an Exact Solution
This article discusses the recent solution to the 'grazing goat problem,' a mathematical problem that has perplexed mathematicians for centuries. The problem involves calculating the path a tethered goat can take in order to graze on a circular patch of grass, without getting tangled in the tether. The article introduces a mathematician named Aubrey de Grey who has successfully solved this problem using advanced mathematical techniques. The solution involves complex analysis and the use of elliptic functions. The article explains the significance of this achievement in the field of mathematics and highlights the broader implications for other mathematical problems.
‘Christianity Will Have Power’
This New York Times article examines the relationship between evangelical Christians and President Donald Trump. It delves into the reasons why many evangelicals continue to support Trump, despite his controversies and actions that some may consider inconsistent with Christian values. The article analyzes various factors including abortion, religious freedom, Supreme Court appointments, and a shared skepticism of mainstream media and cultural elites. It also explores the view that Trump is seen by some evangelicals as a protector of their faith and values in an increasingly secular and liberal society. The article offers insights into the complex dynamics between evangelicalism, politics, and the Trump presidency.
How Harvard’s Star Computer-Science Professor Built a Distance-Learning Empire
This article delves into the story of EdX, an online learning platform co-founded by Harvard professor Anant Agarwal. It explores how Agarwal, a star computer science professor at Harvard, made significant contributions to the field of online education. The article details Agarwal's vision of providing high-quality education to learners across the globe through massive open online courses (MOOCs). It also highlights the growth and impact of EdX, which has partnered with various universities and institutions to offer a wide range of courses. The article further discusses the challenges and criticisms faced by online education platforms like EdX, while also highlighting the potential benefits and democratization of education that they offer.
From the Magazine
This interactive article from The New York Times Magazine explores the concept of reparations for slavery and its ongoing impact on Black Americans. It delves into the history of slavery in the United States, from its origins to the enduring systemic racism that persists today. The article examines different perspectives on reparations, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the issue. It explores various proposals and approaches to reparations, including direct payments, targeted investments in communities, and educational initiatives. Through a combination of historical analysis, personal narratives, and data visualization, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the complex topic of reparations and its significance in addressing racial injustice.
LOOKING BACK AT 'LOOKING BACKWARD'
In this retrospective article, the author looks back on the 1888 novel 'Looking Backward' by Edward Bellamy and examines its accuracy in predicting the future. The novel depicts a utopian society set in the year 2000, but the author argues that many of the predictions made in the book did not come to fruition. The article discusses how Bellamy's vision of a socialist society and his ideas about labor, gender roles, and technological advancements fell short of becoming a reality. The author provides a critical analysis of the novel's impact and suggests that while it may have been influential at the time of its publication, it ultimately failed to accurately envision the future.
The Pandemic’s Worst-Case Scenario Is Unfolding in Brazil
This article from Bloomberg examines Brazil's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges the country is facing. It highlights Brazil as one of the worst-hit countries, with an alarming number of cases and fatalities. The article delves into the factors contributing to Brazil's struggle, such as political divisions, a lack of leadership, and an overburdened healthcare system. It also explores the economic impacts of the pandemic on Brazil, including rising unemployment and a shrinking economy. The article concludes that Brazil is confronting a worst-case scenario, with a mounting death toll and a precarious situation that requires immediate and effective action.
Is Police Reform A Fundamentally Flawed Idea?
In this article, the author examines the concept of police reform and questions whether it is fundamentally flawed. They highlight the longstanding issues within law enforcement, such as systemic racism and excessive use of force, and argue that reform measures implemented in the past have often fallen short in addressing these problems. The article explores alternative approaches to reform, including defunding the police, community-led initiatives, and accountability measures. It highlights the complexities and challenges associated with police reform and suggests that a more radical reimagining of public safety may be necessary. Overall, the author provides a critical analysis of the current state of police reform and raises important questions about its effectiveness.
52 Blue
This captivating essay tells the story of one man's quest to find the perfect shade of blue. The author begins by describing an encounter with a mysterious color called YInMn Blue, created accidentally by a chemist in 2009. Intrigued by the power of color and its emotional impact, the author embarks on a journey to understand the significance of blue throughout history and across cultures. Through vivid descriptions, the essay takes readers to various locations, from a blue pigment factory in France to the blue city of Chefchaouen in Morocco. Along the way, the author explores the symbolism, science, and cultural significance of blue while reflecting on his personal connection to the color. Ultimately, this thought-provoking piece delves into the complex relationship between color and human experience.
How I Became a Poker Champion in One Year
In this personal essay, the author reflects on their journey to becoming a poker champion in less than a year. The article recounts the author's initial skepticism about the game and the stereotypes surrounding it. It then delves into the author's experiences learning the game, studying strategies, and practicing relentlessly. The author highlight the mental and psychological aspects of poker, including the need for focus, discipline, and emotional control. The essay also explores the role of luck versus skill in the game and the author's transformation from a novice to a successful player. Overall, it provides an insightful and engaging account of the author's rapid progression in the world of professional poker.
The Phoenix Effect
In this blog post, the author discusses the potential of psychedelics in reversing mental age. They explore how psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin and LSD, have been used in clinical and therapeutic settings to treat various mental health conditions. The author delves into research studies and anecdotal evidence that suggest psychedelics can promote neural plasticity, increase neurogenesis, and potentially reverse aspects of cognitive decline associated with aging. They explain that these substances may have the ability to disrupt ingrained patterns of thought and behavior, leading to transformative experiences and enhanced mental flexibility. However, the author acknowledges the need for further research and emphasizes the importance of responsible and informed use of psychedelics.
Why Write ADRs
This blog post discusses the importance of writing Architecture Decision Records (ADRs) in software development projects. ADRs are documents that capture key architectural decisions made during the development process. The blog post highlights the benefits of writing ADRs, including providing a historical record of decisions, fostering communication and collaboration among team members, and aiding in onboarding new team members. It emphasizes that documenting architectural decisions can prevent future mistakes, facilitate understanding of the project's evolution, and serve as a valuable resource for future reference. The blog post encourages software developers and teams to adopt the practice of writing ADRs as a means of improving transparency, decision-making, and overall project success.
The Last Giraffes on Earth
In this article, the author explores the challenges and techniques involved in capturing and moving giraffes for conservation purposes. By following the efforts of a team from the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the article sheds light on the complex logistical operation required to safely capture, sedate, and transport giraffes. It delves into the unique anatomy and behavior of giraffes, which pose numerous obstacles to successful relocation. The author highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect giraffe populations in the face of habitat loss and poaching. Overall, the article offers a fascinating insight into the intricate process of relocating these majestic creatures.
Sixty Years of Green Eggs and Ham
This blog post celebrates the 60th anniversary of the beloved children's book "Green Eggs and Ham" by Dr. Seuss. The author reflects on the enduring popularity of the book, which has sold millions of copies worldwide. He discusses how "Green Eggs and Ham" was born out of a bet between Dr. Seuss and his publisher that he couldn't write a book using only 50 different words. The post traces the evolution of the book, its initial rejection by multiple publishers, and its eventual success. It also highlights the book's themes of trying new things and the power of persuasion. Overall, the blog post pays tribute to the timeless charm and impact of "Green Eggs and Ham" on generations of readers.
Rethinking the Science of Skin
This article presents a critical examination of the science of skin, challenging established notions about the functions and properties of skin. It explores how scientific studies on skin have traditionally focused on its protective barrier and its role in maintaining body temperature, while overlooking other important aspects. The article discusses recent research that suggests a more nuanced understanding of skin, including its sensory capabilities, its role in communication and social bonding, and its connection to the immune system. It argues for a broader perspective on skin and urges scientists and society to reconsider the significance and potential of this complex organ.
OpenAI's GPT-3 may be the biggest thing since bitcoin
In this blog post, the author discusses OpenAI's GPT-3 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3), a language model that has gained significant attention for its impressive capabilities. The author provides an overview of GPT-3's architecture, its training process, and highlights some of its notable use cases, such as natural language processing, content generation, and chatbots. Additionally, the author emphasizes the potential ethical implications and societal impacts of GPT-3, including concerns regarding misinformation, privacy, and the impact on job markets. Overall, the blog post provides a comprehensive introduction to GPT-3, shedding light on its capabilities, limitations, and the broader implications of its development.
I Started Khan Academy. We Can Still Avoid an Education Catastrophe.
In this opinion article, the author discusses the challenges faced by schools during the coronavirus pandemic and the shift to online learning. The author argues that the widespread adoption of digital learning has exacerbated existing inequalities in education, as not all students have equal access to technology or the internet. The article highlights the negative impact on disadvantaged students who may lack the necessary resources or support at home to fully participate in remote learning. The author concludes by urging policymakers to address these disparities and invest in equitable educational solutions for all students.
How to Outrun a Dinosaur
This article discusses the evolution of outrun music and its revival in recent years. Outrun music, characterized by its retro-futuristic sound inspired by 1980s electronic music and video games, has gained popularity in various forms of media and subcultures. The article traces the origins of outrun music from its roots in movies like Blade Runner and video games like Out Run. It also explores how this genre has influenced contemporary artists and how it has become a symbol of nostalgia and escapism. The article highlights how outrun music has created a unique and immersive experience for its listeners, transporting them to a neon-lit cyberpunk world.
You’re Showering Too Much
In this thought-provoking article, the author challenges the prevailing obsession with hygiene and cleanliness. They argue that excessive cleanliness can have negative consequences on our health and overall well-being. The article explores various scientific findings that suggest exposure to certain bacteria and germs can actually strengthen our immune systems. It delves into the concept of the hygiene hypothesis, which suggests that a lack of early exposure to germs and dirt may be contributing to the rise in allergies and autoimmune diseases. The author also touches on the psychological impact of excessive cleanliness and the importance of a balanced approach to hygiene. Overall, the article encourages readers to reconsider the idea that hygiene is always beneficial and advocates for a more nuanced understanding of cleanliness.
Why Statistics Don’t Capture The Full Extent Of The Systemic Bias In Policing
This article from FiveThirtyEight delves into the limitations of statistics when it comes to capturing the systemic bias in policing. While statistics can provide valuable insights into patterns of police behavior, they often fail to capture the whole picture. The article argues that statistics tend to focus on individual encounters or incidents, while systemic biases are deeply ingrained into the structure and culture of policing. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing these biases beyond what can be measured by numbers alone. The article also discusses the potential for alternative data sources, such as community surveys, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of systemic bias in policing.
The remains of the astronaut Vladimir Komarov, a man who fell from space, 1967
This webpage features a collection of rare historical photos, with a specific focus on the tragic story of astronaut Vladimir Komarov. It provides a detailed account of the ill-fated Soyuz 1 mission in 1967, which resulted in Komarov becoming the first person to die during a spaceflight. The article describes the technical malfunctions and design flaws of the Soyuz spacecraft that led to the tragic outcome. It also showcases the haunting photographs of Komarov in his spacesuit, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of early space explorers. Overall, this webpage offers a poignant glimpse into a significant event in space history and pays tribute to the human endeavor of space exploration.
The Looming Bank Collapse
In this thought-provoking article, the author explores the potential economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic on banks and the financial system. It discusses the various factors that could lead to a collapse of the banking industry, including rising loan defaults, declining asset values, and a decrease in bank profits. The article also examines the role of government intervention and stimulus packages in mitigating the potential crisis. While acknowledging the resilience of the banking system, the author raises concerns about the long-term impact of the pandemic and urges policymakers to take proactive measures to prevent a collapse and safeguard the stability of the financial system.
Librarians turned Google Forms into the unlikely platform for virtual escape rooms
This article discusses how librarians are using Google Forms to create and conduct virtual escape rooms for educational and entertainment purposes. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing people to stay at home, educators and librarians have been finding innovative ways to engage students remotely. Virtual escape rooms offer a fun and interactive way for students to learn and solve puzzles from the comfort of their own homes. The article highlights some examples of these virtual escape rooms, which range from educational topics to popular book-inspired themes. It also emphasizes the benefits of this format, such as fostering problem-solving skills, teamwork, and critical thinking. Overall, the article showcases how Google Forms and virtual escape rooms are being utilized as effective tools for homeschooling and remote education.
How Do We Change America?
In this New Yorker column, the author discusses the complexities and challenges of bringing about meaningful change in America. Drawing on historical examples, the article examines the various strategies used by activists and reformers to effect lasting societal change. It highlights the importance of building broad coalitions, navigating the political system, and mobilizing public opinion to achieve desired outcomes. The author also addresses the resistance and obstacles encountered during times of change, emphasizing the need for persistence and adaptability. Overall, the article offers a thought-provoking exploration of the mechanisms and considerations involved in changing America.
The Weaponization of Diversity
In this blog post, the author discusses the concept of diversity and its potential for being weaponized. The post highlights how some corporations and organizations have used diversity as a shield to deflect criticism and avoid accountability for unethical or discriminatory practices. It raises concerns about the superficial approach to diversity that focuses solely on representation, rather than addressing systemic issues. The author argues for a more nuanced understanding of diversity that goes beyond numbers and superficial gestures, and instead focuses on creating inclusive and equitable environments. The post encourages readers to critically examine the ways in which diversity can be manipulated for ulterior motives, emphasizing the need for genuine and meaningful change.
The 1619 Chronicles
In this opinion piece, the author examines the criticisms surrounding The New York Times' 1619 Project, a major journalistic initiative that aimed to reframe the understanding of American history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the center. The article highlights various objections raised by historians and conservatives regarding the project's historical accuracy, ideological bias, and impact on education. The author also acknowledges the ongoing debates and challenges faced by the project, and emphasizes the importance of constructive engagement in grappling with the complex and contentious issues related to America's history of slavery and racism.
Why So Many Police Are Handling the Protests Wrong
In this article, the author examines the reasons behind the mishandling of protests by many police departments. It highlights how the aggressive tactics often used by law enforcement can further escalate tensions and fuel unrest. The author argues that inadequate training, a lack of community policing, and a culture of militarization within police forces contribute to these issues. The article emphasizes the importance of de-escalation techniques and a more collaborative approach to law enforcement in order to prevent unnecessary violence and build trust with the community. Overall, it calls for a reevaluation of police strategies and a shift towards more effective and peaceful methods of managing protests.
‘The Little Mermaid’ Was Way More Subversive Than You Realized
This article explores the subversive elements present in the classic Disney film, "The Little Mermaid." It delves into the underlying messages and themes that were largely overlooked by viewers. The article highlights the rebellious nature of the main character, Ariel, who challenges traditional gender roles and norms. It also discusses the ecological themes present in the film, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. Furthermore, the article examines the film's exploration of longing for freedom and self-expression. It ultimately argues that "The Little Mermaid" is more than just a fairy tale, but a layered narrative that addresses complex societal issues.
Tempering Expectations for GPT-3 and OpenAI’s API
In this blog post, the author discusses the expectations, limitations, and potential of OpenAI's GPT-3 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3) language model. The article dives into the hype surrounding GPT-3 and highlights both the impressive capabilities of the model and its shortcomings. It explores various examples of GPT-3's performance, such as generating code, writing essays, and answering questions. The author also examines the challenges and ethical concerns associated with GPT-3, including potential biases and the need for human oversight. Overall, the blog post provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and future prospects of GPT-3 in the context of natural language processing.