Pieces
A Vaccine Reality Check
This article provides a reality check on the development and distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine. It emphasizes the importance of patience and realism in the process, debunking some common myths and misconceptions associated with vaccine development. The author discusses the challenges of vaccine testing, manufacturing, and distribution, highlighting the need for thorough research and rigorous safety protocols. Additionally, the article addresses concerns about vaccine effectiveness, availability, and the potential for vaccine-related side effects. Overall, it reminds readers to approach vaccine development with an understanding of the complexities involved and to rely on scientific evidence and expertise.
COVID-19 Cases Are Rising, So Why Are Deaths Flatlining?
This article explores the decline in the COVID-19 death rate and delves into the factors that may have contributed to this trend. It highlights the improvements in medical knowledge and treatments, as well as the healthcare system's preparedness and response. The article also discusses the demographics of those who were affected by the virus early on and how the changing patterns of transmission have played a role in the declining death rate. Furthermore, it acknowledges that while the overall death rate has decreased, certain communities and vulnerable populations still face disproportionate risks. Overall, the article provides insights into the complex reasons behind the decrease in COVID-19 deaths.
The Virus Will Win
In this thought-provoking article, the author argues that the COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented existential threat that will ultimately triumph over humanity. Drawing on historical examples and expert opinions, the author contends that despite our efforts to combat the virus, its ability to mutate and adapt poses a significant challenge. The article discusses how the pandemic has exposed the flaws and vulnerabilities in our societal structures and highlights the consequences of our collective failures in addressing the crisis. It also examines the potential long-term impacts on various aspects of society, including healthcare, the economy, and politics. Ultimately, the article raises important questions about the future and the need for a radical reevaluation of our priorities and strategies in the face of this ongoing global threat.
How Police Unions Became Such Powerful Opponents to Reform Efforts
This New York Times article investigates the powerful role of police unions in shaping law enforcement policies and protecting officers accused of misconduct. Focusing on the case of Bob Kroll, the head of the Minneapolis police union, the article explores how these unions often hinder efforts to hold officers accountable for their actions. It highlights Kroll's controversial statements and his resistance to reform measures, which has contributed to strained relationships between the police and the communities they serve. The article delves into the influence of police unions on disciplinary processes, negotiations for favorable contracts, and the overall culture within police departments. Ultimately, it raises important questions about the role of unions in the fight for meaningful police reform.
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This article discusses the benefits of intermittent fasting not only for weight loss but also for heart health. It explains that intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, and research has shown that it can have positive effects on several aspects of health. The article highlights studies that have found intermittent fasting to be effective in reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart disease. It also mentions that intermittent fasting may have other health benefits, including improved brain function and longevity. Overall, the article presents intermittent fasting as a promising approach to improving both weight and heart health.
I’m a Developer. I Won’t Teach My Kids to Code, and Neither Should You.
In this thought-provoking article, the author argues against the idea of teaching kids to code at a young age. They highlight the importance of a well-rounded education that includes a wide range of subjects and skills, rather than focusing solely on coding. The author believes that early specialization in coding can limit a child's exposure to other valuable areas of learning, such as art, music, sports, and critical thinking. They argue that teaching kids a diverse set of skills will better equip them to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Ultimately, the author encourages parents to prioritize a well-balanced education for their children rather than solely focusing on coding.
The Rogue Experimenters
In this New Yorker article, author Kate Murphy explores the controversial world of unconventional medical treatments and the rogue experimenters who champion them. The article highlights various experimental treatments, such as DIY fecal transplants and unregulated ketamine infusions, and examines the motivations and justifications of those who engage in these practices. It raises questions about the ethical implications and potential dangers of these unapproved treatments, and explores the gray area between medical innovation and reckless experimentation. Through interviews and anecdotes, the article provides a thought-provoking look at the world of rogue experimenters and the potential risks and benefits of their unconventional medical practices.
The messy, secretive reality behind OpenAI’s bid to save the world
This article reveals the inner workings and challenges of OpenAI, an artificial intelligence research lab founded by Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Greg Brockman. It delves into the lab's "moonshot" mission to develop AGI (artificial general intelligence) and the complexities that come with it. The article highlights the tension between OpenAI's vision for democratized AI and the pressures to keep its research secretive due to concerns regarding superintelligent AI. It explores the lab's organizational structure, its investments, and the potential risks and impacts of AGI. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of both the ambition and the practical realities of OpenAI's pursuit of AGI.
Riot
This article from Wired discusses the wave of riots that occurred in 2011 across the world, particularly in the UK. It explores various factors that contributed to the riots, such as social media's role in organizing and spreading information, economic inequality, and underlying social tensions. The article explores different perspectives on the causes of the riots, including frustrations with law enforcement, government austerity measures, and the economic crisis. It also delves into the aftermath of the riots, including discussions about the role of technology in future protests and the potential for both positive and negative outcomes. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex factors at play during the riots and their implications for society.
Learning to Swim Taught Me More Than I Bargained for (Published 2020)
In this article, the author shares a personal narrative about her journey to learn how to swim as an adult. She reflects on her childhood fear of water and how it hindered her ability to swim. The article explores the mental and emotional barriers she had to overcome and the transformative experience of finally learning how to swim. The author discusses the process of confronting her fears and the empowering feeling of gaining confidence in the water. Through her story, she highlights the importance of facing our fears and embracing new challenges. Overall, the article serves as an inspirational account of personal growth and resilience.
It’s a razor’s edge we’re walking
This article provides an insight into the global effort to develop a vaccine for COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. It highlights the urgency and challenges faced by scientists and pharmaceutical companies in their race to find a solution to the pandemic. The article discusses various approaches being taken to create a vaccine, including traditional methods of using inactivated viruses as well as more innovative approaches like mRNA-based vaccines. It also touches upon the ethical and logistical considerations involved in conducting clinical trials and ensuring equitable distribution of any successful vaccine. Overall, the article sheds light on the complex process of vaccine development and the global collaboration taking place to combat the COVID-19 crisis.
Joe Biden’s effort to heal the breach with Elizabeth Warren on bankruptcy, explained
This article discusses the different approaches to bankruptcy reform proposed by Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren. It highlights how bankruptcy laws have been a topic of debate in the United States, with differing opinions on how to address the issue. The article delves into Biden's plan, which focuses on supporting existing bankruptcy laws and making some tweaks to reduce abuses. On the other hand, it explores Warren's more progressive plan, which aims to overhaul the bankruptcy system and make it easier for individuals to discharge their debts. The article provides a comparison of the two approaches, analyzing their potential impact on individuals and the overall economy.
Would a baseball card lie? Cracking the great Don Mattingly mystery
This article delves into the mystery surrounding a baseball card featuring Don Mattingly, a former professional baseball player. The card in question is from the 1987 Topps set, and it shows Mattingly celebrating what appears to be his birthday. However, it has been a topic of debate among fans and collectors as to whether the date on the card is accurate or not. The article discusses the efforts made by a group of collectors to investigate and determine the true date of the photo. It recounts their research, including analyzing the position of the sun and shadows in the picture, comparing it to known events and dates, and even reaching out to Mattingly himself. In the end, the article reveals the conclusion to the mystery and provides insights into the process of solving such a puzzling question in baseball card history.
What a Toilet Can Do
This article from Stanford Magazine explores the impact of innovative toilet design on global health and sanitation. It highlights the importance of access to clean and safe sanitation facilities for human well-being and discusses how traditional flush toilets are not feasible in many parts of the world due to lack of infrastructure and water scarcity. The article introduces various alternative toilet designs, such as composting toilets and self-contained units, which don't require water or sewage systems. It also discusses the potential of these innovative designs to address challenges related to waste management, water conservation, and public health in underserved communities. The article showcases the efforts of both engineers and social entrepreneurs in developing and implementing these solutions to create a positive impact on sanitation worldwide.
The Great Barrier Reef’s Great Big Complicated Story
This article discusses the future of the Great Barrier Reef and emphasizes the responsibility of humans in its preservation. It highlights the challenges faced by the reef due to climate change, pollution, and over-tourism. The article emphasizes that immediate action is needed to protect and restore the reef, including reducing carbon emissions and implementing sustainable practices in tourism. It also highlights the importance of public awareness and support in order to drive change and ensure a future for this iconic natural wonder. Overall, the article calls for collective efforts to safeguard the Great Barrier Reef and highlights its significance as a global treasure.
How the Pandemic Will End
This article from The Atlantic discusses the possible outcomes of the coronavirus pandemic and how it might eventually end. It explores various scenarios, including the development of a vaccine, antibody immunity, and herd immunity. The article also delves into the potential long-term impacts of the virus on society, such as changes in public health infrastructure and the way we work and travel. It concludes that the end of the pandemic will likely come through a combination of medical advancements and societal adaptation, although the timeline and specific outcome remain uncertain.
What Went Wrong with Coronavirus Testing in the U.S.
This article is an analysis of what went wrong with coronavirus testing in the United States. It discusses the initial delays in testing due to the CDC's decision to create its own testing kit instead of using the WHO-approved kits. The article also highlights the bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory obstacles that hindered the ramping up of testing capacity. It delves into issues such as limited testing supplies, delays in FDA approvals, and the lack of a coordinated national testing strategy. The author argues that these failures in testing have had significant consequences for the U.S. response to the pandemic.
The Dangers of Moving All of Democracy Online
In this opinion piece, the author highlights the potential dangers of moving democracy completely online. While acknowledging the convenience and accessibility of digital platforms for democratic processes, the article raises concerns about the risks associated with solely relying on technology for voting, campaigning, and decision-making. The author argues that the digital realm is susceptible to cybersecurity threats, manipulation, and misinformation campaigns, which pose serious risks to the integrity of democratic processes. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between online and offline democratic practices to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
mirandas-rebellion
This article from The Washington Post examines the story of Miranda Fennessy, a 17-year-old high school student who organized a protest against her school's dress code. The article delves into the broader issue of students challenging dress codes across the country, highlighting how these policies disproportionately target and enforce gender norms. It discusses the ways in which students like Miranda are advocating for dress code reforms, emphasizing the importance of promoting body positivity, inclusivity, and individual expression. The article also touches on the debate surrounding dress codes and their impact on students' self-esteem, identity, and freedom of expression.
Facebook Engineering
This website showcases the redesign process of Facebook's website. It provides an overview of the goals and motivations behind the redesign, along with the challenges faced during the process. The article highlights the importance of improving the user experience and making the interface more intuitive and responsive. It discusses the various design principles and techniques employed to achieve these goals, such as simplifying navigation, optimizing loading times, and enhancing accessibility. The website also showcases visual redesigns and prototypes, giving visitors a glimpse into the future look and feel of Facebook. Overall, it provides insights into the considerations and efforts undertaken by Facebook's engineering team to enhance the user experience.
The Pandemic Will Reduce Inequality—or Make It Worse
This article examines how the coronavirus pandemic is likely to impact inequality. It discusses how the economic fallout from the pandemic is expected to disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and communities. The article highlights how job losses, reduced wages, and limited access to healthcare will exacerbate existing inequalities. It also explores the potential long-term consequences, such as a widening wealth gap and an increase in social unrest. Additionally, the article discusses the role of government policies in mitigating or exacerbating inequality during this crisis. Overall, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the various ways in which the pandemic is expected to impact inequality.
The chemistry of cold-brew coffee is so hot right now
This article delves into the chemistry behind the rising popularity of cold brew coffee. It explains how cold brew differs from traditional hot brewed coffee in terms of extraction process and flavor profile. The article discusses the solubility of coffee compounds at different temperatures and how the cold brew method can result in a less acidic and smoother cup of coffee. It also explores the various factors that affect the flavor of cold brew, such as brew time, grind size, and water-to-coffee ratio. Additionally, the article highlights the growing interest in the science and chemistry of coffee brewing techniques. Overall, it provides insights into the chemical processes that contribute to the unique characteristics of cold brew coffee.
Landmark Computer Science Proof Cascades Through Physics and Math
This article discusses a landmark computer science proof called the 'cap set problem' and its implications in the fields of physics and mathematics. The proof, which involves finding patterns in sets of numbers, has far-reaching implications for cryptography, network security, and quantum information theory. The article explains the significance of the proof and provides insights into how it will shape future research and technology. It highlights the collaborative effort involved in solving the problem and the interdisciplinary nature of modern scientific discoveries. Overall, the article showcases the profound impact of computer science on various scientific disciplines.
Inside the Story of How H-E-B Planned for the Pandemic
This article discusses how H-E-B, a popular supermarket chain in Texas, prepared for the coronavirus pandemic. It highlights the proactive steps taken by the company in response to the crisis, such as implementing safety measures, stocking up on essential items, and ramping up online shopping capabilities. The article emphasizes how H-E-B's long-standing disaster preparedness culture and strong supply chain management allowed them to quickly and effectively respond to the challenges posed by the pandemic. It also highlights the support and appreciation expressed by customers towards the supermarket chain for its efforts during this time. Overall, the article showcases H-E-B as a model for crisis response and highlights the importance of preparedness in the face of a pandemic.
How the Horrific 1918 Flu Spread Across America
This article provides a summary of the historical account of the bubonic plague in 1665-1666, as recorded in "A Journal of the Plague Year" by Daniel Defoe. The book is a fictionalized account based on real events and provides a vivid and detailed description of the devastation caused by the plague in London. The article highlights the fear, desperation, and resilience of the people during the outbreak and discusses how the city responded to the crisis with quarantine measures and the establishment of pest-houses. It also explores the social and economic impacts of the plague and reflects on the enduring relevance of Defoe's work in understanding and learning from past pandemics.
Capitalism’s Favorite Drug
In this thought-provoking article, Michael Pollan explores the complex relationship between humans and the beloved beverage, coffee. Pollan discusses how the cultivation and consumption of coffee has evolved throughout history, from its origins as a sacred plant in Ethiopia to its global popularity today. He delves into the science behind coffee's stimulating effects and its impact on our brains and bodies. The article also delves into the environmental and social consequences of the coffee industry, addressing issues such as deforestation, fair trade, and the exploitation of workers. With his characteristic blend of storytelling and research, Pollan prompts readers to reconsider their daily coffee rituals and invites them to ponder the broader implications of their choices.
The Quiet Revolution of Animal Crossing
This article argues that the popular video game Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just an escapist form of entertainment, but rather a platform that allows for political expression and exploration. The author discusses how Animal Crossing provides players with the ability to create and customize their own virtual islands, fostering a sense of agency and control. They highlight examples of players using the game to engage in activism, protests, and political discussions within its virtual world. The article also addresses the limitations and controversies surrounding the game's political potential. Overall, it suggests that Animal Crossing can serve as an important platform for social commentary and political expression in a unique and interactive way.
The Great Model Train Robbery
This article delves into the unsolved crime known as "Britain's Great Model Train Robbery." The heist, which took place in 2019, involved the theft of a valuable collection of model trains worth millions of pounds. The article explores the intricate planning and execution of the robbery, highlighting the vulnerabilities in the security systems that were exploited. It also discusses the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to solve the case, including the use of advanced forensic techniques. Despite their efforts, however, the perpetrators remain unidentified, making this robbery one of Britain's most intriguing unsolved crimes.
The Nuclear Family Was a Mistake
In this thought-provoking article, the author challenges the idealization and historical significance of the nuclear family structure in American society. They argue that the nuclear family, consisting of a heterosexual couple and their children, is a relatively recent and inherently flawed concept that emerged in the 1950s. The article explores the social and cultural factors that contributed to the rise of the nuclear family and examines its limitations in addressing diverse family structures and promoting individual well-being. It discusses how the pressure to conform to this model can lead to isolation, inequality, and a lack of support systems. Ultimately, the author suggests that a more inclusive and supportive approach to family structures is needed, emphasizing the importance of community and social connections for a healthier and more fulfilling society.
Stop Touching Your Face!
This article from The New York Times discusses the transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19) through hand-to-face contact. It explains that the virus can enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth if contaminated hands come into contact with these areas. The article emphasizes the importance of avoiding touching the face in order to reduce the risk of infection. It suggests strategies such as mindfulness exercises and keeping hands busy to minimize unconscious face touching. The article also provides advice on proper hand hygiene and highlights the need for public health campaigns to raise awareness about this aspect of virus transmission.
Coke and Pepsi Are Getting Sued for Lying About Recycling
This article highlights a lawsuit filed against Coca-Cola and PepsiCo for misleading claims about their recycling efforts. The lawsuit alleges that the companies have overstated the amount of plastic bottles they actually recycle. It argues that the companies' marketing campaigns, which promote their commitment to recycling and sustainability, are deceptive. The article discusses the negative environmental impact of plastic bottles and the importance of accurate and transparent information regarding recycling. It also raises questions about the responsibility of corporations in addressing the global plastic waste crisis. The lawsuit serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding recycling and the need for companies to ensure their claims align with their actual practices.
You’re Likely to Get the Coronavirus
This article discusses the development and potential impact of a COVID-19 vaccine. It provides an overview of the current global efforts to develop a vaccine against the coronavirus, including the challenges of creating a vaccine that is both safe and effective. The article highlights the importance of widespread vaccination in controlling the spread of the virus and returning to normalcy. It also addresses concerns about vaccine skepticism and misinformation, emphasizing the need for accurate scientific information to combat vaccine hesitancy. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive look at the ongoing global efforts to develop a COVID-19 vaccine and the potential implications for public health.
TV has a new kind of heroine
This article discusses the expansion of Netflix's content aimed at younger audiences, specifically focusing on two shows: "The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia" and "Diary of a Future President." The article highlights how these shows are attempting to fill the void left by the end of Disney Channel's dominance in kids' TV programming. It explores how both shows focus on diverse, inclusive storytelling and aim to provide positive role models for young viewers. The article also mentions the trend of streaming services like Netflix investing in content for younger audiences to compete with traditional children's networks. Overall, it emphasizes the significance of these shows in shaping the landscape of children's programming and catering to the changing preferences of young viewers.