Pieces
Trump Should Be Removed from Office
This article presents an argument from a Christian perspective for why Donald Trump should be removed from office. The author acknowledges that Christians may have differing views on supporting a political leader, but argues that Trump's actions and character do not align with Christian values. The article highlights instances of dishonesty, immorality, and divisive rhetoric, and suggests that Christians should prioritize integrity and moral character in their leadership. The author also emphasizes the importance of being consistent in holding leaders accountable, regardless of political affiliation. Overall, the article contends that removing Trump from office aligns with Christian principles and upholds the integrity of the faith.
What economists have gotten wrong for decades
This article discusses the relationship between interest rates, unemployment, globalization, the minimum wage, and the deficit in the context of economic policy. It explores how low interest rates, despite their benefits, can have negative consequences like exacerbating income inequality. It also examines how unemployment rates can be influenced by globalization and automation. The article further delves into the debate surrounding the minimum wage and its impact on employment. Lastly, it discusses the role of deficits in economic policy and the potential trade-offs involved. Overall, the article provides an informative analysis of these interconnected economic factors and their implications for policymaking.
Economists on the Run
This article discusses the views of economist Paul Krugman on globalization and trade, particularly in relation to China. Krugman, a Nobel laureate, argues that the benefits of globalization have been oversold and that the United States' approach to trade with China has not worked out as expected. He suggests that China's rise as a manufacturing powerhouse has resulted in significant job losses and wage stagnation in the United States. The article also highlights the broader debate among economists about the impact of trade on domestic economies and the need for more balanced and fair trade policies. Overall, the article provides insights into Krugman's perspective on globalization and its implications.
Dropshipping journalism
This article is a special report on the decline of Newsweek, once a leading news magazine in the United States. It discusses the magazine's history, its rise to prominence, and its subsequent decline. The article explores the challenges Newsweek faced in adapting to the digital age, as well as internal struggles and mismanagement that contributed to its downfall. It also examines the impact of a changing media landscape and the rise of online news sources. The author highlights the lessons that can be learned from Newsweek's decline and reflects on the future of journalism in the face of evolving consumer preferences.
The average American eats 17 teaspoons of added sugar daily. It’s killing us
In this opinion piece, the author discusses the alarming amount of added sugar consumed by the average American, which has detrimental effects on health. Referencing studies, the author highlights the link between excessive sugar consumption and various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the sources of added sugar and making informed choices to reduce its consumption for the sake of public health. It also addresses the role of government, businesses, and individuals in tackling this issue and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Political Operatives Are Faking Voter Outrage With Millions Of Made-Up Comments To Benefit The Rich And Powerful
This article sheds light on the fraudulent practices surrounding the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) public comments process during the net neutrality debate. It reveals that millions of fake comments were submitted using stolen identities, with many of these comments supporting the repeal of net neutrality rules. The article highlights how the impersonation of real individuals in these comments undermined the integrity of public discourse and democratic decision-making. It also discusses the investigation conducted by the New York attorney general's office into this fraudulent activity. The article underscores the importance of addressing and preventing such manipulative tactics in order to uphold transparency and trust in public policy-making.
Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard talks about the sustainability myth, the problem with Amazon—and why it’s not too late to save the planet
In this exclusive interview with Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, he discusses the concept of sustainability and challenges the notion that it is achievable within the current economic system. Chouinard argues that true sustainability requires a fundamental shift in the way we do business. He also expresses concerns about the increasing power of Amazon and its negative impact on local businesses and the environment. Chouinard emphasizes the importance of taking action to address the urgent environmental issues we face and shares his belief that it is not too late to save the planet, but it requires both individual and collective efforts.
Lifting the lid on Japan’s amazing bento boxes
This article delves into the fascinating world of Japanese bento boxes. Bento boxes are traditional Japanese packed lunches that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The article explores the history and cultural significance of bento boxes, emphasizing how they reflect Japanese values of precision, attention to detail, and aesthetics. It details the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these beautiful and balanced meals, highlighting the use of vibrant colors, varied textures, and intricate arrangements. The article also discusses the practicality and efficiency of bento boxes, as they are designed to be portable and easily eaten. Overall, it provides a captivating insight into the art and culture of bento boxes in Japan.
Developers
This blog post from the Chromium team discusses the upcoming changes for developers with the release of Chrome 85. It highlights the removal of the old JavaScript engine in favor of the new V8 engine, which brings improved performance and reduced memory usage. The post also covers the introduction of new APIs and features that enhance web development, such as the WebHID API for accessing human interface devices and the new Web Serial API for communicating with serial devices. It emphasizes the importance of developers being prepared for these changes to ensure their websites and applications are compatible with the latest version of Chrome.
Collision course
This article from The Guardian discusses the rising concerns over pedestrian deaths related to driverless cars. It highlights the several high-profile incidents involving autonomous vehicles hitting and killing pedestrians, sparking a debate about the safety and ethical implications of this technology. The article explores the challenges faced by self-driving cars in detecting and appropriately responding to pedestrians, as well as the limitations of current regulations. It also delves into the public perception and acceptance of autonomous vehicles, emphasizing the need for more transparency and public dialogue regarding their impact on pedestrian safety.
A Physics Magic Trick
This article from The New York Times discusses recent research that suggests graphene, a one-atom-thick layer of carbon, could exhibit superconductivity. Superconductivity is the ability of a material to conduct electric current without resistance, and if graphene can achieve this property, it could have profound implications for various fields, including electronics and energy transmission. The article explains the challenges scientists have faced in trying to create a graphene superconductor and highlights new experimental findings that bring closer the possibility of graphene-based superconductivity. It also highlights the potential applications and benefits of using graphene as a superconductor, such as faster and more efficient electronic devices.
A neural net solves the three-body problem 100 million times faster
This article discusses a breakthrough in solving the "three-body problem" using deep learning. The three-body problem is a mathematical challenge that involves calculating and predicting the motion of three celestial bodies under their gravitational forces. Traditional numerical methods struggle to accurately solve this problem due to its complexity. However, researchers have developed a neural network model that can solve the three-body problem more efficiently, making predictions 100 million times faster than previous methods. The article explains how the neural network was trained using a large dataset and highlights the potential applications of this technology in astrophysics and other fields that involve complex dynamical systems.
OpenAI’s AI-powered robot learned how to solve a Rubik’s cube one-handed
This article discusses the progress made by OpenAI in developing a robotic hand called Dactyl that can solve a Rubik's Cube with one hand. Dactyl is designed to showcase the capabilities of AI and robotics in achieving fine motor skills and dexterity. The article explains how the team trained the robot hand using a combination of reinforcement learning and simulation, enabling it to manipulate and solve the Rubik's Cube. The achievement of solving the puzzle with a single hand is seen as a significant milestone in the field of robotics and AI, showcasing the potential of such technology in various real-world applications.
How to pack a Norwegian sandwich, the world’s most boring lunch
This article dives into the unique Norwegian lunch tradition known as "matpakke." The author explores how matpakke, which consists of open-faced sandwiches, represents a cultural and culinary staple in Norway. The article discusses the history and cultural significance of matpakke, highlighting how it reflects the Norwegian values of simplicity, frugality, and practicality. It also delves into the various types of toppings and ingredients commonly used in matpakke, as well as its role in promoting healthy eating habits among Norwegians. Through exploring the tradition of matpakke, the article provides insights into Norwegian food culture and the ways in which lunchtime differs across different cultures.
Are There Benefits to Drinking Kombucha?
In this article from The New York Times, the author explores the hype around kombucha and its claimed health benefits. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health properties, including improved digestion, immune support, and increased energy. The article investigates the science behind these claims, speaking to experts who provide a balanced perspective on the benefits and limitations of kombucha. It highlights the lack of concrete scientific evidence supporting many of the health claims associated with kombucha, emphasizing the importance of moderation and individual response when incorporating it into one's self-care routine.
A History of Pizza
This article from History Today explores the history of pizza, tracing its roots back to ancient times. It discusses the origins of pizza in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where flatbreads topped with various ingredients were consumed. The article then delves into the evolution of pizza in Naples, Italy, during the 18th and 19th centuries, where it gained popularity among the working class. It also explores the cultural exchange that occurred when Italian immigrants brought pizza to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The article concludes by examining the global popularity of pizza today and the various regional variations that have emerged. Overall, it provides a fascinating look into the historical origins and development of one of the world's most beloved foods.
Four Years in Startups
In this article, the author provides an insightful and reflective account of their four-year experience working in the startup industry. The author shares the challenges, successes, and lessons learned during their journey, highlighting the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of the startup world. They discuss the intensity of the work environment, the pressures of constant innovation and growth, and the struggles of maintaining work-life balance. Through personal anecdotes and observations, the author offers valuable insights into the realities of the startup culture, shedding light on both the exhilarating and exhausting aspects of this entrepreneurial pursuit.
The case against cruises
This article discusses the environmental and social impact of cruise ships. It highlights the pollution caused by cruise ships, focusing on issues such as air pollution from exhaust emissions and the dumping of waste into the ocean. The article also explores the negative effects of cruise ship tourism on local communities, including overcrowding, increased crime rates, and displacement of local businesses. It argues that the cruise industry needs to address these issues and take responsibility for its impact on both the environment and local communities.
24-Hour Solar Energy
This article discusses the use of concentrated solar power (CSP) with molten salt storage as a means to provide 24-hour renewable energy. It highlights the Crescent Dunes solar plant in Nevada as an example of CSP technology and the role of molten salt in its storage capabilities. The article explains how CSP works by using mirrors to focus sunlight onto a tower, which then heats the molten salt and generates steam to power turbines. The molten salt can be stored and used to generate electricity even when the sun is not shining, making it a more reliable and consistent renewable energy source. The article also mentions the potential for CSP with molten salt storage to help address the intermittency challenge of renewable energy and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
The Wave that changed the world
This article discusses the history and impact of the Vietnam War protest movement known as "The Wave." The Wave was a coordinated act of civil disobedience where protesters would appear in public places and silently raise their hands in a gesture of peace. The article explores how The Wave started at Stanford University and quickly spread across the United States and other parts of the world, becoming a powerful symbol of anti-war sentiment during the 1960s. The article highlights the significance of The Wave in shaping public opinion and influencing the eventual end of the Vietnam War. It also discusses the enduring legacy of The Wave as a symbol of protest and unity.
Planting Tiny Spy Chips in Hardware Can Cost as Little as $200
This article discusses a proof-of-concept project that aims to demonstrate the possibility of planting spy chips in hardware. The project involves using a tiny, inexpensive chip developed by Supermicro to gather sensitive information from various devices. The article delves into the controversy surrounding this project, as it raises concerns about the security vulnerabilities of hardware. It also explores the potential implications of such spy chips on national security and privacy. The article concludes by highlighting the need for increased scrutiny and security measures to address this potential threat.
How Anti-Vaccine Sentiment Took Hold in the United States
This article discusses the rise of the anti-vaccination movement in the United States and its impact on public health. It highlights the influence of misinformation and fear-mongering surrounding vaccines, leading to decreased vaccination rates and outbreaks of preventable diseases. The article explores various factors fueling the movement, from social media platforms allowing the spread of misinformation to the involvement of celebrities promoting anti-vaccine views. It also addresses the efforts of health officials, lawmakers, and medical professionals to counteract the movement and promote accurate information about vaccine safety and efficacy. The article emphasizes the importance of vaccination in safeguarding public health and the need for a collective effort to combat vaccine hesitancy and protect communities.
Everyone Thinks They’re Managing by Outcomes. Here’s How to Actually Do it.
This blog post discusses the concept of managing outcomes in product development. It highlights the importance of focusing on outcomes rather than outputs when determining success. The author emphasizes the need for product teams to define clear outcomes that align with the overall goals of the organization. The article provides practical advice on how to effectively manage outcomes, including setting measurable objectives, regularly reviewing progress, and making data-driven decisions. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication within cross-functional teams. Overall, the article serves as a useful guide for product managers in understanding the essential role of outcomes in driving successful product development.
These 526 Voters Represent All of America. And They Spent a Weekend Together.
This interactive article from The New York Times presents a comprehensive study of 526 American voters, aiming to provide a representative picture of the country's diverse political opinions and demographic makeup. The study delves into voter demographics, political affiliations, and policy preferences, highlighting the complexity of American political landscape. The article utilizes visualizations and quotes from the participants to offer insights into the diverse perspectives and issues that shape political beliefs in the United States.
I Worked at Capital One for Five Years. This Is How We Justified Piling Debt on Poor Customers.
This article shares the personal experience of the author, who worked for Capital One for five years and reflects on the company's practices of targeting and extending credit to financially vulnerable customers. The author discusses the pressure within the company to drive profits through credit card sales and the strategies used to justify lending to individuals with low credit scores. The article raises concerns about the ethics of such practices and argues that the focus on profit can sometimes override considerations for the well-being of customers. It provides insight into the inner workings of the credit card industry and encourages readers to critically examine the consequences of lending practices on individuals and society.
An AI learned to play hide-and-seek. The strategies it came up with on its own were astounding.
This article explores recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its ability to learn and play games like hide-and-seek. It highlights a study carried out by OpenAI, an AI research lab, where they developed an algorithm called "OpenAI Five" to teach virtual agents how to play a simplified version of hide-and-seek. The article discusses the challenges the researchers faced in training the AI agents, such as their tendency to exploit glitches in the game environment. It also touches on the implications of AI agents learning to hide and seek, and the potential applications of such AI advancements in fields like robotics and real-world problem-solving. Overall, the article provides an intriguing insight into the progress of AI and its ability to engage in complex games and tasks.
Rent control will make housing shortages worse
This article from The Economist argues against the implementation of rent control policies as a solution to housing shortages. It highlights that while rent control may provide short-term benefits to tenants by limiting rent increases, it ultimately exacerbates housing shortages in the long run. The article explains that rent control discourages developers from building new rental units and incentivizes landlords to convert rental properties into other uses. It also discusses how rent control can lead to deteriorating rental properties and a decline in housing quality. The article concludes that alternative measures, such as increasing housing supply and promoting affordable housing solutions, are more effective in addressing housing shortages.
Silicon Valley Is One of the Most Polluted Places in the Country
This article explores the history of Silicon Valley and its connection to environmental pollution. It highlights how the rapid growth of the technology industry in the region has led to the presence of numerous Superfund sites. These sites are designated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as heavily contaminated areas requiring extensive cleanup. The article examines the toxic legacy of Silicon Valley, including the dumping of hazardous materials by semiconductor manufacturers and the impact of groundwater contamination. It sheds light on the complex relationship between technological progress and environmental consequences, raising questions about the responsibility of the tech industry and the need for environmental regulation.
Don’t Let Metrics Undermine Your Business
This Harvard Business Review article warns against the potential dangers of relying too heavily on metrics in business decision-making. While metrics are important for assessing performance and making data-driven decisions, the article cautions that an overemphasis on metrics can lead to unintended negative consequences. The author highlights three common pitfalls: 1) Metrics being misinterpreted or misunderstood, leading to misguided actions, 2) Metrics that incentivize unethical behavior or neglect important factors that are difficult to measure, and 3) Metrics that create a narrow focus, overshadowing long-term strategy and goals. The article concludes by suggesting a more balanced approach that combines quantitative data with qualitative insights and encourages leaders to question the assumptions and limitations of the metrics they use.
A Secret 1950s Strategy to Keep Out Black Students
This article discusses how the University of Texas (UT) used standardized testing as a strategy to slow down the process of racial integration in higher education. The article focuses on the period between 1957 and 1965 when UT implemented the use of standardized tests as a criteria for admissions. The author argues that these tests were intentionally used to maintain the racial status quo and prevent the enrollment of Black students. The article analyzes the discriminatory policies and practices that were in place during this time, and highlights the impact they had on access to higher education for marginalized communities. It also raises important questions about the ongoing challenges of achieving equity and diversity in education.
The Quest for the Multigenerational City
This article examines the concept of building multigenerational cities that cater to the needs of people of all ages. It discusses the challenges faced by cities in accommodating the diverse needs of different generations, from providing suitable housing options to designing public spaces that facilitate intergenerational interactions. The article highlights the importance of creating inclusive communities that foster social connections and support the well-being of residents of all ages. It also explores successful examples of multigenerational cities around the world, offering insights into how thoughtful urban planning can create environments that promote lifelong learning, healthy aging, and intergenerational empathy.
Is it ever OK to take donations from people like Jeffrey Epstein?
This article examines the ethical implications of accepting donations from individuals with tainted reputations, using the case of Jeffrey Epstein as an example. It delves into the ethical dilemma faced by institutions and organizations that have received donations from Epstein or other controversial figures. The article highlights the argument that accepting money from these individuals can be seen as endorsing or supporting their actions, while also acknowledging the counterarguments that such donations can be used for good causes. It raises questions about the responsibility of organizations to critically assess the sources of their funding and the potential impact on their reputation and credibility. Ultimately, the article explores the complex moral considerations surrounding the acceptance of donations from individuals with questionable backgrounds.
A Famous Argument Against Free Will Has Been Debunked
This article delves into the concept of free will and the important role that neuroscience plays in understanding it. It discusses a study conducted in the 1980s that explored the brain's readiness potential, or 'bereitschaftspotential,' which precedes conscious decision-making. The article highlights how the study's findings challenge the traditional notion of free will, suggesting that our brains may make decisions unconsciously before we are aware of them. It also explores various viewpoints on the topic, including contrasting perspectives from science and philosophy. Ultimately, the article raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of free will and the implications of neuroscience research on our understanding of personal agency.
Where Quantum Probability Comes From
This article dives into the concept of quantum probability and explores its origins. It discusses how the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, give rise to the probabilistic nature of quantum systems. The article explores various interpretations of quantum mechanics and how they try to make sense of the probabilistic behavior of quantum particles. It also highlights the implications of quantum probability for fields such as quantum computing and quantum cryptography. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the origins and significance of quantum probability.
The Case That Made an Ex-ICE Attorney Realize the Government Was Relying on False “Evidence” Against Migrants
This article tells the story of Laura Peña, a former attorney for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), who became disillusioned with the use of unreliable evidence in immigration cases. Peña stumbled upon fraudulent evidence being used to place individuals on a gang database, which opened her eyes to the devastating consequences for migrants and their families. The article exposes the flaws and lack of due process in the government's reliance on this database, highlighting cases where innocent immigrants were falsely labeled as gang members. Peña's journey is a powerful example of how one person's discovery can lead to a greater understanding of systemic issues within the immigration system.
One is Chinese. One is American. How a journalist discovered and reunited identical twins
This article tells the heartwarming story of a journalist who discovered and reunited a pair of identical twins who were separated at birth. The journalist stumbled upon a photo of one of the twins while doing research for an unrelated story. Intrigued, she delved deeper into their story and managed to track down the other twin. The article details the emotional reunion between the twins and their families, as well as the journey of self-discovery and connection that followed. It explores the impact of nature versus nurture and the lifelong bond that these twins were able to form despite being raised in different environments. This inspiring tale highlights the power of investigative journalism and the enduring bond of siblinghood.
DMVs Are Selling Your Data to Private Investigators
This article investigates the practice of state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) selling driver data to private investigators for profit. It discusses how the personal information of millions of drivers, including their names, addresses, and even social security numbers, is being sold to licensed private investigators without the drivers' consent. The article highlights the lucrative business this has become for private investigators who purchase the data and use it for various purposes, such as tracking down debtors or conducting background checks. It also raises concerns about the potential misuse of this data, as it can be exploited by scammers and identity thieves. The article suggests that stricter regulations and oversight are needed to protect individuals' privacy and prevent the unauthorized sale of their personal information by government agencies.