Pieces
How Houston Lost Its Mind Over a Trump Shirt
This article tells the story of a woman in Houston, Texas who was harassed and verbally assaulted for wearing a t-shirt supporting Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign. The incident took place in a yogurt shop, where the woman was confronted by other customers who expressed their strong disapproval of her political stance. The article explores the polarization and tensions that arose during the election season, and the ways in which political differences can lead to animosity and intolerance. It also highlights the impact of social media on public shaming and the amplification of conflicts. Ultimately, the article raises questions about freedom of expression and the challenges of navigating political discussions in a divided society.
American toddlers are eating more sugar than the maximum amount recommended for adults
This article discusses the concerning trend of American toddlers consuming excessive amounts of sugar. It highlights a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that found toddlers aged 19-23 months are consuming an average of 7 teaspoons of added sugar per day, which surpasses the recommended limit for adults. The article explores the potential health consequences of this excessive sugar intake, including an increased risk of obesity, dental problems, and other health issues. It also discusses the sources of added sugar in toddlers' diets, such as sweetened beverages and snacks. The author urges parents and caregivers to be more mindful of the sugar content in the foods and drinks provided to young children.
A Framework for Identity
This article presents a framework for understanding and designing identity systems. It discusses the importance of identity in shaping human behavior and interactions, both online and offline. The framework, called the Identity Spectrum, categorizes identities into three main types: foundational, situational, and behavioral. It explores how these different types of identities interact and shape our sense of self. The article also addresses the challenges of designing identity systems that are inclusive and respect individual agency. It provides examples and practical tips for designing identity experiences that empower users and promote positive interactions. Overall, the article offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the role of identity in design and society.
I know why rejection emails suck. I write them.
In this blog post, Triplebyte discusses the importance of receiving feedback after facing rejection. The article emphasizes that rejection is a normal part of the job search process and highlights the value of learning from rejection experiences. It provides insights into the different types of rejection feedback that job seekers may receive and offers guidance on how to interpret and leverage this feedback effectively. The article encourages individuals to embrace rejection as an opportunity for growth and improvement, ultimately increasing their chances of success in future endeavors.
Gone but Not Deleted
This article discusses the emotional and psychological significance of keeping text messages from loved ones who have passed away. It delves into the ways in which these digital messages can provide a sense of comfort and connection to those grieving the loss of a loved one. The article explores different perspectives on the topic, with some proponents arguing that holding onto text messages helps maintain a connection and preserve memories, while others see it as a way to prolong the grieving process. Overall, the article highlights the complex and deeply personal nature of dealing with the digital remnants of deceased loved ones.
How to beat LinkedIn
This article offers a guide on how to navigate and succeed in using LinkedIn, a professional networking platform. It begins by discussing the competitive nature of LinkedIn and highlights the importance of standing out from the crowd. The author provides tips on creating a compelling profile, optimizing keywords, and building a strong network. Additionally, it advises on the importance of engaging with others, sharing valuable content, and utilizing LinkedIn's various features such as endorsements and recommendations. The article also emphasizes the significance of actively participating in groups, attending events, and leveraging connections for career opportunities. Overall, it offers strategies and insights to help individuals effectively utilize LinkedIn and enhance their professional presence.
The Responsibility of Immortality
This article delves into the ethical implications and responsibilities associated with the potential for immortality through technological advancements. It explores the concept of living forever in a digital form and the challenges it poses in terms of identity, memory, and societal impacts. The article raises questions about the consequences of achieving immortality and the potential for inequality and loss of purpose. It also discusses the role of technology companies and the need for ethical guidelines in navigating the implications of eternal life. Ultimately, it prompts readers to consider the moral and philosophical aspects of pursuing immortality and the responsibility that comes with it.
American tech giants are making life tough for startups
This article discusses how the dominance of American tech giants, such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple, is making it increasingly challenging for startups to compete in the tech industry. It highlights the immense power and resources these companies possess, allowing them to not only squash potential competition but also acquire promising startups before they have the chance to become major players. The article points out that this stifling of competition is detrimental to innovation and limits the diversity of products and services available to consumers. It also addresses the regulatory issues surrounding these tech giants and the need for governments to take action to ensure fair competition.
Why Brainteasers Don’t Belong in Job Interviews
In this article, the author argues against the use of brainteasers in job interviews. He asserts that these types of questions, which often require unconventional thinking or puzzle-solving skills, do not accurately assess a candidate's ability to perform the job tasks. The author points out that brainteasers tend to favor candidates with certain personality traits or prior exposure to similar puzzles, rather than evaluating their actual qualifications for the position. He suggests that interviewers should focus on asking relevant and job-specific questions that truly gauge a candidate's skills and experience. The article emphasizes the importance of fair and effective interviewing techniques.
20aefcb6-377a-11e8-9c0a-85d477d9a226_story.html
This article from The Washington Post tells the story of Tyrone Hankerson Jr., a Howard University student who became the center of controversy and scrutiny after an embezzlement scandal was revealed at the university. The article explores the series of events that led to Hankerson being labeled as a scammer by social media and the public. It delves into the wider issues of financial mismanagement and tensions within the university, as well as the impact of viral videos and social media on shaping public narratives. The article raises questions about whether Hankerson is truly guilty or if he has become a scapegoat in a larger institutional problem.
Demystifying the Signal Protocol for End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)
This blog post aims to demystify the Signal Protocol, which is used for end-to-end encryption (E2EE) in messaging services like Signal and WhatsApp. The article explains the basics of E2EE and how it differs from other encryption methods. It then delves into the technical details of the Signal Protocol, including its double ratchet algorithm, perfect forward secrecy, and its security properties. The author highlights the importance of E2EE in protecting user privacy and provides a clear and concise overview of the Signal Protocol's functionalities and strengths.
The borrowers
This article highlights the thriving library culture in Finland's cities, focusing on the newly opened Oodi library in Helsinki. It discusses how libraries have become more than just repositories of books, but also act as community centers and platforms for various activities and events. The article explores the design and features of the Oodi library, such as its flexible spaces, state-of-the-art technology, and emphasis on user experience. It also discusses the overall love for libraries in Finland, where public libraries play a crucial role in fostering education, literacy, and social integration. The author concludes that Finland's cities have embraced libraries as essential public spaces, prioritizing access to knowledge and learning for all.
The Last Conversation You’ll Ever Need to Have About Eating Right
This article presents an in-depth conversation on the topic of healthy eating and nutrition. It brings together experts from various backgrounds to discuss different aspects of healthy eating, including the role of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in a balanced diet. The discussion covers topics such as the impact of diets on mental health, the role of genetics in determining individual nutritional needs, and the influence of food marketing on our dietary choices. The experts also provide practical advice on how to make healthier food choices, emphasizing the importance of whole foods and mindful eating. Overall, the article offers a comprehensive and informative discussion on the complex and evolving field of healthy eating and nutrition.
He Was Dying. Antibiotics Weren’t Working. Then Doctors Tried a Forgotten Treatment.
This article discusses the rising issue of antibiotic resistance and explores a potential alternative treatment called phage therapy. It explains that phages, also known as bacteriophages, are viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria. The article provides examples of successful phage therapy cases, where it has been used to treat infections that were resistant to antibiotics. It also highlights the challenges and limitations of phage therapy, such as the need for personalized treatments and the difficulty in obtaining regulatory approval. Overall, the article highlights the potential of phage therapy as a promising solution in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Finding Raffi
This article tells the story of a journalist's quest to track down the elusive children's entertainer Raffi Cavoukian. The journalist recounts his childhood memories of Raffi's music and his curiosity about what happened to him. The article follows the journalist's journey as he reaches out to Raffi's former collaborators, attends one of his concerts, and eventually gets the chance to interview Raffi himself. Along the way, the article explores Raffi's impact on children's music, his activism, and his decision to step back from the spotlight. It provides insights into Raffi's personal life and his ongoing commitment to advocating for children's rights and environmental issues.
My Adventures With the Trip Doctors (Published 2018)
This article from The New York Times Magazine is a personal account of the author's experiences with hallucinogenic drugs for medicinal purposes. The author explores their journey of seeking alternative treatments for a range of physical and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. The article delves into the history of psychedelic drugs, their potential therapeutic benefits, and the author's encounters with medical professionals and underground therapists who administer these substances. It also discusses the legal and societal barriers that hinder further research and acceptance of these drugs as legitimate forms of treatment. Overall, the article provides a thought-provoking and informative perspective on the role of hallucinogenic drugs in modern medicine and highlights the potential for transformative experiences and healing.
Exploring KTX for Android
This blog post explores the Kotlin Extensions (KTX) library for Android development. It discusses the benefits of using KTX to write concise and more readable code by leveraging the features of the Kotlin programming language. The article covers various aspects of KTX, including its syntax, extension functions, and property delegation. It also provides examples and code snippets to demonstrate how KTX can simplify common Android development tasks, such as dealing with views, SharedPreferences, and RecyclerView. The author concludes by highlighting the advantages of using KTX and encourages Android developers to explore and adopt this library to enhance their codebase.
one-of-stephen-hawkings-final-scientific-acts-tackling-the-multiverse
This article discusses one of Stephen Hawking's final scientific endeavors, which involved tackling the concept of the multiverse. The multiverse theory suggests that our universe is just one of many parallel universes that exist. Hawking's work in this area focused on the potential evidence for these parallel universes and the possibility of detecting them. He explored whether the existence of these universes could be tested through their influence on cosmic microwave background radiation. The article also highlights Hawking's overall contributions to theoretical physics and his dedication to exploring the mysteries of the universe until the end of his life.
No death and an enhanced life
This article discusses the concept of transhumanism and its potential implications for the future. Transhumanism is a movement that advocates for using technology to enhance human capabilities, with the ultimate goal of achieving immortality. The article examines various technologies and advancements that could contribute to this vision, such as genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and brain-computer interfaces. It also raises ethical concerns and questions about the impact of transhumanism on society, individual identity, and the gap between the privileged few who may have access to these enhancements and the rest of humanity. The article presents different perspectives on transhumanism and invites readers to consider the implications of a future where death could be conquered and life could be significantly enhanced.
The new food
This article delves into the world of lab-grown meat and how it has started to challenge the traditional meat industry. It highlights how a group of scientists and entrepreneurs are working to produce meat without the need for animals, using cellular agriculture techniques. The article explains the reasons behind this endeavor, such as reducing the environmental impact of livestock farming and addressing animal welfare concerns. It also explores the potential benefits and challenges of lab-grown meat, including its scalability and acceptance by consumers. The article concludes by emphasizing the disruptive potential of this technology and how it has sparked the interest and concern of the meat industry.
unlearning-toxic-behaviors-in-a-code-review-culture-b7c295452a3c
In this thought-provoking article, the author discusses the importance of fostering a healthy code review culture and unlearning toxic behaviors within it. They highlight the negative impact that toxic behaviors, such as harsh criticism and personal attacks, can have on the productivity and morale of a development team. The article emphasizes the need for constructive feedback, empathy, and respect in code reviews, providing practical suggestions on how to create a positive feedback loop. By encouraging a culture of learning, collaboration, and growth, the author argues that code reviews can become a valuable tool for personal and professional development in the tech industry.
San Francisco’s Big Seismic Gamble
This interactive article from The New York Times explores the potential consequences of a major earthquake striking the San Francisco Bay Area. It discusses how current building codes and regulations in San Francisco have not adequately addressed the risk of earthquakes, despite the city's location on the tectonically active San Andreas Fault. The article highlights the potential for significant damage and loss of life if a large earthquake were to occur, especially considering the high population density and extensive infrastructure in the area. It also addresses the economic challenges of retrofitting older buildings and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of a seismic event.
Is a Universal Basic Income a Good Idea?
This article examines the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) and explores whether it is a good idea. UBI is a proposed social welfare program that would provide a regular cash payment to every individual regardless of their employment status. The article discusses the potential benefits of UBI, including poverty alleviation, reduction in income inequality, and increased financial security. It also addresses the criticisms and concerns surrounding UBI, such as its cost, potential disincentives to work, and the potential for misuse of funds. The article concludes by suggesting that while UBI may have its merits, careful consideration and implementation are necessary to address the potential challenges associated with this concept.
Getting FIREd
This article from The California Sunday Magazine focuses on the lives of retirees in the technology industry. It explores the unique challenges and opportunities that come with retiring from the tech world. The article highlights different individuals who have left behind successful careers in Silicon Valley to pursue new passions and interests. It delves into the financial considerations of retiring from technology, as well as the psychological and emotional adjustments that retirees face. The article provides an insightful glimpse into the lives of tech retirees and the ways in which they navigate their post-career paths.
Color
This webpage features an interactive demonstration that explains how computers represent and display colors. It dives into the concept of color spaces and the RGB color model commonly used in digital devices. The author walks readers through the process of color representation at the pixel level, discussing RGB values, hexadecimal notation, and bit depth. The demonstration allows visitors to experiment with different colors and see how they are represented in various color spaces. Overall, this webpage provides a comprehensive and interactive explanation of how colors are handled in digital systems.
In 83 Million Eviction Records, a Sweeping and Intimate New Look at Housing in America
This interactive article from The New York Times provides a comprehensive analysis of millions of eviction records in the United States, offering a new perspective on the state of housing in America. The article explores the frequency of eviction cases, the factors contributing to them, and the impact they have on individuals and communities. It highlights patterns such as the disproportionate representation of black renters in eviction cases and the clustering of evictions in certain regions. The analysis also delves into the consequences of evictions, including homelessness and the perpetuation of poverty. This in-depth examination sheds light on the complex issues surrounding housing instability and its far-reaching effects on society.
A New Challenger to Equifax’s Employee Verification Service
This article discusses the emerging trend of companies offering services to verify employment history and income. The Equifax data breach in 2017 resulted in the exposure of personal information for millions of people, including Social Security numbers. As a result, there has been a growing demand for more secure and reliable systems for verifying employment and income. The article profiles a company called Truework that aims to address this need by providing a platform for employees to grant secure access to their employment and income data to authorized third parties, such as lenders or landlords. The article also explores the potential benefits and challenges of using such services for both employees and businesses.
8b4a8202-0417-494b-a72b-792221e08e3b_story.html
This article discusses the challenges of teaching digital literacy to elementary school students in an age of information overload. It highlights the need to empower students to navigate the internet safely and critically evaluate online content. The article emphasizes the importance of teaching students how to verify information, distinguish between fact and opinion, and understand the consequences of their online actions. It also explores the efforts of educators and organizations to develop age-appropriate curriculum and strategies to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital world. Overall, the article underscores the evolving role of educators in guiding students through the complexities of the internet.
What We Know (and Don’t Know) About How to Lose Weight
This New York Times article examines what is known and unknown about weight loss. It discusses various studies and research findings on weight loss methods, including diet, exercise, and behavioral changes. The article highlights that while certain approaches may lead to short-term weight loss, long-term success is often difficult to achieve. It also emphasizes the importance of personalized approaches to weight loss and the complexities of individual metabolism. Overall, the article provides a nuanced perspective on the current state of knowledge regarding weight loss, acknowledging the limitations and uncertainties in this field.
The Scientific Paper Is Obsolete
This article argues that the traditional scientific paper is becoming obsolete in the face of new technological advancements. It discusses the limitations and flaws of the current format, such as its lack of interactivity, limited scope for data presentation, and the slow pace of publication. The article explores alternative methods of communication in science, including preprints, scientific blogging, and open data sharing. It also highlights the benefits of these alternatives, such as increased transparency, collaboration, and accessibility. The author suggests that embracing new modes of scientific communication can lead to more efficient and impactful dissemination of research.
Crispr’d Food, Coming Soon to a Supermarket Near You
This article discusses the potential arrival of CRISPR-edited foods in supermarkets. CRISPR, a revolutionary gene-editing technology, has the potential to make significant changes to the food we eat, including improving crop yields, increasing resistance to pests and diseases, and reducing the need for chemical pesticides. The article highlights some of the potential benefits and concerns surrounding CRISPR-edited foods. It addresses the ongoing debate about the safety and regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the role of consumer acceptance in determining the future of CRISPR-edited foods. The article suggests that, while there are still challenges and uncertainties, CRISPR has the power to transform our food system in the near future.
My Cofounder Said “I love what we’re doing” And We Shut Down Our Startup
This blog post tells the story of a startup founder who decided to shut down their business despite receiving affirmation and support from their co-founder. The author reflects on their journey, highlighting the challenges and milestones they experienced along the way. They explain that even though they believed in their product and had a passionate team, they realized that their target market was not large enough to sustain the business. Despite the love for what they were doing, they made the difficult decision to shut down the startup to avoid wasting time and resources. The post emphasizes the importance of realistic evaluation and the willingness to pivot or let go when necessary in the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship.
Why Whales Got So Big
This article delves into the evolutionary reasons behind why whales have become such gigantic creatures. It explains that one of the main factors contributing to their tremendous size is the shift from hunting small prey to consuming larger marine animals. This change in diet allowed whales to grow in size over millions of years. The article also discusses the concept of gigantothermy, which suggests that the massive size of whales helps them retain body heat in cold ocean waters. Additionally, it explores the benefits of size when it comes to diving deeper and migrating over long distances. Overall, the article provides an insightful look into the fascinating evolutionary journey that led to the impressive size of whales.