Pieces
The Case for the Self-Driven Child
This article presents the case for allowing children to take control of their own lives and learn at their own pace. It argues against the more traditional approach of adult-directed activities and structured schedules. The article highlights the benefits of self-directed learning, such as increased motivation, self-confidence, and better problem-solving skills. It also emphasizes the importance of play in children's development and how it fosters creativity and resilience. The author suggests that by giving children freedom and autonomy, they become more capable and independent individuals. Overall, the article asserts that allowing children to be self-driven can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling learning experiences.
The 11 cities most likely to run out of drinking water - like Cape Town
This BBC article provides an overview of the ongoing conflict in Yemen. It highlights the key events and factors that have contributed to the current crisis, including the involvement of regional powers such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. The article explains how the conflict has led to immense human suffering, with millions of people facing food shortages and disease outbreaks. It also discusses the complex political dynamics at play, involving multiple armed groups and factions. The article concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for a political solution and international assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people.
You thought quantum mechanics was weird
This article delves into the concept of entangled time in quantum mechanics and explores how it challenges our understanding of cause and effect. It explains that entanglement, a phenomenon where particles can become interconnected regardless of the distance between them, extends beyond space to also affect the temporal dimension. The article discusses how entangled time can result in what appears to be retrocausality, where events in the future can influence events in the past. It explores various thought experiments and scientific theories that hint at the existence of entangled time. The author concludes by highlighting the profound implications entangled time could have on our understanding of the nature of reality and the connections between different points in time.
Too Much Netflix, Not Enough Chill
This article discusses the trend of young Americans having less sex than previous generations. It explores various factors that contribute to this decline, including the rise of technology and social media, the prevalence of online dating and hookup apps, changing attitudes towards relationships and commitment, and the impact of economic factors such as student loan debt. The article also highlights the potential consequences of this trend, such as decreased social skills and increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Overall, it suggests that the decline in sexual activity among young Americans is a complex issue influenced by a combination of societal, cultural, and technological factors.
‘The Intellectual Properties of Learning’
In this interview, the author discusses their new book on intellectual history and open access in academia. The author explores the impact of open access on the scholarly publishing industry, focusing on the transition from traditional subscription-based models to open access models. The book delves into the historical evolution of open access and the various challenges and opportunities it presents for scholars, publishers, and libraries. It also examines the role of intellectual property, copyright, and the democratization of knowledge in the digital age. The author highlights the importance of open access in promoting the accessibility and dissemination of scholarly research, while also acknowledging the need for sustainable funding models.
Eating Leafy Greens Each Day Tied to Sharper Memory, Slower Decline
This article from NPR discusses a study that suggests eating leafy greens daily may have cognitive benefits and help maintain a sharp mind. The study followed a group of older adults for a few years and found that those who regularly consumed leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, had a slower cognitive decline compared to those who ate fewer leafy greens. The article highlights that these vegetables are rich in nutrients like folate, vitamin K, and lutein, which have been linked to brain health. While the study does not prove causation, it adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of a healthy diet in maintaining brain function.
The World Might Be Better Off Without College for Everyone
In this thought-provoking article, the author questions the value and purpose of a college education in today's society. The article explores the traditional view that college is a path to success and a guarantee of a prosperous career, and challenges this notion by examining the rising cost of tuition, the changing job market, and the skills needed for success in the modern workforce. It argues that while college can provide valuable experiences and opportunities for personal growth, it doesn't always directly translate into career success or happiness. The author suggests that instead of viewing college as the only path to success, we should focus on developing a diverse range of skills, embracing lifelong learning, and finding alternative routes to personal and professional fulfillment.
The Shallowness of Google Translate
This article discusses the limitations and shortcomings of Google Translate. It highlights how the popular translation tool often fails to accurately capture nuances, cultural context, and idiomatic expressions. The article acknowledges the impressive progress of machine translation technology but argues that it still falls short in providing truly accurate and comprehensive translations. It discusses various examples where Google Translate produces awkward or inaccurate translations, emphasizing the importance of human translators in preserving the subtleties of language. The article concludes by noting that while Google Translate is a useful tool, it should not be relied upon for complex translations or important communication.
The UX of AI
The website design.google/library/ux-ai/ is a resource for information and insights on the intersection of user experience (UX) design and artificial intelligence (AI). The page offers a collection of articles, case studies, and research papers related to the topic. It delves into how AI is being integrated into the design process, the challenges and considerations for UX designers working with AI technologies, and the potential impacts on user interactions and experiences. The content on the website aims to inform and inspire UX designers by providing a deeper understanding of the opportunities and implications of incorporating AI into their work.
Fellow Engineers
In this blog post, the author discusses the importance of understanding the business side of engineering. They emphasize that engineers often focus solely on technical skills but fail to grasp the economic value they bring to their organizations. The post explains the various ways engineers generate revenue, including through product development, cost savings, and efficiency improvements. It also emphasizes the importance of effectively communicating the value of engineering work to non-technical stakeholders. Overall, the article serves as a reminder to engineers to be aware of their contribution to the financial success of their organizations.
Dangerously Low on Water, Cape Town Now Faces ‘Day Zero’
This article from The New York Times discusses the severe water crisis faced by Cape Town, South Africa, and the concept of 'Day Zero,' which refers to the day when the city's water supply would be shut off. The article provides an overview of the factors that led to the crisis, including a combination of drought, population growth, and mismanagement of water resources. It highlights the desperate measures taken by the city to conserve water and the impact on the daily lives of its residents. The article also explores the long-term implications of the water crisis and the lessons that other cities can learn from Cape Town's experience.
This Is Why Understanding Space Is So Hard
This blog post addresses the challenging nature of understanding space and the universe. It discusses the limits of human perception and the difficulties in comprehending vast distances and cosmic scales. The article explores concepts such as the expansion of the universe, the concept of infinity, and the limitations of our senses. It argues that our brains are not evolutionarily equipped to understand the complexities of space, leading to struggles in grasping its true nature. Overall, the post highlights the intrinsic difficulty in comprehending and visualizing the vastness and complexity of the universe.
Why does it cost $32,093 just to give birth in America?
This article delves into the high costs associated with giving birth in America. It highlights the staggering price tag of $32,093 for an average uncomplicated birth, making the United States one of the most expensive countries in the world for childbirth. The article explores the factors contributing to these costs, including hospital fees, medical interventions, and the lack of price transparency in the healthcare system. It also discusses the challenges faced by uninsured or underinsured individuals who bear a disproportionate burden of these expenses. The article calls attention to the need for healthcare reform to address the exorbitant costs of childbirth in America.
Why an Old Theory of Everything Is Gaining New Life
This article discusses the resurgence of the theory of everything known as "E8." The E8 theory suggests that there is a unifying mathematical structure underlying all the fundamental forces and particles in the universe. The article explores physicist Garrett Lisi's work on E8 and how his unconventional approach has gained attention within the scientific community. It examines the challenges and criticisms faced by Lisi's theory, as well as the potential implications and future directions of research in the field. Overall, the article highlights the ongoing search for a unified theory and the renewed interest in the E8 theory as a possible candidate.
Training Your Brain So That You Don’t Need Reading Glasses
This article from The New York Times discusses a study that suggests it is possible to train the brain to see clearly without the need for reading glasses, even as we age. The study focused on a technique called perceptual learning, which involves training the brain to better process visual stimuli. Participants in the study engaged in simple visual tasks on a computer screen for a set period of time each day and saw significant improvements in their near-far vision. The article also discusses the potential implications of this research for the development of treatments for various eye conditions. Overall, the study suggests that it is possible to improve visual acuity through targeted brain training.
Why People Dislike Really Smart Leaders
This article delves into the phenomenon of why people tend to dislike leaders who are exceptionally intelligent. Drawing from various psychological studies and theories, it explores the reasons behind this pattern. One hypothesis is that people perceive highly intelligent leaders as a threat to their own status and self-esteem, causing them to harbor feelings of resentment and envy. Another possible explanation is that highly intelligent leaders may struggle with interpersonal skills and fail to connect with their subordinates on an emotional level. This article provides insightful analysis into the complexities of leadership perception and sheds light on the challenges faced by exceptionally intelligent individuals in leadership positions.
Keep webpack Fast
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide for improving build performance in Webpack, a popular module bundler for JavaScript applications. It discusses various strategies and techniques to optimize build times, including code splitting, tree shaking, and caching. The post delves into the impact of different configuration options and provides best practices for optimizing performance in different scenarios. It also covers advanced topics such as parallelizing builds and leveraging Webpack's internal mechanisms to boost performance. Whether you are a beginner looking to optimize your Webpack builds or an experienced developer seeking to fine-tune performance, this guide offers valuable insights and actionable tips.
How to see a memory
This article discusses the current state and the future of artificial intelligence (AI) research. It highlights the challenges faced by AI researchers, including the lack of explainability and trustworthiness of AI systems. The article also explores the potential applications of AI in various fields such as healthcare, transportation, and space exploration. It emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address ethical and social implications of AI technologies. The author argues for a responsible and human-centered approach to AI development, focusing on transparency, fairness, and accountability. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges in the field of AI.
The Fall of Travis Kalanick Was a Lot Weirder and Darker Than You Thought
This article provides an in-depth look into the fall of Travis Kalanick, the co-founder and former CEO of Uber. It delves into the events leading up to his resignation and uncovers the darker and more bizarre aspects of his leadership. The article highlights some of the questionable business practices and toxic culture that prevailed under his leadership, including allegations of sexual harassment and a disdain for regulations. It also explores the internal power struggles within Uber's board of directors and the ultimate decision to remove Kalanick from his position. Through interviews and insider accounts, the article paints a complex and revealing picture of the downfall of one of Silicon Valley's most controversial figures.
The Strange Brands in Your Instagram Feed
This article delves into the world of sponsored content and influencer marketing on Instagram. It investigates the phenomenon of lesser-known brands gaining popularity through Instagram advertisements and influencers. The article highlights how these brands use targeted marketing strategies to reach specific demographics and create a sense of exclusivity and authenticity. It explores the challenges faced by consumers in distinguishing between genuine endorsements and paid promotions, as well as the potential impact on traditional advertising. The author questions the blurred lines between content and advertising on Instagram and raises concerns about the implications for both consumers and the future of advertising.
The forgotten history of how automakers invented the crime of "jaywalking"
This article delves into the history of jaywalking, a term commonly used to describe pedestrians crossing the street outside designated areas. It traces the origins of jaywalking back to the early 20th century when automobile companies promoted the idea that streets were primarily for cars, not pedestrians. The article discusses how jaywalking laws were introduced as a means to prioritize automobile traffic over pedestrian safety. It also examines how jaywalking enforcement has been racially biased, disproportionately targeting Black pedestrians. The author concludes by questioning the necessity of jaywalking laws and advocating for more pedestrian-friendly urban planning.
Our Best Hope for Civil Discourse Online Is on ... Reddit
This article from WIRED discusses the challenges and complexities of free speech on the internet, particularly on platforms like Reddit. The author focuses on the subreddit 'Change My View,' where people engage in debates in an attempt to have their beliefs challenged and potentially changed. The article explores the delicate balance between promoting open discourse and preventing hate speech or harassment. It also delves into the underlying issues that arise when trying to moderate such a platform, including the challenges of defining and enforcing rules fairly. The article ultimately highlights the importance of creating spaces for constructive debate while acknowledging the difficulties of navigating the boundaries of free speech.
‘I regret having children’
This website showcases a collection of personal stories from mothers who regret becoming parents. The stories provide a raw and honest perspective on the challenges and struggles that some women face in motherhood. The narratives cover various aspects such as the loss of personal freedom, the overwhelming responsibility, and the impact on mental and physical health. The website aims to shed light on a less talked about topic and offer support and understanding to mothers who may be experiencing similar feelings of regret. It encourages open conversations and empathy around the complex emotions related to motherhood.
Our Year of Living Dangerously
This article reflects on the political and global events that unfolded in 2017, characterizing it as a "year living dangerously." It highlights the numerous challenges and crises faced by the international community, including the North Korean nuclear threat, political turmoil in the Middle East, and the rise of populism and nationalism in various countries. The article examines the impact of these events on global stability and reflects on the potential consequences for the year ahead. It emphasizes the need for effective leadership and international cooperation to address these pressing issues and ensure a more secure future.
The Diary of a Settler of Catan
In this humorous piece, the author presents a fictional diary entry from a player of the popular board game Settlers of Catan. The diary entry describes the player's experiences as they try to negotiate trades, build settlements, and compete for resources in the game. It humorously captures the frustrations and triumphs of playing Settlers of Catan, including the constant need for brick and wood, the cutthroat nature of negotiations, and the disappointment of rolling low numbers. Through the diary format, the author provides an entertaining glimpse into the world of Settlers of Catan and the strategic and often comical challenges it presents.
Meet the Nerds Coding Their Way Through the Afghanistan War
This article introduces readers to a group of Afghan coders who are using their skills to make innovative contributions amidst the ongoing war in Afghanistan. It highlights the challenges they face in a country torn by conflict, including limited infrastructure and ongoing threats from the Taliban. Despite these obstacles, the article showcases how these coders are developing apps and tech solutions to address various issues, such as improving access to healthcare, increasing transparency in government, and empowering Afghan women. Their work serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of these individuals to bring positive change to their war-torn nation.
The latest trend for tech interviews
This article discusses a concerning trend in the tech industry, where job interviews for programmers now often include days of unpaid homework assignments. It highlights how companies are increasingly using take-home coding exercises as a way to assess candidates' skills and suitability for a position. The article explores the potential drawbacks and ethical concerns associated with this approach, such as the significant time commitment required from job applicants and the exploitation of free labor. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of such assignments in accurately evaluating a candidate's abilities. The article concludes by suggesting that companies should reconsider their hiring practices and find more equitable and efficient ways to evaluate programmers during the hiring process.
The Real Future of Work
This article from Politico Magazine discusses the future of work and the rise of independent contractors and alternative work arrangements. It explores how the gig economy and technological advancements have led to a shift in the traditional employer-employee relationship. The article highlights the benefits and drawbacks of this trend, including the potential for greater flexibility and autonomy for workers but also concerns about job security and lack of benefits. It also examines the role of government policies and regulations in addressing these new work arrangements. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolving landscape of work and its impact on both individuals and society as a whole.
Why Raspberry Pi isn't vulnerable to Spectre or Meltdown
This blog post explains why Raspberry Pi devices are not vulnerable to Spectre or Meltdown, two major security vulnerabilities that affected many computer systems. The post highlights the design choices made by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, specifically regarding the CPU architecture and memory management, that prevent these vulnerabilities from being exploitable on Raspberry Pi devices. It provides technical details about how Spectre and Meltdown attacks work and why they do not pose a threat to the Raspberry Pi. The blog post reinforces the security and reliability of Raspberry Pi devices, making them a safe choice for users concerned about these widespread vulnerabilities.
The Psychology of Inequality
This article from The New Yorker delves into the psychology of inequality and its effects on individuals and society as a whole. It discusses research findings that show how inequality can lead to increased stress, decreased trust, and lower life satisfaction. The article also explores the concept of the "psychology of poverty," highlighting how living in poverty can create a scarcity mindset and further perpetuate economic disparities. Additionally, it examines the impact of inequality on social and political attitudes, including a greater sense of injustice and a reduced belief in the fairness of social systems. Overall, the article provides insights into the psychological implications of inequality and its potential consequences.
The Google Brain Team — Looking Back on 2017 (Part 1 of 2)
This blog post reflects on the accomplishments and milestones of the Google Brain team over the past year. The Google Brain team focuses on research in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The post discusses various projects undertaken by the team, such as advancements in computer vision, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning. It also highlights collaborations with other research institutions and the open-source community. The blog post ends by emphasizing the team's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment.
Tea if by sea, cha if by land
This article presents an interactive map that visually illustrates how the word for "tea" spread across different languages and cultures around the world. It explores the two main linguistic streams of the word for tea: 'te' and 'cha'. The map showcases the origins of these terms and their routes of diffusion, highlighting how they spread through land and sea trade routes to conquer different regions. The article discusses the various theories behind the origin of these terms and the historical context of tea's global dissemination. It provides an engaging and informative exploration of the cultural and linguistic impact of tea on different societies.
A journey through a land of extreme poverty
This article from The Guardian discusses the issue of extreme poverty in America. It highlights a report by the United Nations special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, which indicates that the United States has the highest rate of income inequality among developed countries. The report explores the systemic issues contributing to the prevalence of extreme poverty in the country, including inadequate access to healthcare, education, and social support programs. It also addresses racial disparities and how poverty disproportionately affects minority communities. The article emphasizes the urgent need for policy changes and a comprehensive approach to combatting poverty in America.
When Does Work Actually Get Done?
This article examines the concept of productivity in the modern workplace and discusses whether traditional work hours and settings are conducive to getting work done. It explores the factors that can affect productivity, including office distractions, meetings, and the pressure to appear busy. The article also explores alternative work arrangements, such as flexible schedules and remote work, and how they can enhance productivity. It argues that focusing on results and outcomes, rather than hours worked, is a more effective measure of productivity. The author concludes by suggesting that employers should prioritize creating an environment that allows employees to work in a way that maximizes their productivity.
We took the world’s most scientific personality test—and discovered unexpectedly sexist results
This article discusses the results of a scientific personality test called the Big Five personality traits, focusing on the unexpected gender biases found in the test results. The test measures five dimensions of personality: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. The article reveals that the test showed bias in assigning stereotypically masculine traits to men and feminine traits to women, regardless of their actual personality. The findings highlight the limitations and biases that can be present in scientific research, urging for greater consideration of diversity and inclusion when designing and interpreting such tests.
Turning brain signals into useful information
This article from The Economist's Technology Quarterly explores the challenges and opportunities in utilizing data extracted from the human brain. It discusses various methods of extracting brain data, such as neuroimaging and brain-computer interfaces, and explores the potential applications in fields like healthcare, education, and marketing. The article highlights the importance of data privacy and ethical considerations when dealing with brain data, and discusses the need for standardized protocols and collaboration among researchers. It concludes by emphasizing the potential for brain data to revolutionize various aspects of human life, but also acknowledges the complex ethical and practical considerations involved.
How JavaScript works
This blog post is the first in a series that aims to explain how JavaScript works. It starts by providing a high-level overview of JavaScript, discussing its purpose and role as a programming language for the web. The post then delves into the JavaScript runtime environment, explaining the concept of an event loop and how JavaScript code is executed. It also covers topics such as the call stack, heap, and garbage collection. Overall, this post serves as an introductory guide to understanding the fundamental workings of JavaScript.
Exercise Alters Our Microbiome. Is That One Reason It’s So Good for Us?
This article from The New York Times discusses the relationship between exercise, gut bacteria, and overall health. It highlights recent research that suggests regular exercise can positively influence the diversity and abundance of gut bacteria, which in turn can have numerous health benefits. The article presents findings that show how exercise can enhance the production of short-chain fatty acids, improve the integrity of the gut lining, and reduce inflammation. It also discusses the potential implications of these findings for weight management and the prevention of various chronic diseases. Overall, the article explores the emerging field of exercise microbiology and its potential impact on human health.
As Flow of Foreign Students Wanes, U.S. Universities Feel the Sting
This New York Times article discusses the decline in international student enrollment at universities in the United States. The article highlights various factors contributing to this decline, including changes in government policies, concerns about safety and discrimination, and the increasing competitiveness among other countries' higher education systems. It explores the economic and cultural impact of the decrease in international students on American universities and local communities. The article also provides perspectives from university administrators, students, and experts in the field. Overall, it highlights the challenges and implications of the declining international enrollment trend in the United States.
Toilet Paper History
This article delves into the history of toilet paper and how America popularized its use worldwide. It traces the evolution of toilet paper from ancient times when various materials like leaves, ceramics, and even seashells were used for hygiene purposes. The article highlights the role of Joseph Gayetty, who invented the first commercially available toilet paper in the United States in 1857. It goes on to discuss the advancements and challenges faced by the toilet paper industry over the years, including the introduction of perforated rolls and the impact of the Great Depression. The article also explores cultural differences in restroom practices and the global adoption of toilet paper as a standard hygiene product. Overall, it provides an informative and engaging overview of how toilet paper became a common commodity in households worldwide.
Most Personality Quizzes Are Junk Science. I Found One That Isn’t.
In this article, the author explores the world of personality quizzes and the scientific validity behind them. They argue that most personality quizzes found online are based on unreliable methods and lack empirical evidence. However, they highlight one particular personality quiz developed by psychologists that stands out as being scientifically sound. The quiz, called the Big Five Inventory, is based on extensive research and has been widely accepted by the scientific community. The author discusses the five personality traits that the quiz measures and explains how this quiz differs from others in terms of its accuracy and reliability. Overall, the article sheds light on the pitfalls of many personality quizzes while highlighting one that is considered to be more legitimate.
In the time you spend on social media each year, you could read 200 books
This article highlights the amount of time people spend on social media compared to the time it takes to read books. It states that the average person spends around 608 hours per year on social media, which is equivalent to approximately 200 books. The article suggests that the time spent on social media could be better utilized by reading books, which can provide intellectual and emotional benefits. It also mentions the importance of finding a balance between online activities and offline pursuits. The article serves as a reminder of the potential impact of excessive social media use on personal development and suggests alternative ways to make use of our time.
Formal Verification
This blog post discusses the concept of formal verification in software development and the gap that exists between writing perfect code and the realities of real-world applications. The author highlights the importance of formal methods and tools in ensuring the correctness and reliability of software. Formal verification techniques such as model checking, theorem proving, and static analysis are explored, with a focus on their potential benefits and limitations. The post also addresses the challenges and trade-offs associated with incorporating formal verification into the software development process. Overall, the article emphasizes the need for a balance between formal verification and other testing methodologies to achieve a higher level of software quality.
California's middle class homeless living in parking lots
This article highlights the plight of middle-class Californians who have been forced into homelessness, often resorting to living in their cars in parking lots. It discusses the skyrocketing cost of housing in California, coupled with stagnant wages, as the main contributing factors to this alarming trend. The article interviews individuals who have found themselves homeless despite being employed and middle-class. It also sheds light on the lack of affordable housing options, overcrowded shelters, and the challenges faced by those living in their vehicles. The article serves as a reminder of the homelessness crisis and the struggles faced by the middle class in California.