Pieces
The Dying Art of Disagreement
In this thought-provoking opinion piece, the author discusses the diminishing art of disagreement in our society. He argues that the ability to engage in productive and respectful disagreement is essential for a healthy democracy and intellectual growth. The article explores various factors contributing to the erosion of civil discourse, such as social media echo chambers and the rise of "outrage culture." The author emphasizes the importance of actively seeking out opposing views and engaging in constructive dialogue to foster understanding and progress. Overall, the article calls for a revitalization of the art of disagreement as an essential element of democratic society.
Why SQL is beating NoSQL, and what this means for the future of data
This blog post discusses the advantages of using SQL (Structured Query Language) over NoSQL (Not only SQL) for managing data, particularly in the context of time-series databases. The author highlights the scalability, flexibility, and robustness of SQL databases compared to NoSQL alternatives. They argue that SQL's declarative nature allows for easier data manipulation and querying, making it more suitable for complex data analysis tasks. The post also emphasizes the importance of standardization and compatibility, suggesting that SQL's widespread adoption and ecosystem contribute to its superiority. Overall, the author predicts a promising future for SQL databases in handling time-series data.
Trump Gives White Supremacists an Unequivocal Boost
This New York Times article discusses President Trump's response to the violent events that occurred in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017, where white nationalists clashed with counter-protesters. The article highlights the controversy surrounding Trump's statements, particularly his initial reluctance to explicitly condemn white supremacists and his subsequent condemnation of violence on "many sides." It also analyzes the political implications of Trump's response and the criticism he faced for not unequivocally denouncing white nationalism. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the events and the ensuing backlash, shedding light on the debates surrounding racism and extremism in America.
Is America Headed for a New Kind of Civil War?
In this article from The New Yorker, the author explores the question of whether America is on the brink of a new kind of civil war. The article examines the current political and social tensions in the United States, including the deep divisions between political parties, increasing polarization, and the rise of extremist groups. It discusses the historical context of the Civil War and compares it to the present-day situation, highlighting similarities and differences. The author interviews various experts and analyzes different scenarios that could potentially lead to a new civil war. Ultimately, the article raises thought-provoking questions about the state of the nation and the potential consequences of ongoing division.
Netflix, Microsoft, and Google just quietly changed how the web works
This article discusses recent changes made by Netflix, Microsoft, and Google that have had a significant impact on how the web functions. It highlights the transition from old HTTP protocols to a more secure, encrypted version known as HTTPS, and how these tech giants played a role in accelerating this shift. The article explains the advantages of HTTPS, such as improved privacy and security for users, as well as the potential downsides, such as the concentration of power and control in the hands of a few dominant companies. It also touches on the challenges faced by smaller websites and the potential implications for internet censorship. Overall, the article explores the changing landscape of the internet and the power dynamics at play.
A Brain Built From Atomic Switches Can Learn
This article discusses a groundbreaking experiment in which researchers constructed a brain-like neural network using atomic switches. The researchers created a network of atomic-scale devices that emulates the function of neurons in the brain. They found that this network, called a 'memristive network', was capable of learning and adapting, just like a biological brain. The article explains that this research could lead to the development of more efficient and powerful artificial intelligence systems, as well as shed light on the fundamental processes underlying learning and memory in the human brain. The experiment demonstrates the potential for creating brain-like computational systems using atomic-scale devices.
Effective Collaboration
This blog post discusses the importance of effective collaboration in software development teams and how it can contribute to the success of projects. It highlights the common misconception that superstar developers working individually can deliver exceptional results. The article argues that in reality, collaboration among team members is crucial for problem-solving, knowledge sharing, and overall productivity. It emphasizes the importance of creating a positive team culture based on trust, open communication, and mutual respect. The blog post also provides practical tips and strategies for fostering effective collaboration in development teams, such as establishing clear goals, encouraging continuous learning, and leveraging agile methodologies. Overall, it underscores the value of collaboration in bringing out the best in developers and creating successful software projects.
The Impossible Burger
This article explores the rise and success of the Impossible Burger, a plant-based burger designed to taste like real meat. It discusses the science behind the Impossible Burger and how it uses a protein called heme to mimic the taste and texture of meat. The article also delves into the challenges faced by the company in creating a product that appeals to meat-eaters, including achieving the right combination of ingredients and scaling up production to meet demand. It further explores the environmental benefits of plant-based foods and the potential impact of the Impossible Burger on the meat industry. Overall, the article provides an in-depth look at the innovative technology behind the Impossible Burger and its potential to revolutionize the way we think about and consume meat.
How to Hack Your Brain (for $5,000)
This New York Times article delves into the concept of 'flow' and its significance in psychology. Flow is defined as a state of optimal experience where individuals are fully immersed and focused on an activity, feeling a sense of energized focus and enjoyment. The article explores the origins of flow theory by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and highlights its potential benefits, such as increased productivity and overall well-being. It also discusses how to achieve a state of flow by seeking challenging activities that align with one's skills and interests. Additionally, the article touches on the role of technology and distractions in hindering flow experiences and offers insights for incorporating flow into everyday life.
A Quiet Revolution in Botany
This article delves into the concept of "vernalization," which refers to the process by which certain plants require a period of cold exposure in order to flower. The author discusses how plants have the ability to "remember" temperature fluctuations and use this memory to time their flowering accordingly. They highlight specific examples of plants that rely on vernalization, such as winter wheat and some biennial flowers. The article also explores the mechanisms through which plants sense and store temperature information, including epigenetic changes. Overall, it provides an intriguing insight into the hidden complexities of plant life and their remarkable adaptive strategies.
WikiTribune taster
This article introduces the Wikitribune platform and its mission to promote the United Nations Global Goals. It discusses a meeting where influential figures came together to discuss and support these goals. The article highlights the importance of tackling global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality. It also mentions the role of journalism and the need for reliable, unbiased reporting to inform and engage readers in these critical issues. Wikitribune aims to provide accurate, collaborative journalism that empowers people to be informed and participate in shaping a sustainable future. The article serves as a taster for the platform and its commitment to covering stories related to the UN Global Goals.
The Great Tech Panic
In this article, the author challenges the common fear that robots and automation will lead to widespread job loss. They argue that while some jobs may be automated, new jobs and industries will emerge as a result. The author discusses historical examples of technological advancements and their impact on employment, highlighting that while there may be displacement, overall employment levels have continued to rise. They also emphasize the importance of humans in areas that require creativity, empathy, and complex problem-solving skills, which are difficult to automate. The author concludes by encouraging a shift in mindset from fear to embracing the opportunities and benefits that automation can bring.
The Suburb of the Future, Almost Here
This article from The New York Times examines the changing preferences of millennials when it comes to suburban living. It discusses how millennials, often stereotypically associated with urban living, are starting to show interest in suburban communities. The article highlights several reasons for this shift, such as a desire for more space, affordability, and the appeal of good schools for future family planning. However, it also notes that millennials are looking for suburban areas that offer urban amenities and walkability. The article suggests that as this generation continues to age and establish families, their preferences and needs will shape the future of suburban communities.
The Great Tech Panic
In this article, the co-founder and CEO of Instagram, Kevin Systrom, discusses his vision for cleaning up the internet. He acknowledges the negative impact social media can have on society and expresses a commitment to addressing issues such as cyberbullying, fake news, and harmful content. Systrom highlights Instagram's efforts to improve user safety by implementing stronger algorithms, enhancing community reporting, and increasing transparency. He also emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive online environment and empowering users to have control over their online experiences. Systrom's goal is to make the internet a safer, more inclusive space for everyone.
Everything You’ve Been Taught About How To Read a Book Is Wrong
This article challenges conventional wisdom about how to read a book effectively. It argues that the traditional approach of reading a book from cover to cover and focusing on comprehension and retention may not be the most efficient or beneficial way to approach reading. The author suggests that instead of reading linearly, readers should engage in active reading by previewing the book, identifying key ideas, and selectively reading chapters or sections that are most relevant or interesting to them. This approach allows readers to focus on the parts of the book that are most valuable to them and encourages critical thinking and engagement with the material. The article emphasizes the importance of personalization and adaptability in the reading process, advocating for a more flexible and individualized approach.
To treat back pain, look to the brain not the spine
This essay argues that in order to effectively treat back pain, medical professionals should focus on the brain rather than solely on the spine. The author discusses the complex nature of chronic back pain and how it is influenced by psychological and emotional factors. The essay highlights the inadequacies of traditional treatments such as surgery and medication, which only address the physical aspects of the condition. Instead, the author suggests that understanding the brain's role in pain perception and utilizing techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy can lead to more effective and holistic treatment approaches for back pain.
The great nutrient collapse
This article discusses a study that suggests rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are reducing the nutrient content of certain food crops. The study found that increased CO2 levels lead to a decline in key nutrients such as iron, zinc, and protein in staple crops like wheat, rice, and soybeans. The article explains that this phenomenon occurs because plants use carbon dioxide to fuel their growth, diverting resources away from nutrient production. The implications of this decline in nutrient content are significant, as it can negatively impact global food security and human health, particularly in regions that heavily rely on these crops for sustenance.
Top 10 ES6 features by example
This blog post highlights the top 10 features introduced in ECMAScript 6 (ES6) through practical examples. It begins by explaining the significance of ES6 in modern JavaScript development and then proceeds to showcase various features such as arrow functions, template literals, block scope variables, and destructuring assignments. The post provides concise code snippets to demonstrate how each feature can be utilized to write cleaner and more efficient code. It also emphasizes the benefits of using ES6 features in terms of improved readability, maintainability, and reduced bugs. Overall, the post serves as a handy reference for developers looking to leverage the power of ES6 in their JavaScript projects.
Man down
This article explores the reasons why men often suffer from depression in silence. It highlights societal expectations and traditional gender roles that discourage men from seeking help or expressing their emotions. The article discusses how these expectations can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and a reluctance to reach out for support. It also addresses the traditional view that depression is a sign of weakness in men, leading them to suffer in silence instead of seeking treatment. The article emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health to encourage men to seek help and openly address their struggles with depression.
How should we protest neo-Nazis? Lessons from German history
This article discusses the topic of protesting neo-Nazis and draws lessons from German history. It explores the complex issue of how societies should respond to extremist ideologies and argues that active resistance, both legally and socially, is necessary. The author highlights the importance of learning from Germany's history, particularly in relation to the rise and fall of the Nazi regime. The article suggests that documenting and understanding the strategies used by anti-Nazi activists can provide valuable insights for contemporary movements. It also emphasizes the significance of grassroots organizing, community involvement, and countering hate speech with education and awareness. Ultimately, the article encourages readers to consider various approaches and strategies for confronting neo-Nazi ideologies and promoting tolerance.
Decentralized Social Networks Sound Great. Too Bad They’ll Never Work
This article discusses the challenges and limitations of decentralized social networks. It acknowledges the appeal of these networks, which aim to give users more control over their data and eliminate the dominance of centralized platforms. However, the article argues that despite their potential benefits, decentralized social networks face significant hurdles in terms of user adoption, scalability, and moderation. It explores various technical and social obstacles that hinder the widespread adoption of decentralized platforms, such as the network effect, user experience drawbacks, and the risk of enabling extremist content. The author ultimately suggests that while decentralized social networks have promising ideals, their practical implementation may never fully overcome these hurdles.
What every software engineer should know about search
This article discusses the fundamentals of search algorithms and their importance in software engineering. It emphasizes the significance of understanding various search techniques for software engineers, regardless of their specific domain. The article covers topics such as indexing, retrieval, relevance, ranking algorithms, and search optimization. It also provides insights into the challenges engineers face when implementing efficient search functionalities, such as handling large datasets and optimizing search performance. Overall, the article serves as a comprehensive guide for software engineers to enhance their knowledge and skills related to search algorithms.
Flamingos In The Men's Room
This NPR article explores how zoos and aquariums prepare and handle hurricanes to ensure the safety of their animals. It discusses the protocols and precautions taken by these institutions, including moving animals to secure indoor locations, stocking up on supplies, and establishing emergency plans. The article highlights specific examples, such as the Miami Zoo's strategy of rounding up their flamingos and relocating them to a public restroom during Hurricane Andrew. It also addresses the challenges faced by smaller zoos and aquariums with limited resources. Overall, the article provides insight into the measures taken by zoos and aquariums to protect their animals during severe weather events.
The Risk of Nuclear War with North Korea
This article from The New Yorker discusses the increasing risk of nuclear war with North Korea. It examines the historical context of North Korea's nuclear program and the escalating tensions between the country and the United States. The article highlights the unpredictability of both the North Korean regime and the current U.S. administration, which has led to a dangerous stand-off. It also examines the potential consequences of a nuclear conflict, emphasizing the catastrophic humanitarian and environmental impact it would have. The author argues for the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and international cooperation to mitigate the risk of a nuclear war.
Michigan Gambled on Charter Schools. Its Children Lost.
This article examines the impact of charter schools in Michigan and raises concerns about their effectiveness in providing quality education. It highlights how Michigan has become a national leader in charter school expansion but lags behind in regulating and holding them accountable. The article explores the financial motivations behind charter school growth, as well as the lack of oversight and accountability measures that have allowed for the proliferation of underperforming charter schools. It also discusses the negative consequences of this approach, including low academic achievement and segregation. The article concludes by questioning the long-term effects of a system that prioritizes choice and competition over the well-being of students.
California's homelessness crisis expands to country
This article from the San Francisco Chronicle discusses the ongoing homelessness crisis in California. It highlights how homelessness has become increasingly visible in cities across the state and explores the underlying causes of the crisis, including rising housing costs, lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, and drug addiction. The article also explores the impact of homelessness on the economy, public health, and the overall well-being of both homeless individuals and the general population. It further examines the efforts being made by local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to address the issue and provides insights into the ongoing challenges faced in finding effective solutions to combat homelessness in California.
What Is to Be Done?
This article discusses the case of Barrett Brown, a journalist and former spokesperson for the hacktivist collective known as Anonymous. It highlights Brown's legal battles and imprisonment following his involvement with Anonymous and his reporting on intelligence contractors. The article explores the larger implications of Brown's case for press freedom, government transparency, and the use of hacking and whistleblowing as tools for activism. It also delves into the limitations and challenges faced by journalists and activists in the digital age. The author raises questions about the role of journalists in holding power accountable and suggests that Brown's case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting free speech and investigative reporting.
What We Get Wrong About Technology
In this thought-provoking blog post, the author challenges common misconceptions about technology and its impact on society. He argues that we often overestimate the short-term impact of new technologies while underestimating their long-term effects. The author illustrates this point by discussing historical examples, such as the underwhelming initial reaction to the telephone and the dominance of the automobile. He also emphasizes the importance of considering unintended consequences and how technology can reshape society in ways we might not anticipate. Overall, the article encourages readers to approach technological advancements with a more nuanced and skeptical mindset.
U.S. Employers Struggle To Match Workers With Open Jobs
This NPR article discusses the challenge faced by U.S. employers in finding qualified workers to fill open job positions. It highlights the growing skills gap and the mismatch between the skills employers are seeking and the skills possessed by job seekers. The article explores the reasons behind this mismatch, including changing job requirements and a lack of investment in workforce training. It also examines the impact of automation on certain industries and the need for workers to develop new skills. The article concludes by discussing potential solutions, such as improving education and training programs, and promoting collaboration between employers and educational institutions.
For Tax Reform Lessons, Congress Needn’t Look Far
This article from The New York Times discusses the prospect of tax reform in the United States. It highlights the challenges faced by Congress in trying to pass a comprehensive tax overhaul. The article notes that while President Trump and Republican leaders in Congress share a goal of simplifying the tax code and reducing tax rates, they hold different views on specific details of reform. It explores the divisions within the Republican Party and the obstacles that have hindered progress in enacting significant tax changes. The article also provides insights into the potential impact of tax reform on individuals, businesses, and the economy as a whole.
Study
This article discusses the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) and its potential impact on economic growth. It presents a study conducted by the Roosevelt Institute which simulates the effects of implementing a $1,000 monthly cash transfer to each American adult. The study suggests that UBI could lead to substantial improvements in income, job creation, and economic growth. It argues that by providing a financial safety net and stimulating consumer spending, UBI could have positive effects on the economy. However, the article also acknowledges the potential challenges and counterarguments to UBI, such as concerns about funding and potential disincentives to work. Overall, it provides an overview of the ongoing debate surrounding UBI and its potential effects on economic growth.
How America Lost Its Mind
In this thought-provoking article, the author examines the rise of conspiracy theories, the erosion of truth, and the polarization of American society. It traces the origins of these phenomena to various factors, including the undermining of traditional sources of authority, the advent of the internet, and the influence of social media platforms. The article explores how these developments have led to a climate where people are increasingly disconnected from reality and prone to believing and spreading misinformation. It also delves into the psychological and societal implications of this "post-truth" era and offers insights into how we can navigate and address the challenges it presents.
Can we know what animals are thinking?
In this article, the author explores the question of whether or not we can truly understand the thoughts and feelings of animals. It discusses various scientific approaches and studies that aim to decipher animal cognition, such as using experimental methods to observe behavior or studying animal communication systems. The article also highlights the challenges and limitations faced in this field, including the language barrier and the inherent subjectivity in interpreting animal behavior. Ultimately, it suggests that while we may never fully grasp what animals are thinking, we can continue to gain valuable insights into their intelligence and emotions through ongoing research and observation.
Is There Any Point to Protesting?
In this article from The New Yorker, the author explores the question of whether protesting has any meaningful impact or if it merely serves as a way for individuals to express their frustrations. The article examines the history of protests and how they have been both successful and unsuccessful in achieving their goals. It delves into the complexities of activism, discussing the factors that can make protests effective and the challenges they face. The author ultimately argues that while protests alone may not bring about immediate change, they play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and consciousness, leading to long-term social and political transformations.
Going Up
This article delves into the science and philosophy behind mindfulness meditation. It explores how mindfulness has gained popularity in recent years and its potential benefits for mental health. The article discusses studies that have shown how mindfulness meditation can improve attention, reduce stress, and increase feelings of well-being. It also delves into the underlying philosophy of mindfulness, which emphasizes being fully present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing one's thoughts and emotions. The author explores the different approaches to mindfulness and highlights the potential for integrating mindfulness practices into everyday life. Overall, the article provides an insightful exploration into the scientific and philosophical aspects of mindfulness meditation.
Why Your Brain Needs More Downtime
This article explores the importance of mental downtime and the benefits it provides for our brains. It discusses how our brains are constantly active, even when we are not consciously engaged in a particular task. During these periods of mental downtime, the brain enters a mode known as the default mode network (DMN), which is associated with internal reflection, daydreaming, and making connections between different ideas and memories. The article highlights research showing that allowing our minds to wander and giving ourselves breaks from constant stimulation can lead to increased creativity, problem-solving abilities, and overall mental well-being. It suggests that embracing mental downtime and giving ourselves permission to disconnect from external stimuli can have profound positive effects on our cognitive functioning.
These skills make you most employable. Coding isn’t one — can that be right?
This article discusses the most employable skills in today's job market. It argues that developing a combination of technical skills, such as coding or data analysis, and transferable skills, such as communication or problem-solving, can greatly increase one's employability. The article provides insights on the demand for different skill sets in various industries and highlights the importance of continuous learning and staying adaptable in a rapidly changing job market. It also offers practical advice on how to develop and showcase these skills to stand out to employers. Overall, the article aims to help individuals make strategic career choices and maximize their employment prospects.
The Myth of the Full Stack Developer…
In this article, the author challenges the notion of a "full-stack developer" and argues that it is a myth. The article explains that while the concept of a full-stack developer is attractive, it is practically impossible for a single person to master all the necessary skills and technologies in both front-end and back-end web development. The author highlights the increasing complexity and specialization within the field of web development, making it more realistic and efficient for developers to focus on either front-end or back-end specialization. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration and a well-rounded team with diverse skill sets for successful web development projects.
Who should be shamed, and who not?
In this blog post, the author reflects on the tone and emphasis used by different economists and commentators in their writings. The post discusses how a change in tone and emphasis can shift the meaning and interpretation of economic arguments. It highlights the importance of clear and precise language in economic discourse and argues that the choice of words can have a significant impact on the persuasiveness and effectiveness of an argument. The author concludes by urging economists and commentators to pay close attention to the tone and emphasis they employ in their writing to ensure the accurate and nuanced communication of ideas.
Unlearning the myth of American innocence
In this thought-provoking essay, the author challenges the myth of American innocence and discusses the collective denial and ignorance surrounding the darker aspects of American history. The article criticizes the narrative of American exceptionalism and explores how it perpetuates a sense of moral superiority and prevents a deeper understanding of the nation's past and present. The author argues that it is essential for Americans to unlearn this myth and confront the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath the surface of the country's founding ideals. Through a critical examination of historical events and personal anecdotes, the essay encourages readers to question the prevailing narrative and strive for a more nuanced understanding of American identity.