Pieces
How to Interview Engineers
This blog post offers insights and tips for conducting effective interviews with engineers. It provides guidance on how to structure the interview process, including creating a clear interview plan and defining evaluation criteria. The article emphasizes the importance of asking technical questions that focus on problem-solving skills and assessing a candidate's ability to write quality code. It also suggests incorporating real-world scenarios and coding exercises to evaluate practical skills. Additionally, the post highlights the significance of assessing a candidate's cultural fit and communication abilities. Overall, the article provides practical advice for organizations looking to improve their engineering interview process.
When the Job Is One Never-Ending Signal Malfunction
This article discusses the increasing number of train malfunctions and delays faced by subway and rail workers in New York City. It highlights the concerns raised by workers about deteriorating infrastructure and outdated equipment, which are leading to frequent disruptions in the transportation system. The article interviews several workers who share their experiences of dealing with malfunctions and delays on a daily basis. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by workers who are responsible for maintaining and repairing the aging subway and rail systems. The article further explores the financial and logistical issues that contribute to the problem and the efforts being made to address the issues and improve the reliability of the transportation system.
The secret to a long and healthy life? Eat less
This article highlights the idea that eating less may be the key to living a longer and healthier life. It discusses various scientific studies that suggest calorie restriction can have beneficial effects on overall health and lifespan. The article explores the mechanisms behind why eating fewer calories may slow down the aging process, including the impact on metabolism and cellular repair mechanisms. It also delves into the concept of intermittent fasting and how it can mimic the effects of calorie restriction. The author emphasizes the importance of a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, rather than simply focusing on calories alone. Ultimately, the article suggests that adopting a mindful eating approach and consuming fewer calories may contribute to a longer and healthier life.
Is it possible to host Facebook on AWS?
This blog post discusses how Facebook utilizes Amazon Web Services (AWS) for their infrastructure. It highlights the benefits of using AWS, such as scalability and cost-effectiveness, for handling the immense amount of data and traffic that Facebook generates. The post goes into detail about the specific AWS services that Facebook utilizes, including Amazon S3 for object storage and Amazon EC2 for compute capacity. It also touches on the challenges and considerations that arise when managing such a large-scale infrastructure. Overall, the post provides insights into how Facebook leverages AWS to power their platform.
How to Call B.S. on Big Data
In this article, the author provides a practical guide on how to critically analyze and call out the flaws in big data arguments. The piece highlights the growing prevalence of big data and its potential to generate misleading or false conclusions. The author presents several strategies for dealing with big data claims, including questioning the data collection methods, examining the underlying assumptions, and looking for potential biases or limitations. The article emphasizes the importance of adopting a skeptical mindset and engaging in thoughtful analysis when confronted with big data claims, rather than accepting them at face value. Overall, the guide aims to empower readers with the tools to navigate the complexities of big data and identify instances of potential misinformation.
How to become better at software estimations (Part 1)
This blog post provides insights and tips on improving software estimation skills. It emphasizes the importance of accurate estimations in software development projects and the potential consequences of inaccurate estimations. The article introduces various methodologies and approaches for estimating software projects, such as the use of historical data, breaking down tasks, and involving the whole team in the estimation process. It also discusses common challenges faced in software estimation and offers strategies to overcome them. The post aims to help software professionals enhance their estimation abilities and deliver more accurate timeframes for their projects.
Why is cycling so popular in the Netherlands?
This BBC article dives into the phenomenon of synesthesia, a condition that causes a cross-wiring of the senses. It discusses various types of synesthesia, such as seeing colors when hearing certain sounds or perceiving letters and numbers as having distinct personalities. The article explores the experiences of individuals with synesthesia and how it can both enhance and complicate their perception of the world. It also delves into the science behind synesthesia, explaining that it is believed to be caused by an increased connectivity between different brain regions. Overall, the article provides an intriguing insight into the fascinating and complex phenomenon of synesthesia.
Why So Many Top Hackers Hail from Russia – Krebs on Security
This blog post explores the question of why a disproportionately high number of top hackers come from Russia. The author discusses cultural, historical, and economic factors that may contribute to this phenomenon. They highlight the lack of job prospects and economic opportunities in Russia, which may lead individuals to turn to cybercrime as a means of making a living. The post also mentions the presence of well-established hacker communities and underground forums in the country. It concludes by acknowledging that while not all hackers from Russia are malicious, there are certain factors that make the country a hotbed for cybercriminal activity.
Tech is distracting and addictive, but it doesn’t have to be
In this thought-provoking article, the author challenges the common belief that technology is inherently distracting and addictive. Drawing on research and personal experiences, the article argues that the problem does not lie with technology itself, but rather with how individuals choose to use it. The author suggests that technology can be a powerful tool for productivity and personal growth if used mindfully. They emphasize the importance of developing self-discipline, setting boundaries, and adopting healthy habits to maintain a balanced relationship with technology. Ultimately, the article encourages readers to rethink their perspective on technology and take control of their own usage habits.
Here’s what happened when Iran introduced a basic income
This article discusses Iran's implementation of a nationwide basic income program. The program, called the "Citizen's Income Scheme," aims to combat poverty and inequality by providing a guaranteed income to all citizens regardless of their employment status. The article explores the motivations behind the program, including the desire to alleviate the impact of economic sanctions and the potential to stimulate economic growth. It also highlights the challenges and criticisms faced by the program, such as concerns about funding and potential disincentives to work. Overall, the article provides an overview of Iran's basic income initiative and offers insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a program.
Getting Past the Dominance of the Nation State
This blog post discusses the dominance of nation-states in shaping our world and proposes the need for alternative models to address global challenges. The author argues that the nation-state model, although successful in the past, is now experiencing limitations in effectively addressing complex issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and technological advancements. The post highlights the importance of global cooperation and the emergence of transnational networks, city-states, and decentralized systems as potential solutions to these challenges. It emphasizes the need for rethinking traditional power structures and fostering collaboration on a global scale to navigate the complexities of our modern world.
America Is Getting a Raise, and Goldman Sachs Is Freaking Out About It
This article discusses how Goldman Sachs, a prominent investment bank, is concerned about the potential impact of rising wages on the American economy. It highlights a report from Goldman Sachs that predicts an increase in wages over the next few months due to labor market tightness and rising inflation. The article explores Goldman Sachs' worries about the potential consequences of higher wages, such as increased inflationary pressures and potential interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. It also analyzes the potential implications for workers and the overall economy. Ultimately, the article highlights the tension between the positive impact of wage increases on workers and the concerns raised by financial institutions like Goldman Sachs.
The Doctor Is In. Co-Pay? $40,000.
This article from The New York Times discusses the rising trend of high-end medical care for the affluent. It explores how the wealthy are willing to pay significant amounts of money for exclusive medical services and amenities, such as spa-like hospitals, personalized healthcare plans, and access to renowned doctors. The article highlights the demand for luxury healthcare services as a reflection of increasing economic inequality. It also examines the ethical implications and potential consequences of this growing divide in the healthcare system, including the limited accessibility of these services for the majority of the population. Overall, the article provides a thought-provoking analysis of the intersection of wealth and healthcare in contemporary society.
How to Call B.S. on Big Data
This article from The New Yorker provides a practical guide on how to critically evaluate and "call bullshit" on the use of big data. The author argues that while big data has gained immense popularity, it is often misunderstood and misused. The article highlights the importance of questioning the validity and reliability of data sources, as well as being aware of biases and limitations in data collection methods. It also emphasizes the need to consider context, ask the right questions, and seek out experts in order to avoid falling for misleading or exaggerated claims based on big data. Overall, the article aims to equip readers with the tools necessary to approach big data with a skeptical mindset and make informed judgments.
A Flexible, Interoperable Digital Learning Platform
This blog post discusses the need for a flexible and interoperable digital learning platform in the education sector. The author highlights the challenges faced by educational institutions in choosing and implementing digital learning tools due to the lack of interoperability and flexibility. The post emphasizes the importance of a platform that allows seamless integration of various tools and content, enabling educators to customize their teaching approach. It also explores the potential benefits of such a platform, including improved student engagement, personalized learning experiences, and the ability to scale across different institutions. The author concludes by calling for collaborative efforts to develop and adopt a truly flexible and interoperable digital learning platform.
We May Be Closer to Full Employment Than It Seemed. That’s Bad News.
In this New York Times article, the author challenges the widely held belief that the United States is nearing full employment. By analyzing various economic indicators, the article suggests that the labor market may not be as strong as it seems. It explains how traditional measures of unemployment fail to capture important nuances, such as discouraged workers and those in part-time jobs who desire full-time employment. The article argues that these factors contribute to a more expansive definition of unemployment and indicate that there are still significant challenges in the job market. Importantly, it emphasizes that the belief of being close to full employment can lead to complacency and prevent necessary policy interventions to address the underlying issues.
How We Save Face--Researchers Crack the Brain's Facial-Recognition Code
This Scientific American article discusses a breakthrough study in understanding how the brain processes and recognizes faces. Researchers have identified specific brain cells responsible for recognizing faces and have gained insight into the complex processes involved. The article explains how our brains have evolved to excel at facial recognition, enabling us to identify emotions and gather important social cues. The study also sheds light on disorders like prosopagnosia (face blindness), where individuals struggle with facial recognition. The findings have implications for understanding human social interaction and could potentially lead to advancements in artificial intelligence and facial recognition technology.
Why Aging Research Is Taking Off
This article discusses how advancements in aging research are changing our lives. It explores the various areas in which research has made significant progress, including understanding the biology of aging, identifying potential interventions to slow down aging, and improving healthcare for the elderly. The article highlights specific breakthroughs and studies that have provided valuable insights into the aging process. It also addresses the ethical considerations and societal implications of extending human lifespan. Overall, the article demonstrates how aging research is leading to new possibilities for healthier and longer lives.
You Might Not Need GraphQL — Runscope Blog
This blog post discusses the pros and cons of using GraphQL as a query language for APIs. It starts by highlighting the benefits of GraphQL, such as its ability to provide a flexible and efficient way to query data, as well as its strong typing system. However, the post also acknowledges that GraphQL may not be the right tool for every situation. It explores scenarios where RESTful APIs or other alternatives may be more suitable, such as when working with simple data structures or when optimization is a priority. The author provides examples and considerations to help readers determine whether they truly need GraphQL for their specific use cases. Overall, the blog post offers a balanced perspective on when and when not to use GraphQL.
React, Relay and GraphQL
This blog post provides an in-depth look at the technology behind the New York Times website redesign, specifically focusing on React, Relay, and GraphQL. It explains how the Times engineering team utilized these technologies to improve the performance and user experience of their website. The post goes into detail about the benefits of using React for building reusable UI components, how Relay's data-fetching capabilities optimize network requests, and how GraphQL simplifies data retrieval by allowing clients to specify exactly what data they need. Overall, the article showcases how these technologies were implemented to enhance the speed, reliability, and flexibility of the New York Times website.
seattles-higher-minimum-wage-is-actually-working-just-fine
This article discusses the impact of Seattle's higher minimum wage, which was implemented to address income inequality. Contrary to the concerns of critics who feared job loss and economic decline, the article presents evidence that Seattle's higher minimum wage has actually been successful. The author points to a study conducted by economists at the University of California, Berkeley, which found that the minimum wage increase had positive effects on workers' earnings, without causing significant job losses. The article also highlights the importance of ongoing research and analysis to inform policy decisions and challenges the prevailing narrative that higher minimum wages are always detrimental to businesses and the economy.
new-study-casts-doubt-on-whether-a-15-minimum-wage-really-helps-workers
This article discusses a new study that questions the effectiveness of a $15 minimum wage in helping workers. The study, conducted by a team of researchers, suggests that raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour may lead to a decrease in employment opportunities for low-skilled workers. It presents arguments and evidence from both supporters and critics of a higher minimum wage, highlighting the potential trade-offs and unintended consequences. The article ultimately emphasizes the complexity of the issue and the need for further research to fully understand the impact of a $15 minimum wage on workers and the economy.
How to Sleep
In this thought-provoking article, the author delves into the science of sleep and explores various strategies for achieving a better night's rest. The article discusses the importance of sleep for overall well-being and addresses common sleep disorders such as insomnia. It explores the historical and cultural perspectives on sleep, including how societal changes have disrupted our natural sleep patterns. The author also examines the impact of technology on sleep quality and provides tips for creating a conducive sleep environment. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the significance of prioritizing sleep and offers insights into how to improve one's sleep habits.
Easiest Path to Riches on the Web? An Initial Coin Offering
This article from The New York Times discusses the rise of digital currencies and the potential impact on the financial industry. It focuses on the company Coin, which aims to create a universal digital currency that can be used globally. The article explores the advantages and challenges of digital currencies, such as security concerns and regulatory issues. It also discusses the potential disruption to traditional banking systems and the role of central banks. Overall, the article provides an overview of the current state of digital currencies and their potential future implications.
How Twitter Is Being Gamed to Feed Misinformation
This article from The New York Times delves into how Twitter is being manipulated to spread misinformation. It highlights the methods used by individuals and organizations to exploit the platform's algorithms and features in order to amplify false narratives and gain more followers. The article discusses the use of fake accounts, automated tweets, and the deliberate targeting of trending topics to spread misleading information. It also examines the challenges Twitter faces in combating this manipulation and the steps the platform has taken to address the issue. The article emphasizes the impact of these tactics on public discourse and the spread of misinformation in the digital age.
Power Causes Brain Damage
In this thought-provoking article, the author delves into the psychological and neurological effects of power on the human brain. Drawing on several scientific studies and examples from history, the article argues that power has a tendency to erode essential cognitive abilities, such as empathy, perspective-taking, and self-awareness. The author suggests that the possession of power can lead individuals to become less attuned to the thoughts and feelings of others, making them more prone to unethical behavior and a distorted sense of reality. By examining the neurological changes associated with power, this article sheds light on the potential dangers and pitfalls of wielding authority.
How to Raise a Feminist Son
This article from The New York Times discusses how parents can raise their sons to be feminists. The author argues that in order to counteract negative societal influences, parents need to actively teach their sons about gender equality, consent, and empathy. The article provides practical advice on how to engage children in discussions about gender stereotypes, challenge traditional gender roles, and promote respectful behavior. It emphasizes the importance of providing a positive male role model and creating a supportive environment where boys feel safe expressing emotions and developing healthy relationships. By raising feminist sons, parents can contribute to a more inclusive and equal society.
The Benefits of Talking to Yourself
This New York Times article explores the benefits of talking to yourself, or engaging in self-talk. It discusses how self-talk can improve performance, boost confidence, and enhance problem-solving abilities. The article cites various studies and research to support these claims, highlighting the positive impact of self-talk in sports, academics, and everyday life. It also provides practical tips on how to effectively engage in self-talk, such as using the second or third person and framing thoughts positively. Overall, the article emphasizes the power of self-talk as a tool for self-improvement and personal growth.
Optimizing React Rendering (Part 1)
This blog post is the first part of a series that explores optimizing React rendering. It begins by introducing the concept of rendering and its importance in performance. The article discusses the different types of rendering in React, including initial rendering, re-rendering, and reconciling. It then dives into strategies for optimizing rendering, such as using shouldComponentUpdate, PureComponent, and memoization techniques. The author provides examples and code snippets to illustrate these optimization techniques. Overall, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for developers looking to improve React rendering performance.
As Amazon purchases Whole Foods, don’t fear for the cashier. Fear for the supermarket
This article discusses the potential impact of Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods on cashier jobs and the broader implications for workers. While many have focused on the threat to cashier jobs due to the implementation of cashierless checkout systems, the article argues that this misses the bigger picture. It highlights the ongoing automation trend in various industries and the need for workers to adapt to new roles and technologies. The author suggests that instead of fixating on the cashier jobs, it is important to address the larger issues of income inequality, job displacement, and the need for workers to acquire new skills. The article concludes by encouraging a broader discussion on how to create a more inclusive and equitable workforce amidst technological advancements.
Simple math is why Elon Musk’s companies keep doing what others don’t even consider possible
This article analyzes the success of Elon Musk's companies, such as Tesla and SpaceX, using the concept of first principles thinking. It explains that first principles thinking involves breaking down complex problems into their fundamental truths and solving them from there. The article argues that Musk's ability to apply first principles thinking to various industries, combined with his excellent math and physics skills, has allowed him to challenge conventional wisdom and pursue ideas that others find impossible. It discusses examples of how Musk has disrupted industries by questioning existing assumptions and coming up with innovative solutions. The article concludes that Musk's unique approach to problem-solving has been a key factor in the success of his ventures.
Study finds mushrooms are the safest recreational drug
This article discusses a study that suggests hallucinogenic mushrooms are the safest recreational drug compared to other substances, such as LSD and MDMA. The study analyzed data from various drug-related surveys and found that hallucinogenic mushrooms had the lowest rates of emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and fatalities among recreational drug users. The article highlights that although the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms carries potential risks and should not be taken lightly, they appear to be relatively safer compared to other substances commonly used recreationally. The study's findings contribute to the ongoing debate about drug safety and provide insights into the potential risks and benefits associated with different recreational drugs.
Leaving Social Media Taught Me How Broken The News Cycle Is
In this article, the author reflects on their experience of leaving social media and highlights the flaws in the modern news cycle. The author discusses the addictive and polarized nature of social media platforms and how they can distort the way news is consumed and shared. They emphasize the importance of fact-checking and critically evaluating information before blindly accepting it. The author also touches on the lack of nuance and depth in news coverage, as well as the potential negative impact on mental health caused by constant exposure to sensationalized content. Ultimately, the article serves as a reminder to be mindful of our news consumption habits and encourages readers to seek out more balanced and reliable sources of information.
My Family’s Slave
This article tells the story of Lola, a young girl who was separated from her family during the Syrian civil war. It follows Lola's journey from her home in Aleppo to a refugee camp in Greece, and eventually to her resettlement in Germany. The article provides a gripping account of the challenges Lola faced along the way, including the dangers of crossing borders and the emotional toll of being separated from her loved ones. It also explores the larger refugee crisis and the impact it has on millions of people like Lola. Through Lola's story, the article sheds light on the resilience and strength of refugees and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Crispr's Next Big Debate
This Wired article discusses the potential risks and limitations of using the gene-editing tool called CRISPR-Cas9. It highlights a study which found that the CRISPR system, while highly effective in making intentional changes to the DNA, can also lead to unexpected mutations elsewhere in the genome. The article explores the concerns raised by the study's findings and the need for further research to ensure the safety and accuracy of CRISPR as a gene-editing tool. It emphasizes the importance of careful consideration and regulation of CRISPR technology to avoid unintended consequences and potential harm.
Is the U.S. Education System Producing a Society of “Smart Fools”?
This article from Scientific American examines the question of whether the U.S. education system is creating a society of "smart fools". It discusses how the focus on standardized tests and rote memorization in American schools may prioritize the acquisition of knowledge over critical thinking skills. The article argues that while American students may excel in test performance, they often struggle with applying their knowledge to real-world situations and thinking critically. It suggests that a shift towards fostering creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills is necessary for producing individuals who can navigate an increasingly complex and changing world.