Pieces
why-smart-people-are-better-off-with-fewer-friends
This article examines the relationship between intelligence and the number of social connections a person has. Contrary to the notion that more social connections are always better, the article argues that highly intelligent individuals benefit from having fewer friends. It suggests that intelligent people tend to have different social needs and place a higher value on deep and meaningful relationships. The article also highlights research indicating that while social interactions can be beneficial, excessive socializing can lead to mental fatigue and reduced overall well-being. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to social relationships for intelligent individuals.
This Professor Thinks He’s Figured Out How to Get Students to Study
This article features a professor named Ken Bain who transformed his classes into an experiment in motivation. Bain shares his experiences and insights on how he motivated his students to excel by creating an environment that encouraged their curiosity and intrinsic motivation. He emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of purpose, relevance, and autonomy, rather than relying solely on external motivators such as grades. The article highlights specific strategies Bain employed, such as engaging students in problem-solving and providing timely feedback. Overall, it explores the power of intrinsic motivation in enhancing learning outcomes and students' overall engagement.
Step by Step Guide To Building React Redux Apps
This article provides a step-by-step guide to building React-Redux applications using mocks. It starts by explaining the importance of using mocks in development to simulate data interactions and make the development process more efficient. The guide then walks through the process of setting up a React-Redux project, including installing the necessary dependencies. It then demonstrates how to create mock data using libraries like faker.js and json-server to simulate API interactions. The article also covers how to implement features like CRUD operations and authentication using mock data. Overall, this guide serves as a helpful resource for developers interested in building React-Redux applications using mocks.
Is Passive Investment Actively Hurting the Economy?
This article from The New Yorker examines the rise of passive investment and its potential impact on the economy. Passive investing involves putting money into index funds or exchange-traded funds that track a particular market index, rather than actively selecting individual stocks. The article discusses the rapid growth of passive investment and the concerns surrounding its impact on market efficiency and corporate governance. It highlights the argument that passive investing may lead to an imbalance of power and reduced competition among companies. The article also explores the argument that passive investment can distort market prices and hinder price discovery. While acknowledging the benefits of passive investing, the author raises thought-provoking questions about its long-term consequences for the economy.
In the Land of Missing Persons
In this article, the author explores the mysterious disappearances that occur in a small town in Humboldt County, California. The article delves into the history and culture of the area, highlighting the complex issues surrounding missing persons cases. It discusses the unique challenges faced by law enforcement and search and rescue teams in this remote and rugged region. The author also explores the impact of these disappearances on the families left behind, as well as the psychological toll it takes on the community. By addressing various theories and providing real-life stories, the article sheds light on the unsettling phenomenon of missing persons in this particular area.
Engineers Shouldn’t Write ETL
In this blog post, the author argues against engineers writing ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) code. They make the case that ETL is a distinct discipline that requires different skills and expertise than general software engineering. The author suggests that engineers should focus on building robust and scalable systems, while ETL specialists can focus on designing efficient data pipelines. The post also highlights the limitations and risks of engineers taking on ETL responsibilities, such as decreased productivity and increased likelihood of errors. Ultimately, the author emphasizes the importance of recognizing the specialized nature of ETL and leveraging the expertise of dedicated ETL professionals.
Complaining Is Terrible for You, According to Science
This article discusses how complaining rewires the brain for negativity. It highlights a study conducted by Stanford University, which found that complaining can actually alter the structure of the brain and make it more prone to negativity. The article explains that when we complain, our brains release stress hormones, creating a negative feedback loop that reinforces complaining behavior. It also provides insights on the social and psychological implications of complaining, such as how it affects relationships and productivity. The author suggests reframing complaints as constructive feedback and cultivating a positive mindset to counteract the negative effects of complaining. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our language and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
why-kids-should-go-barefoot-more-and-probably-adults-too
This article discusses the benefits of going barefoot for both children and adults. It explains that walking barefoot allows the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet to develop naturally, improving balance and coordination. The article also highlights the sensory benefits of walking barefoot, as it allows for better proprioception and tactile awareness. Additionally, going shoeless can help prevent foot problems such as bunions and flat feet. The article encourages parents to allow their children to go barefoot whenever it is safe to do so, and also suggests that adults can benefit from going shoeless more often.
When People With Schizophrenia Hear Voices, They’re Really Hearing Their Own Subvocal Speech
This article delves into the phenomenon of auditory hallucinations experienced by individuals with schizophrenia. It explores the theory that these hallucinatory voices may actually be a form of subvocal speech, which refers to the internal vocalization of thoughts without the physical production of sound. The article discusses a study conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, which found that people with schizophrenia have higher levels of subvocal speech compared to those without the condition. It also examines the potential implications of this discovery for understanding and treating the symptoms of schizophrenia.
The Custodian of Forgotten Books
In this New Yorker essay, the author reflects on the role of a "custodian of forgotten books" and the importance of preserving literary works that may otherwise be lost to time. The essay describes the experience of visiting a rare book collection and the emotional connection one can feel with these forgotten treasures. It touches on the profound impact that books can have on individuals and society, as well as the responsibility of keeping literary history alive. The author emphasizes the custodian's role in not only preserving physical books but also the stories and ideas they contain, acting as a bridge between the past and the present.
Open Sourcers Race to Build Better Versions of Slack
This article discusses the growing competition in the realm of team communication tools, with open-source developers racing to create superior alternatives to popular platforms like Slack. It highlights the advantages of open-source software, including increased transparency and the ability for users to customize and modify the software to fit their specific needs. The article also explores some of the challenges faced by open-source projects, such as funding and user adoption. It showcases different open-source alternatives to Slack that have gained traction and popularity among developers, emphasizing the collaborative and community-driven nature of these projects. Overall, the article offers insights into the vibrant open-source community and their efforts to build better team communication platforms.
How cancer cells fuel their growth
This article discusses a study conducted by researchers at MIT on how cancer cells fuel their growth. The study focused on a specific metabolic process called one-carbon metabolism, which plays a crucial role in providing building blocks for cell growth. The researchers found that cancer cells rely on a particular enzyme known as SHMT2 to support their rapid proliferation. By inhibiting this enzyme, they were able to effectively slow down the growth of cancer cells in various types of tumors. The findings from this study have implications for developing new cancer treatments that target this metabolic pathway and potentially inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Why You Shouldn’t Use “Markdown” for Documentation
This blog post argues against using Markdown for writing technical documentation. The author highlights several issues with using Markdown, such as limited formatting options and the difficulty of maintaining consistent documentation style across a project. They suggest that using a more robust documentation tool, like Sphinx or Read the Docs, provides better control over the structure, layout, and formatting of technical documentation. The author also discusses the importance of versioning and collaboration features that are lacking in Markdown. Overall, the blog post advocates for using specialized tools specifically designed for technical documentation, rather than relying solely on Markdown.
What Happens When the Surveillance State Becomes an Affordable Gadget?
This article discusses the potential consequences of the democratization of surveillance technology. It explores how affordable surveillance gadgets, such as drones and hidden cameras, are becoming more accessible to the general public. The article raises concerns about the privacy implications of this trend, as these gadgets can be used for invasive surveillance by individuals or groups with malicious intent. It also touches on the legal and ethical challenges surrounding the use of surveillance technology. The article emphasizes the need for regulations and safeguards to protect individuals' privacy in the face of this increasing availability of surveillance gadgets.
The Sadness and Beauty of Watching Google's AI Play Go
This article reflects on the significance of Google's artificial intelligence program, AlphaGo, defeating a human champion in the ancient game of Go. The author emphasizes the complexity of the game and how it was long considered an unachievable milestone for AI. The article explores the emotional impact of witnessing the feat, with a focus on the unexpected beauty and sadness that arises from watching a machine excel in a traditionally human domain. It also touches on the broader implications of AI advancement and the potential for machines to surpass human capabilities in various domains.
The Proven Path to Doing Unique and Meaningful Work
This blog post discusses the importance of perseverance and commitment in achieving long-term goals. The author uses the analogy of staying on a bus to emphasize the need to stick with a chosen path, even when faced with challenges or distractions along the way. Drawing insights from various successful individuals and their stories, the post highlights the common thread of persistence that separates those who achieve their goals from those who do not. It suggests that staying focused, maintaining discipline, and embracing the journey are key factors in reaching one's desired destination. The post ultimately encourages readers to stay committed to their chosen path and not be swayed by temporary setbacks or distractions.
Quit Your Job
This article from The Atlantic examines the idea of quitting one's job and the potential benefits and drawbacks that come with it. The author explores the reasons behind people's dissatisfaction with their jobs and the notion of a "dream job." It delves into the shifting dynamics of the modern workplace and the changing expectations individuals have for their careers. The article also discusses the rise of entrepreneurship and the idea of creating one's own job instead of seeking traditional employment. Overall, it offers a nuanced perspective on the decision to quit a job and explores alternative paths to finding professional fulfillment.
Penguin swims 5,000 miles every year for reunion with the man who saved his life
This heartwarming story tells the tale of a loyal penguin who swims an astonishing 5,000 miles every year to reunite with the man who saved his life. The man, who found the penguin stranded on a Brazilian beach covered in oil, nursed him back to health and released him back into the wild. Despite being free, the penguin continues to make the arduous journey to visit his rescuer each year. The story serves as a reminder of the deep bonds that can form between humans and animals and the incredible acts of loyalty that can result.
Marooned Among the Polar Bears
This article tells the story of Mike Still, a wildlife filmmaker who found himself marooned in the Arctic alongside a group of polar bears. Still was on a remote island filming walruses when a storm forced his helicopter to leave him behind. He spent eight days stranded, fighting off hunger, cold, and the constant presence of polar bears. The article details his survival tactics, from building a shelter to scaring off the bears. It highlights the incredible resilience and resourcefulness needed to survive in such a harsh environment. Ultimately, Still was rescued and his experience serves as a testament to the power of human determination in the face of adversity.
How the 'New York Times' Sandbagged Bernie Sanders
This article delves into the relationship between Bernie Sanders and The New York Times during the 2016 presidential election. It argues that The New York Times exhibited bias against Sanders, providing more favorable coverage to his opponent, Hillary Clinton. The article highlights several instances where the newspaper published misleading or negative articles about Sanders, including an editorial that endorsed Clinton before the primary races had even concluded. It suggests that this biased coverage may have influenced public perception of Sanders and affected his chances of securing the Democratic nomination. The article raises questions about media objectivity and the potential impact of biased reporting on political outcomes.
How the internet flips elections and alters our thoughts
In this essay, the author explores the impact of the internet on elections and our thought processes. The article discusses how the internet has transformed the landscape of political campaigning, providing new platforms for propaganda and manipulation. It delves into the concept of filter bubbles and echo chambers, where individuals are increasingly exposed to information that aligns with their existing beliefs, leading to reinforcement rather than challenge. The author also examines the role of social media in shaping our thoughts and opinions, highlighting the potential for viral misinformation to sway public discourse. Ultimately, the essay raises important questions about the influence of the internet on democratic processes and the need for critical thinking in an increasingly digital world.
Deep Learning Is Going to Teach Us All the Lesson of Our Lives
This article discusses the increasing role of deep learning and automation in the job market and its potential impact on the future of work. The author argues that as artificial intelligence and machine learning technology advance, more and more jobs will be taken over by machines. This shift raises concerns about unemployment and the need for a new economic model, such as universal basic income, to ensure the well-being of individuals in a society where traditional jobs become scarce. The article explores the potential benefits and challenges of embracing automation and calls for a broader conversation about how society can adapt to this changing landscape of work.
The Obama Doctrine
In this article, Jeffrey Goldberg delves into the foreign policy of President Barack Obama, examining what he calls the "Obama Doctrine." Goldberg interviews the president and analyzes his approach to various international challenges, including the Middle East, Russia, and China. The article explores Obama's cautious approach to intervention and his focus on multilateral diplomacy. It also discusses the president's assessment of American power and the role he believes the United States should play in the world. Overall, the article provides an in-depth analysis of Obama's foreign policy and the guiding principles that shaped his approach.
The First Time Texas Killed One of My Clients
This article tells the story of a lawyer's experience representing a client who was sentenced to death in Texas. It discusses the challenges faced by both the lawyer and the convicted individual in navigating the complex and often flawed criminal justice system. The article sheds light on the emotional toll that capital punishment takes on all parties involved, from the defense attorney to the family of the person awaiting execution. It also raises important questions about the fairness, effectiveness, and morality of the death penalty. Through personal anecdotes and a critical examination of the system, the article offers insights into the realities and consequences of capital punishment in Texas.
The Bike Wars Are Over, and the Bikes Won
This article discusses the ongoing conflicts between cyclists and drivers in major cities, focusing on the shift in power and public sentiment in favor of cyclists. It highlights the increase in bike lane infrastructure, bike-sharing programs, and the rise of cycling as a popular mode of transportation. The author argues that cities are prioritizing and investing in cycling infrastructure due to the environmental benefits, health benefits, and economic advantages it brings. The article also touches upon the cultural shift in attitudes towards cycling and the need for continued advocacy to ensure safe and efficient cycling conditions.
The Echo From Amazon Brims With Groundbreaking Promise
This article from The New York Times discusses the Amazon Echo, a voice-activated smart speaker that has gained significant popularity since its release. The article highlights the various capabilities of the Echo, such as playing music, providing weather updates, answering questions, and controlling smart home devices. It explores the potential for the Echo to revolutionize the way we interact with technology and the internet, as it represents a move towards a more natural and intuitive user experience. The article also touches on the concerns surrounding privacy and data security that arise with the use of such devices. Overall, it portrays the Amazon Echo as a groundbreaking technology with the potential to greatly impact how we live and interact with our surroundings.
The Billionaires’ Loophole
In this New Yorker article, the author delves into the controversy surrounding the so-called carried interest loophole and its impact on the tax system. The article focuses on David Rubenstein, a billionaire private equity executive, who has become a prominent voice in the debate over whether fund managers should be taxed at a lower rate on their income. It explores the historical context of the carried interest loophole and the arguments both for and against its continuation. The author also discusses the potential consequences of closing this loophole and the broader implications for income inequality and tax fairness. Overall, the article provides an insightful analysis of the carried interest dilemma.
Slate Magazine - Politics, Business, Technology, and the Arts
This article discusses the concept of ego depletion, a theory in psychology that suggests that self-control and willpower can be depleted over time. It presents a recent meta-analysis of 200 studies that challenges the validity of ego depletion theory. The study found that the effect size of ego depletion is actually quite small, making it questionable whether ego depletion has a significant impact on self-control. The article explores the implications of this new research and raises questions about the reproducibility of previous studies on ego depletion. It suggests that more research is needed to better understand the complex nature of self-control and willpower.
Revealed
This article discusses the economic challenges faced by Generation Y, also known as Millennials, and highlights a 30-year economic betrayal that has impacted their income and financial well-being. The article examines how the wages, job prospects, and quality of life for younger generations have been adversely affected compared to previous generations. It explores factors such as rising housing costs, student debt, and precarious employment as key contributors to the economic struggles faced by Millennials. The article argues that this economic betrayal has far-reaching consequences, not just for individuals, but for society as a whole. It calls for urgent action to address these issues and create a more equitable economic system.
The Verge
This article discusses the challenges faced by app developers in the ever-growing app economy, using the example of Pixite - an app development company. It highlights the struggles Pixite faced due to changes in the App Store economy, specifically focusing on app discovery and monetization issues. The article explains how Pixite's business model, based on selling individual apps for a one-time fee, became less sustainable as the market shifted towards free or subscription-based apps. It also explores the impact of Apple's search algorithm changes and the dominance of big players in the app market. The article concludes by discussing the need for app developers to adapt their strategies to these evolving market conditions.
The Myth of the Barter Economy
This article challenges the idea of a barter-based society as a precursor to the modern monetary system. It argues that the common narrative of early humans engaged in direct barter before the invention of money is a myth. The author explains that historical evidence and anthropological research do not support the notion that barter was a widespread or efficient system of trade. Instead, the article suggests that various forms of credit and debt, as well as social obligations and mutual cooperation, played a more significant role in early economic transactions. The author concludes that the idea of a barter-based society is largely a construct that simplifies and misunderstands the complexities of human economic behavior throughout history.
The Bidding War
This article from The New Yorker tells the story of Efraim Diveroli, a young entrepreneur who made millions of dollars by exploiting loopholes in government contracts during the Afghan war. It describes how Diveroli and his company, AEY Inc., secured lucrative deals to supply weapons and ammunition to the U.S. military in Afghanistan. The article delves into the corrupt practices and lack of oversight within the arms industry, shedding light on the consequences of privatizing war. It also highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals like Diveroli who profit from conflict. Through interviews and extensive research, the article offers a detailed account of the man behind the controversial deals and raises broader questions about accountability and the dynamics of war profiteering.
Lift the Ban! Kofi Annan on Why It's Time To Legalize Drugs
In this article, former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan discusses the ineffectiveness of drug bans and advocates for an alternative approach to drug policy. Annan argues that the current approach of criminalizing drug use and enforcing prohibition has not only failed to curb drug abuse but has also led to significant negative consequences such as violence, corruption, and the spread of diseases. He suggests that instead of focusing on punishment, a more effective strategy would involve a harm reduction approach, treating drug addiction as a public health issue rather than a criminal offense. Annan believes that by adopting this alternative approach, governments can better address the root causes of drug abuse and minimize the harmful impact on individuals and communities.