Pieces
This Man's Simple System Could Transform American Medicine
This article explores the concept of 'Number Needed to Treat' (NNT) in the context of medical treatments and interventions. NNT is a statistical measure that quantifies the effectiveness of a medical intervention by indicating the number of patients who need to be treated in order to achieve a desired outcome in one patient. The article emphasizes the importance of considering NNT when evaluating the benefits and risks of a particular treatment. It discusses how NNT can provide a clearer understanding of the actual impact of a treatment compared to just looking at relative risk reduction or the percentage of patients who respond positively. The author argues that understanding NNT can help both healthcare providers and patients make more informed decisions when it comes to choosing appropriate treatments.
Where emoji come from
This article delves into the origin and evolution of emojis, the small digital icons used to convey emotions, ideas, and concepts. It explores how emojis have become a global phenomenon, transcending language barriers and becoming ingrained in popular culture. The article discusses the early beginnings of emojis in Japan and their subsequent international adoption. It also touches on the challenges of standardizing emojis across different platforms and the role of Unicode Consortium in regulating and adding new emojis to the official Unicode Standard. The author highlights the impact of emojis on communication and expresses optimism about their continued relevance and evolution.
Old Masters at the Top of Their Game (Published 2014)
This interactive article from The New York Times Magazine showcases a collection of photographs featuring elderly artists who continue to produce exceptional work well into their old age. The photographs, taken by various photographers, capture the passion, skill, and dedication of these artists who have dedicated their lives to their craft. The article explores the stories of these artists, their creative processes, and the profound impact of their art on both their own lives and the art world at large. Through stunning visuals and personal narratives, the article celebrates the enduring talent and resilience of these "old masters" who continue to inspire and create.
Your meat addiction is destroying the planet
This article discusses the environmental impact of meat consumption. It highlights how the growing global demand for meat is contributing to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The article argues for the need to reduce meat consumption and suggests alternative solutions, such as plant-based diets and sustainable farming practices. It also explores the role of technology in creating meat substitutes and lab-grown meat as potential solutions to mitigate the environmental damage caused by traditional meat production. The author emphasizes the importance of individual choices and collective action in addressing the issue and offers hope for a more sustainable future.
Have We Been Interpreting Quantum Mechanics Wrong This Whole Time?
This article discusses the nature of reality and the role that quantum mechanics plays in our understanding of it. It explores the concept of superposition, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, and the phenomenon of entanglement, where particles become linked and can affect each other's state instantaneously regardless of distance. The article also touches on the attempts to reconcile quantum mechanics with classical physics and the ongoing challenges in developing a comprehensive theory of quantum gravity. It ultimately highlights the profound implications of quantum mechanics for our understanding of reality and the potential for advancements in technology.
The Cost of Cryptography
In this informative article, the author delves into the computational cost associated with cryptography and its implications. It explores how cryptographic algorithms are used to protect digital information and highlights the tradeoff between security and efficiency. The article discusses the various mathematical operations and computational resources necessary to implement cryptographic protocols, as well as the potential risks of using compromised or outdated algorithms. It also touches on the growing need for more efficient and secure cryptographic solutions, particularly as the volume of digital data continues to increase. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the cost and challenges associated with cryptography in the modern digital age.
New Clock May End Time As We Know It
This NPR article discusses a new clock that has the potential to change the way we measure time. The clock, called the "optical lattice clock," is more accurate than any clock that currently exists, losing only one second every 33 billion years. By using atoms trapped in a lattice of laser light, this new clock operates on a different principle than traditional atomic clocks. The article explains that this technology could revolutionize fields such as navigation, communication, and scientific research, as it allows for incredibly precise timekeeping. However, the article also addresses the challenges and limitations that need to be overcome before this new clock can replace the current standard. Overall, the article highlights the potential significance of this new clock in reshaping our understanding and measurement of time.
Where Did Time Come From, and Why Does It Seem to Flow?
In this blog post, the concept of time and its perceived flow is explored. The author delves into the philosophical and scientific theories surrounding the origins and nature of time. He discusses how our perception of time as a continuous flow may differ from the way it is understood in physics, where time is often seen as a dimension or a sequence of events. The article also touches upon the subjective experience of time, including the role of memory and how our perception of time can be influenced by various factors. Overall, the post provides a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of time and challenges our intuitive understanding of its flow.
The New York Ebola patient is a hero. Stop criticizing his bowling trip.
This Vox article discusses the reaction to the news of a doctor testing positive for Ebola in New York City during the 2014 outbreak. The author challenges the narrative that the doctor is a brave and heroic figure, arguing that it is unfair to place the burden of heroism on healthcare workers who contract the virus while caring for patients. The article delves into the difficulties faced by healthcare workers during the outbreak and criticizes the media's tendency to sensationalize and oversimplify complex issues. It ultimately calls for a more nuanced and supportive approach in reporting on public health crises.
How copyright law gives Amazon too much power over the book industry
This article discusses the issue of Amazon's power in the book market and proposes a solution to reduce its dominance. The author argues that instead of trying to directly regulate or break up Amazon, the focus should be on reforming the publishing industry and creating a more diverse and decentralized market. The article suggests that the current publishing ecosystem heavily favors established authors and big publishers, making it difficult for smaller publishers and independent authors to compete. The author proposes implementing reforms such as fair pricing, transparent algorithms, and improved discoverability to level the playing field and reduce Amazon's influence. By focusing on systemic changes, the article argues that it is possible to create a more balanced and competitive book market.
How Crowdsourcing Turned On Me
This article tells the personal story of a writer who experienced the downside of crowdsourcing. The author discusses their experience with a book project where they decided to engage with the crowd by inviting readers to contribute ideas and suggestions. Initially, the crowdsourcing process was exciting and yielded interesting insights, but it soon spiraled out of control. The author describes how the project was hijacked by trolls and individuals with questionable intentions, leading to a loss of control and a negative overall experience. The article highlights the potential risks and challenges associated with crowdsourcing, emphasizing the need for careful management and moderation.
The Ebola Wars
In this New Yorker article, the author delves into the global response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014. It discusses the initial slow response from international organizations and governments, the challenges faced by healthcare workers on the ground, and the impact of public fear and misinformation. The article highlights the efforts of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to contain the virus and provides an in-depth look at the politics and bureaucracy surrounding the crisis. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for a coordinated global response to future pandemics and the importance of learning from past mistakes.
What Kids Around the World Eat for Breakfast (Published 2014)
This interactive article from The New York Times Magazine explores the various eating habits and food preferences of people from different cultures around the world. The article highlights the diversity of food traditions and customs, discussing topics such as the communal dining culture in Ethiopia, the importance of rice in Japan, and the rise of fast food in America. It uses visual storytelling, including photographs and maps, to immerse the reader in the different culinary experiences and to showcase the universal human connection to food. The article aims to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of eating practices and how they shape our identities.
The Limits of Friendship
In this New Yorker article, Maria Konnikova examines how social media affects our ability to maintain meaningful relationships and adhere to Dunbar's number, the suggested cognitive limit to the number of stable social connections an individual can maintain. Konnikova discusses the concept of "ambient awareness" and how platforms like Facebook and Twitter can give the illusion of maintaining relationships with a large number of people while actually hindering meaningful connections. She also explores the role of social media in diminishing the quality of our interactions and contributing to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The article offers insights into the way social media impacts our social lives and raises questions about the true depth and authenticity of online friendships.
King of click
This article tells the story of Byron W. Ferguson, known as the 'King of Keys,' who is a locksmith and an expert in lock picking. The article explores Ferguson's passion for locks and keys, as well as his impressive skills in picking even the most complex locks. It discusses how Ferguson became interested in lock picking, his dedication to mastering the craft, and his reputation as one of the best in the field. The article also touches on the ethical aspects of lock picking and Ferguson's involvement in helping law enforcement agencies improve their security measures. Overall, the article highlights Ferguson's expertise in lock picking and his unique perspective on the world of locks and keys.
Inside the New York Fed
This article unveils a series of secret recordings made by Carmen Segarra, a former regulator at the New York Federal Reserve. Segarra's recordings shed light on the close relationship between regulators and the banks they supervise, particularly focusing on Goldman Sachs. The recordings capture conversations that raise concerns about the Fed's willingness to actively address conflicts of interest and enforce regulatory policies. Segarra's account highlights how regulators often prioritize the interests of the banks over their duty to protect the public. This exposé offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the financial industry and the challenges faced by regulatory bodies.
The Self-Made Man
This article delves into the concept of the "self-made man" and traces its historical roots from figures like Benjamin Franklin to Andrew Carnegie. It examines how this myth of the self-made man, someone who achieves success solely through their own hard work and determination, has been an enduring ideal in American society. The author explores the social and cultural factors that have contributed to the popularity of this myth, such as the American Dream and the belief in upward mobility. The article also analyzes the limitations and criticisms of the self-made man myth, highlighting the importance of recognizing the role of privilege and societal factors in individual success.
The Woman Who Walked 10,000 Miles (No Exaggeration) in Three Years
This article from The New York Times Magazine tells the remarkable story of Sarah Marquis, a Swiss adventurer who walked approximately 10,000 miles over the course of three years. The article delves into Marquis's motivations for undertaking such an epic journey and the challenges she faced along the way, including encounters with dangerous animals, extreme weather conditions, and personal hardships. It explores the physical and emotional toll that long-distance trekking can take on an individual, as well as the profound sense of freedom and self-discovery that can be found in such experiences. Through Marquis's story, the article offers insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of walking.
The Sound So Loud That It Circled the Earth Four Times
This blog post delves into the phenomenon of the 'Krakatoa' volcanic eruption in 1883, which produced a sound so incredibly loud that it traveled around the Earth four times. The author explains that the explosion was one of the loudest sounds ever recorded in history, reaching an estimated 172 decibels at a distance of 100 miles from the volcano. The post explores the science behind the propagation of sound waves and how the unique circumstances surrounding the Krakatoa eruption allowed the sound to travel such vast distances. It also discusses the impact of the eruption on the environment and its consequences. Overall, this article provides a fascinating insight into a remarkable natural event and its acoustic implications.
The Experiment That Forever Changed How We Think About Reality
This article on Wired discusses Bell's Theorem, which is a fundamental concept in quantum physics. It explains how Bell's Theorem challenges the classical view of physics and introduces the concept of entanglement. The article explores the experiment conducted by physicist John Clauser in 1972, which provided evidence for the violation of Bell's Inequality and supported the quantum mechanical view that particles can be connected or entangled, regardless of the distance between them. The article also touches upon the implications of Bell's Theorem in areas such as teleportation and quantum cryptography. Overall, it provides a concise overview of Bell's Theorem and its significance in the field of quantum physics.
California blue whales, once nearly extinct, are back at historic levels
This article discusses the historic decline of blue whales due to commercial hunting, and highlights their remarkable recovery in recent years. It provides a brief overview of the whaling industry's impact on blue whale populations, noting that by the mid-20th century, they were on the brink of extinction. The article then delves into the factors that contributed to their recovery, including international conservation efforts, bans on commercial whaling, and the slow but steady increase in their numbers. It also emphasizes the significance of ongoing conservation efforts to ensure the continued rebound of blue whale populations. Overall, the article sheds light on the past and present conservation status of blue whales, offering hope for the preservation of these magnificent creatures.
The Value Of A Founder’s Time (with data)
In this blog post, the author discusses the value of a founder's time in the context of startups and entrepreneurship. The author emphasizes that time is the most precious resource for a founder and that how they allocate their time is crucial for the success of their business. They discuss the importance of prioritization, focusing on high-impact activities, and delegating tasks to maximize productivity. The post also highlights the need for founders to constantly evaluate the value of their time and make strategic decisions accordingly. Overall, the author aims to convey the significance of utilizing a founder's time wisely to drive growth and achieve success.
It’s Decorative Gourd Season, Motherfuckers
This humorous essay celebrates the arrival of autumn and the tradition of decorating gourds. The author humorously describes the enthusiasm and obsession people have for this particular seasonal activity, poking fun at the excessive use of gourds in home decorations. The essay includes colorful language and satirical anecdotes, capturing the quintessential spirit of the fall season and the seemingly inexplicable joy derived from adorning one's home with decorative gourds.
How Two Men Unlocked Modern Encryption
This article tells the story of Whitfield Diffie and Martin Hellman, two pioneers in the field of encryption who revolutionized the way we secure information online. It discusses how Diffie and Hellman developed the concept of public-key cryptography, which allows for secure communication between two parties without the need for a shared secret key. The article explores the challenges they faced in convincing the government and academic community about the importance of their work, and the eventual breakthrough that led to the widespread adoption of their encryption methods. It also delves into the implications of their work on privacy, security, and the future of encryption technology.