Pieces
As Interest Fades in the Humanities, Colleges Worry
This New York Times article discusses the declining interest in humanities fields among college students. It highlights concerns from colleges and universities about the implications of this trend and the potential impact on the broader education system. The article explores various factors contributing to the decline, including the emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields and the perception that humanities degrees may not lead to lucrative careers. It also raises questions about the importance of a well-rounded education and the value of studying subjects like literature, history, and philosophy. The article concludes by emphasizing the need to find a balance between practical skills and a broader understanding of human culture and society.
The Fascinating Story of Why U.S. Parks Are Full of Squirrels
This article delves into the interesting history behind the presence of squirrels in U.S. parks. It explains that the abundance of squirrels in parks across the country is not a natural occurrence but rather a result of deliberate introductions by humans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The article highlights how squirrels were brought in from various locations, including Europe and different parts of the U.S., to add an element of nature and entertainment to urban parks. It also touches on the unintended consequences of these introductions, such as ecological disruptions and conflicts with native species. Overall, the article provides a captivating account of the origins of squirrels in U.S. parks and the implications of their presence.
What It's Like to Fail
This blog post shares personal stories of failure and explores the lessons learned from these experiences. The author emphasizes the importance of failure in personal growth and highlights how society often stigmatizes and fears failure. The post includes anecdotes from various individuals who have faced failure in different aspects of their lives and reflects on the insights gained from those experiences. Overall, it aims to shift the perspective on failure and encourage embracing it as a crucial part of the journey towards success.
Time is not money
This article discusses a study that found thinking about time, rather than money, can lead to more altruistic behavior. The study conducted experiments where participants were asked to think about either time or money before making decisions regarding generosity and helping others. The findings showed that those who were primed to think about time were more likely to make choices that benefitted others, while those who were primed to think about money were less likely to act in a selfless manner. The article suggests that shifting one's mindset to focus on the concept of time can enhance empathy and lead to more pro-social behaviors.
Open access
This article delves into the world of scientific publishing, specifically focusing on the costs associated with accessing scientific research. It highlights how traditional subscription-based models hinder access to scientific knowledge and limit its potential for societal impact. The article explores the emergence of open access publishing as an alternative model, which allows for free and unrestricted access to research articles. It discusses the various business models and challenges associated with open access publishing, such as article processing charges and the need for sustainable funding. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the need for a transition towards open access in order to improve the accessibility, affordability, and overall impact of scientific research.
Not in my house
This article discusses the constant battle between Las Vegas casinos and cheaters, focusing on the role of security technology in detecting and preventing cheating. It highlights the sophisticated surveillance systems employed by casinos, including high-resolution cameras, facial recognition software, and analytics algorithms. The article explains how these technologies are used to monitor both players and employees for suspicious behavior and cheating techniques. It also delves into specific cases of successful and unsuccessful attempts at cheating in casinos, showcasing the challenges faced by both sides. Overall, the article sheds light on the intricate cat-and-mouse game between casinos and cheaters, showcasing the evolving security measures designed to maintain the integrity of the gambling industry.
Fecal finders
This article explores the use of poop-sniffing dogs to study the diet and health of killer whales. The author discusses how killer whales are apex predators and their role in marine ecosystems. The article explains that by collecting and analyzing the fecal matter of killer whales, researchers can gain insights into their diet, stress levels, and reproductive status. Poop-sniffing dogs are trained to locate and retrieve the floating fecal matter, which is then used for scientific analysis. This non-invasive method provides valuable information about the health and well-being of killer whales and helps researchers understand the impact of environmental changes on their population.
The cult of the cookie clicker
This article discusses the addictive nature of the popular online game, Cookie Clicker, and questions whether it can truly be considered a game. It explores the simple mechanics of the game, which involve repeatedly clicking on a cookie to accumulate points and unlock upgrades. The article also delves into the psychology behind the game's appeal, highlighting its ability to tap into players' desire for achievement and their inclination towards repetitive tasks. While some argue that Cookie Clicker lacks certain qualities typically associated with games, such as clear objectives or challenges, others counter that it still provides a form of entertainment and satisfaction. Ultimately, the article contemplates the line between what defines a game and the addictive experiences that can arise from seemingly simple interactions.
Squirrel Power!
In this opinion piece from The New York Times, the author discusses the incredible feats of squirrels and their adaptation to urban environments. The article highlights how squirrels have successfully navigated and thrived in cities, despite the challenges they face. It explores the squirrels' ability to problem-solve and adapt to human-made obstacles in their quest for food. The author uses the example of squirrels opening latch-locked bird feeders as a demonstration of their ingenuity and resourcefulness. The article ultimately celebrates squirrels as resilient creatures that have managed to coexist with humans even in the most urbanized areas.
I’m Thinking. Please. Be Quiet.
In this thought-provoking article, the author reflects on the impact of constant distractions and the importance of solitude in our lives. The author describes how we are constantly bombarded with information and the need to always be connected, which leaves little room for deep thinking and introspection. He argues that we need quiet moments of solitude to fully engage in critical thinking and creativity. The article explores the concept of 'smartphone hush' and the dangers of constantly seeking external distractions rather than embracing moments of silence. The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of carving out quiet spaces and times in our lives to foster deep thinking and self-reflection.
The Truth About Marissa Mayer
This article provides a biography of Marissa Mayer, the former CEO of Yahoo. It highlights Mayer's early career at Google, where she played a crucial role in the development of popular products such as Google Search and Gmail. The article delves into Mayer's tenure at Yahoo, discussing the challenges she faced in turning around the struggling company and her controversial decisions during her leadership. It also explores Mayer's reputation as a hardworking and innovative leader. Overall, the article presents a comprehensive overview of Marissa Mayer's career and the impact she has had in the tech industry.
The Myth of Japan’s Failure
This opinion piece from The New York Times explores the factors that contributed to Japan's economic success in the post-World War II era. The author argues that Japan's emphasis on education and innovation played a crucial role in its economic rise. They highlight the importance of Japan's focus on technological advancements, investment in infrastructure, and a strong work ethic. The article also discusses the challenges faced by Japan in recent years, including an aging population and economic stagnation. Overall, it provides a historical perspective on Japan's economic trajectory and offers insights into the country's approach to economic development.