A multi-directional assault on the foundations of American research
Things Are Bad At Tesla. They’re About To Get Much Worse.
Tesla is facing significant declines in sales across major markets, including a 31% drop in California and a 29% fall in China. Competitors, especially Chinese companies like BYD, are rapidly gaining ground by offering better technology and lower prices. As Tesla's brand reputation worsens and its stock plummets, the company's future looks increasingly uncertain.
Mitochondria, once thought to be simple organelles, are actually living entities that play vital roles in cellular functions. They have their own DNA, reproduce independently, and interact with their environment, making them essential for energy production and cellular health. Understanding mitochondria as living forms could lead to advances in treating diseases and improving human health.
America Is Watching the Rise of a Dual State
The article discusses Ernst Fraenkel's concept of a "dual state," where a government maintains normal laws for some citizens while creating a parallel zone of lawlessness for others. It warns that similar tactics are emerging in the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration, which could lead to targeted suppression of dissent. The piece emphasizes that while many may remain unaffected, the dangers of such a system can ultimately threaten everyone’s rights.
This Habit Will Outlast Every Notes App
You don’t need new apps to enhance your creativity; you just need to engage more deeply with what you already have. Writing helps clarify your thoughts and can lead to greater understanding and growth. Start small by setting a timer for two minutes to write one idea, and see how it transforms your thinking.
AI techniques are being used for antibody design, but progress is often exaggerated by companies. Many new antibodies are simply improved versions of existing therapies, not groundbreaking new drugs. True innovation in this field is still years away.
China’s Hidden Tech Revolution
Chinese firms have advanced in technology by improving their manufacturing capabilities, allowing them to compete effectively with Western companies. Their success is rooted in a strong industrial ecosystem and government support, rather than just copying Western innovations. As a result, China is emerging as a major tech power, challenging the U.S. in various strategic industries.
Elon Musk and spiky intelligence
Elon Musk is highly intelligent in some areas but lacks in others, a concept known as "spiky intelligence." While he demonstrates brilliance in his achievements, he also exhibits poor judgment and social skills. It's important to recognize that being smart does not excuse unwise actions or decisions.
On September 26, 2009, ordinary citizens in 38 countries gathered to discuss climate change in an event called World Wide Views on Global Warming. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between policymakers and citizens by allowing them to deliberate on important environmental questions. The author suggests that similar global discussions could help address complex issues, like the ethics of immortality, by gathering diverse opinions and developing guidelines for the future.
The article discusses the implications of radical life extension and the potential for increased population growth if death is cured. However, the author argues that population changes are likely to be gradual rather than explosive, and that society has historically adapted to demographic shifts. The author emphasizes the need for careful deliberation and ethical considerations as we explore these scientific advancements.
The pursuit of anti-aging treatments, like NAD boosters, is gaining attention as scientists explore ways to extend human life. However, there are ethical concerns about the impact of these developments on society, especially regarding inequality and population growth. Critics worry that focusing on longevity for the wealthy could worsen existing global issues, such as climate change and resource distribution.
The text discusses the concept of biological age and its connection to aging and longevity research. It highlights the role of epigenetics in how our cells express genes and how this process can lead to aging when the repair systems in our body fail. New technologies, like the Index saliva test, aim to measure biological age and potentially slow down the aging process.
The average global life expectancy has doubled since 1920, primarily due to fewer children dying young. Recent studies suggest that aging could be treated like a disease, with specific genes influencing lifespan. This new understanding opens the possibility for humans to live significantly longer lives in the future.
Next week, the author will start serializing a new extended essay called "Immortality: A User's Guide" for paying subscribers. The essay will explore the latest developments in radical life extension and the potential social consequences. The author believes that the digital age has liberated creators from traditional formats and constraints. They express their frustration with the lack of a middle ground between magazine articles and books, and announce their intention to fill that gap with this new project. The essay will discuss the paradigm shift in our understanding of aging and contemplate the societal implications of potential changes in human life expectancy. In addition to the text version, there will be an audio version developed in partnership with The Next Big Idea Club.
The story of Jeanne Calment and Andre-Francois Raffray highlights the unexpected outcomes of long life, as Calment lived to be 122 years old, outlasting Raffray, who paid her for an apartment he never got to occupy. This tale serves as a cautionary reminder that if human lifespans extend significantly, society must prepare for the potential consequences of such demographic changes. The author explores whether radical life extension is possible and what it would mean for our future.
Life Is More Than an Engineering Problem
In a recent conversation, authors Melanie Mitchell and Alison Gopnik discussed how science fiction helps frame ideas about artificial intelligence. They explore the complexities of AI, emphasizing that it lacks genuine reasoning and subjective experiences. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding AI as a tool, rather than equating it to human intelligence and creativity.
Young men often migrate not due to crisis, but because of success that leads to inequality in their homelands. As societies develop, many young men feel like surplus, with fewer opportunities for work and family, prompting them to seek better lives elsewhere. This desire to migrate reflects a hope for change and the willingness to take risks for survival.
We Live Like Royalty and Don’t Know It
The author reflects on how modern middle-class Americans live in luxury compared to historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, who struggled with basic comforts. He emphasizes that many people today are unaware of the complex systems that provide essential services like food, water, and health. The author argues for the importance of understanding these systems to ensure a better future for the next generation.
Designing a Workflow For Thinking
Steven Johnson is launching a series of essays on creating effective workflows for generating and organizing ideas. He emphasizes the importance of regularly reviewing and updating the tools we use for thought, inspired by his experiences with early software like Hypercard. This series will include practical strategies and tool recommendations, available exclusively to paying subscribers.
The text discusses the concept of the Technological Singularity, where technological progress accelerates to the point of creating entities with greater-than-human intelligence. Various paths to achieving this include superintelligent computers, networked systems, and human-computer interfaces. The potential impacts, challenges, and implications of the Singularity are explored, along with considerations for the future.
The Long Road to End Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health threat, killing about 1.2 million people each year despite existing vaccines and antibiotics. New vaccines and antibiotics are urgently needed to combat rising drug resistance and improve treatment effectiveness. Researchers are hopeful about recent innovations and repurposed drugs that could lead to breakthroughs in controlling TB.
Two biotechs say they’re using AI to conjure drugs from scratch. Their documents suggest otherwise
Two biotech companies claim they are using AI to create new drugs from scratch. However, documents suggest their methods may not be as groundbreaking as they say. Absci's CEO presented their approach at a major healthcare conference, claiming it could revolutionize antibody development.
Copying memory in multi-threaded environments can lead to unpredictable results if one thread modifies the data while another is copying it. This situation, known as a data race, occurs when multiple threads access the same memory location without proper synchronization. To avoid crashes and undefined behavior, programmers can implement safe memory copy functions using atomic operations, though this may result in slower performance.
Stories of Your Life and Others
In "Stories of Your Life and Others," characters explore a mysterious looking glass that reveals a captivating room but no aliens. The Heptapod language, resembling intricate designs, amazes them with its visual beauty. As they engage with the glass and its effects, they reflect on lost opportunities and the complexities of understanding.
Reading classic novels like "Middlemarch" and "Bleak House" helps us understand the complex inner lives of characters and their connections to various societal layers. These novels offer rich simulations of human experiences, enhancing our ability to think across different perspectives. They provide a unique glimpse into the emotional and cognitive aspects of life in earlier times, making them valuable for full-spectrum thinking.
Issue 105: Why is everybody reading Middlemarch right now?
Many people on Substack are currently reading classic novels like Middlemarch and War and Peace, sparking vibrant discussions about their themes and characters. This trend reflects a desire for deeper engagement with literature in a fast-paced digital world. Reading these classics offers a meaningful way to reconnect with complex ideas and foster community, as people share their insights and experiences.
Here’s why we’re not prepared for the next wave of biotech innovation
Many new medicines fail in clinical trials, and current shortcuts like "real-world evidence" are not replacing the need for rigorous studies. This lack of proper testing makes it harder to know if new treatments are safe and effective. To advance biotech innovation, we need more large-scale clinical trials and better data collection methods.
The author argues that India and America should strengthen their ties, as both nations share common interests. During his visit, he observed that Indian elites are more focused on China than Pakistan and are concerned about Western perceptions of India. He believes that India's unique cultural identity offers valuable lessons for the West, especially in the context of nationalism and modernization.
Do Not Trust Journalists (A Mormon Example)
The New York Times faced criticism for its obituary of Thomas Monson, the former leader of the Mormon Church, focusing on his rejections of social changes rather than his significant contributions. Critics argue that the Times' framing reflects a narrow perspective on journalism, ignoring the broader impact of Monson's life and legacy. This situation highlights ongoing issues with how journalists report on religious figures and communities.
The Free Lunch Is Over A Fundamental Turn Toward Concurrency in Software
The article discusses a shift towards using hyperthreading and multicore architectures in software due to changes in hardware. Software developers will need to embrace concurrency to take advantage of future CPU performance gains. Concurrency will play a key role in maximizing processor throughput and improving software efficiency.
Why Skyscrapers Became Glass Boxes
Skyscrapers became glass boxes because they are cheaper to build and appeal to tenants who prefer light and space over ornate designs. Developers focus on economics and often avoid spending on decorative features that tenants do not value. This trend, driven by modernist architects and risk aversion, has made the glass box aesthetic the norm in skyscraper construction.
Opinion | Why Are Housing Costs So High? The Elevator Can Explain Why. - The New York Times
The high costs and low quality of housing in America are linked to the challenges surrounding elevator construction, with regulations, labor costs, and lack of standardization contributing to the problem. American elevators are larger and more expensive than those in other parts of the world due to stringent regulations and union restrictions on preassembly and prefabrication. To make elevators more affordable and abundant, reforms are needed to align with global standards, increase competition, and improve vocational training for native-born workers.
Advancements in reproductive technology, like artificial wombs, are focused on helping extremely premature infants rather than replacing natural pregnancy. While research shows promise for extending women's fertility, true artificial wombs for healthy pregnancies are still far from reality. Current innovations allow for better embryo selection and potential future methods for producing eggs, but challenges remain.
The False Promise of Device-Based Education
The article discusses the negative impact of screens in education, suggesting that technology does not necessarily improve learning outcomes and may even hinder students' development. It highlights myths about educational technology, emphasizing that excessive screen time can lead to distractions and social-emotional issues. The author calls for a reevaluation of technology use in schools to prioritize meaningful learning and student well-being.
Paz feels overwhelmed as she and her companions prepare to leave a dusty, familiar place, reflecting on her past. She desperately wants to communicate with the elders and ensure they haven’t missed anything important before they go. Tension rises as her friends, Essien and Moon, approach with their own concerns about their safety and the urgency of their situation.
On Consolation: Notes on Our Search for Meaning and the Antidote to Resignation
Maria Popova's "On Consolation" explores how we seek meaning and hope amid life's inevitable hardships. The author emphasizes that consolation is a shared journey that connects us to the wisdom of those who faced despair before us. Ultimately, finding solace involves recognizing our own resilience and the importance of hope as we navigate loss and suffering.
Science Proceeds One Question at a Time
Ernst Mayr discusses how both Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace developed the theory of evolution by natural selection, despite Wallace's work prompting Darwin to publish his ideas quickly. Mayr emphasizes that scientific progress often comes from asking the right questions rather than technological advancements. He believes that good questions can lead to significant discoveries, even if the initial answers are incorrect.
"Rise and Grind" emphasizes that hard work and getting things done are essential for entrepreneurial success. The author believes that business must consume your thoughts and that many people fail because they do not execute this mindset. While success is not guaranteed, those who embrace this approach are likely to achieve substantial wealth.
Degrowth can work — here’s how science can help
High-income economies consume energy and materials unsustainably, leading to environmental damage. Researchers are calling for a different approach called degrowth, which focuses on securing human well-being and reducing unnecessary production. Implementing degrowth strategies can lower carbon emissions, stabilize employment, and enable sustainable development.
Ideas matter: How I stopped being a Culture Incel
The author reflects on their transformation from being a "Culture Incel" to embracing a more optimistic and open-minded perspective. They discuss the influence of culture on scientific and technological progress, citing the Industrial Revolution as an example. They also highlight the shift towards excessive caution and pessimism in elite thought, particularly regarding topics like climate change. The author shares their personal journey of shedding their "Inceldom" and credits the Marginal Revolution blog and engaging with like-minded individuals on Twitter as factors that helped shape their new perspective.
The EdTech Revolution Has Failed
The article argues that using digital devices like laptops and tablets in classrooms harms student learning rather than helping it. Research shows that frequent computer use leads to poorer academic outcomes and distracts students from focusing on their studies. The author suggests that schools should consider returning to more traditional teaching methods to improve educational results.
Now is the time of monsters ⊗ Trouble transitioning ⊗ Living alongside computer people
No.340 — Artists challenge us to imagine a more optimistic world ⊗ How AI uncovers new ways to tackle difficult diseases ⊗ Libraries positively impact community health and well-being
The world is an objectively worse place because of tech-bro oligarchs
Tech CEOs like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are criticized for their harmful influence on society. Their focus on profit often leads to the degradation of valuable services and harmful rhetoric. The author expresses a desire for a better world, questioning the idea of living forever in the current state of affairs.
The main lesson from 70 years of AI research is that relying on computational methods, like search and learning, is more effective than using human knowledge. Initial efforts often focused on human understanding, but breakthroughs came when researchers embraced computation. The complexity of the mind should not dictate AI design; instead, we should enable AI to discover and learn on its own.
REVIEW: Reentry, by Eric Berger
Eric Berger's book "Reentry" explores how SpaceX, under Elon Musk, revolutionized the space industry by taking significant risks and prioritizing speed and innovation. Despite facing numerous challenges and fierce competition, SpaceX's unique approach has led to groundbreaking advancements in rocket technology and cost reduction. The company's mission to enable human life on other planets drives its relentless pursuit of ambitious goals.
The author uses writing as a tool to deeply investigate topics, starting with a hypothesis and refining it through research and discussion. This process involves repeatedly explaining, defending, and challenging their ideas to focus their learning. By writing early, the author aims to retain their reasoning and develop clear views on important subjects.
Advice That Actually Worked For Me
Starting your day with a productive task boosts your energy and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. Avoid checking social media in the morning, as it can drain your motivation and energy. Consistency in doing one important thing each day is key to maintaining productivity and overall well-being.
Reader: Frequently Asked Questions
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