Books (and extra) | Seth’s Weblog

Brad Feld has been contributing to and main the tech group for greater than thirty years. His books have all the time been inspiring and helpful, however his new ebook takes it to a better stage.

Adam Becker has written two books that I just lately devoured. The first is philosophy, historical past and political drama, all woven collectively to clarify, maybe for the primary time most individuals will really perceive, how quantum mechanics works (and doesn’t). It’s thrilling and extremely advisable.

That led me to his new ebook, an articulate and well-reasoned takedown of the absurdity of Mars missions, transhumanism and a sterile AI future.

Which results in this current video. We’re doubtless on the cusp of a cultural doom spiral attributable to lifelike pretend AI movies. I’m undecided that the readability and urgency of this message shall be ample, as a result of video is such a strong (and trusted) medium and individuals are hesitant to surrender the belief they’ve in it. “I noticed it with my very own eyes,” means much less day-after-day.

Folks purchased snake oil even after they understood that snake oil doesn’t work.

Recoding America by Jen Pahlka is vital, well timed and well worth the learn. It explores techniques we not often discover however are sometimes annoyed by. She’s been working tirelessly to carry agile and user-focused design to group providers like authorities, and the ebook is highly effective and persuasive.

Validation is a fast learn, and it highlights a easy reality about nearly everybody: it helps to be seen. We get the possibility to do that–to not manipulate individuals, however to open a connection so we are able to accompany them on their journey ahead.

My buddy Dannagal Younger has written a profound ebook about persuasion, techniques and media. It helps us see how propaganda and misinformation are simple to unfold.