My Recommended Articles
Technology
The
Case Against Quantum Computing — Mikhail Dyakonov
Prospects for quantum computing:
extremely doubtful — Mikhail Dyakonov
Will
We Ever Get Quantum Computers? — Jack Ganslle
Quantum
computing as a field is obvious bullshit — Scott Locklin
These articles have skeptical perspectives on quantum computing. Dyakonov offers the perspective of a physicist, the first article is less technical, the second is more technical though older; Ganslle is an embedded systems engineer, who adds a little commentary to Dyakonov; Locklin compares how the fields of traditional and quantum computing came to be, and makes a great comparison to the field of nanotechnology. Before reading these articles, I actually had an interest in quantum computing, enough to try learn how to write quantum programs. I thought it would’ve been cool and cutting-edge, like working at IBM in the 60s. Maybe I could’ve made a new algorithm and named it after me. But after reading these articles, as well as some papers of contemporary experiments, I’m convinced there is nothing really in it. Time will tell.
The Seven Deadly Sins Of Predicting The Future Of AI — Rodney Brooks
Points out some problems with popular AI discourse. It’s never been so important as now for people to dispell their notions about AI, because regardless of it’s suitability for a problem, it’s going to be shoved everywhere for some time still.
Google is on the Wrong Side of History — Matthew Guariglia
Though it’s not known if Google are working on AI weapons or not, the fact they went out of their way to backtrack their stance suggests they have seriously considered it at the very least. Something important to think about.
Running Lisp In Production — Vsevolod Dyomkin, Grammarly
Discusses how Grammarly uses Common Lisp for their high-traffic grammar engine, and the issues they encountered and solved.
The Internet Is Already Over — Sam Kriss
Discusses some things similar to my piece on social media’s future but is broader and more detailed. The points about how various tech companies received money, and about growing skepticism of online advertising, are particularly interesting.
Music
Keith Hill builds musical instruments. He wrote this piece on clavichords, little-known instruments from the early Common Practice Period usually used for private keyboard practice or small performances. Here he talks about ones he’s built, and what makes a good clavichord.
Misc
Copying & Repetition — Zed Shaw
If you believe that conceptual learning is superior to rote learning, I recommend you read this article to see a different perspective. My own humdrum opinion is that they’re equally important.