This week, the discussion centers on a dubious resignation offer to federal employees that raises red flags about its true intentions. There's also a deep dive into Nvidia's stock plunge, a cautionary tale about AI competition disrupting markets. Surprisingly, physical bookstores are making a comeback, with Barnes & Noble leading the charge in creating unique consumer experiences. Additionally, social media trends are transforming backlist books into bestsellers, while egg prices spark a humorous examination of agricultural policies.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Conditional Resignation Advice
Only resign from your federal job if you have a guaranteed new job.
Wait until you start the new job to avoid rescinded offers in this economy.
insights INSIGHT
AI Chip Demand Paradox
DeepSeek's efficient AI models suggest less reliance on expensive chips and electricity.
This could lead to more demand for chips in new applications (Jevons paradox).
question_answer ANECDOTE
Steam Engine Anecdote
Watt's steam engine, though efficient, increased steam engine demand, not decreased.
New applications emerged, proving the Jevons paradox: efficiency increases demand.
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The novel follows William Stoner, born on a small farm in Missouri in 1891, who is sent to the University of Missouri to study agriculture. However, he discovers a passion for literature and decides to pursue a career in English. The book delves into Stoner's undistinguished career, his marriage to Edith, his affair with Katherine Driscoll, and his complex relationships with his daughter Grace and his colleagues. It explores themes of work, passion, love, and the social and sexual reawakening of the protagonist, all set against the backdrop of his quiet yet rich and vibrant life as an academic[2][4][5].
All About Love
New Visions
Bell Hooks
In 'All About Love: New Visions,' bell hooks delves into the complexities of love, arguing that it is an act of will rather than a strong feeling. The book is divided into thirteen chapters, each addressing a different aspect of love, such as childhood, family dynamics, honesty, commitment, spirituality, and community. hooks reflects on her own experiences and societal teachings on love, emphasizing the importance of clarity, justice, and honesty in loving relationships. She also critiques the ways in which capitalism and patriarchy distort our understanding of love and advocates for a return to a more authentic and transformative form of love that is rooted in mutual respect, trust, and communication.
The Sirens' Call
How Attention Became the World's Most Endangered Resource
Chris Hayes
In The Sirens' Call, Chris Hayes delves into the impact of the attention economy on our lives, politics, and society. He argues that the constant assault from attention-seeking technologies and media has fundamentally altered our ability to focus and has significant implications for our mental health, social structures, and political landscape. Hayes draws on a wide range of sources, including philosophers, media theorists, and psychologists, to provide a holistic framework for understanding and reclaiming control over our attention in a world dominated by 'attentional warlordism'[1][3][4].
Treconomics
Treconomics
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Manu Sadia
Treconomics by Manu Sadia delves into the economic consequences of technological progress, particularly focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on labor markets and economic growth. The book examines how technological advancements reshape industries, create new opportunities, and disrupt traditional economic models. Sadia analyzes the potential for both positive and negative outcomes, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by technological change. The book offers insights into policy responses and strategies for navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. It provides a framework for understanding the economic forces at play and for making informed decisions in the face of technological disruption.
This week: The Trump administration offered a resignation deal to millions of federal employees. Felix Salmon, Emily Peck, and Elizabeth Spiers discuss why this plan seems like a bad idea – for everyone. Then, Invidia’s stock dropped this week when Deepseek proved AI can be done cheaper. But is this just steam engines and Jevons paradox all over again? Finally, the bookstore is back. The hosts discuss the recent success of Barnes & Noble and why they, and other bookstores, are the unexpected winners of the digital media age.
In the Slate Plus episode: CVS has a new way of locking up their stuff.
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