Akimbo: A Podcast from Seth Godin Operating systems (E)
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Aug 14, 2024 Explore the evolution of operating systems, both in technology and urban design. Discover how city planning influences functionality, comparing the strategies of Robert Moses and Jane Jacobs. Delve into the profound effects of software design choices and their broader implications. Examine the contrasts between open and closed systems, especially in the context of art and voting. Finally, unravel the art of marketing, balancing transparency with intrigue for a captivating audience experience.
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Flying Toasters Screensaver Hack
- Flying Toasters was a screensaver made by Berkeley software in 1989 that hacked the Mac operating system to display dancing flying toasters.
- This hack improved user experience by turning monitors into animated, entertaining screensavers.
Cities as Operating Systems
- Cities are operating systems made of rules about how spaces are used and interact.
- Infrastructure like roads endures because it defines the city's core operating system despite changes in buildings.
Right on Red is a Choice
- Right on red is not natural law but a choice in U.S. cities that saves time and fuel.
- Operating system differences mean Europe largely forbids right on red while U.S. embraces it by federal law.