Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg Becoming a goat to avoid existential dread (with Thomas Thwaites)
9 snips
Aug 7, 2024 
Thomas Thwaites, an award-winning design researcher and author, shares his unique projects exploring technology's psychological impacts. He humorously recounts his attempt to build a toaster from scratch, highlighting the complexities of modern manufacturing and supply chains. Delving into the concept of embodying goats, he contrasts human and goat perspectives, unraveling insights about identity. The discussion also touches on creating harmless products and the ethics of design in a world facing environmental challenges, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining conversation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Toaster Project
- Thomas Thwaites, a designer, attempted to build a toaster from scratch to understand manufacturing complexity.
- He bought the cheapest toaster, disassembled it, and found over 400 components, highlighting the intricate global supply chain.
Sourcing Iron Ore
- Thwaites' quest for steel began with sourcing iron ore, leading him to a Welsh mine.
- He learned that modern mining differs vastly from historical methods due to resource depletion.
Microwave Smelting
- Thwaites struggled to smelt iron, initially failing despite consulting experts.
- He resorted to using a microwave, successfully smelting small iron lumps, demonstrating adaptability.
