LessWrong (Curated & Popular) [Linkpost] “Playing in the Creek” by Hastings
Apr 11, 2025
Dive into nostalgic childhood adventures as the speaker recalls dam-building in their backyard. They share insights on evolving from simple tactics to complex problem-solving as we grow up. This journey highlights the parallels between playful discovery and the strategic challenges encountered in adulthood, especially within the realm of artificial intelligence. A whimsical yet profound exploration of creativity and growth awaits.
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The Creek Damming Game
- As a child, Hastings enjoyed damming the creek in his backyard using rocks, leaves, and sand.
- He realized he could simplify the process by using a shovel to collapse the riverbank, but this made the game less engaging.
The Price of Efficiency
- Finding the easiest solution can diminish the enjoyment of a challenge.
- Growing up involves realizing that some efficient solutions limit further exploration and play.
Restricted Explorations
- After putting a hole in the ceiling with a catapult, Hastings had to be more careful with his building projects.
- His experimentation with sparklers and bow-making also faced restrictions due to potential risks and mastery.