The Score: Gamifying the Nature of Metrics with Thi Nguyen

In this conversation, the discussion with C. Thi Nguyen revolves around the nature of metrics, qualitative knowledge, and the duality of scoring systems, particularly in the context of climbing. The speaker shares personal experiences with climbing as a case study to illustrate how scoring systems can both enhance and detract from the experience. The conversation delves into the beauty of climbing, the subtlety of value in metrics, and the importance of savoring moments in games. It also explores the tension between purpose and game mechanics, the role of enjoyment, and the complexities of scoring systems in both games and life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the challenges of balancing values in decision-making and the risks associated with the gamification of various aspects of life.

Takeaways

• Metrics can miss the subtlety of qualitative knowledge.
• Scoring systems can enhance or detract from experiences.
• Climbing serves as a unique case study for scoring systems.
• The beauty of climbing lies in its scoring system.
• Values can become obscured when metrics are prioritized.
• Games allow for exploration of different scoring systems.
• Achievement play focuses on winning, while striving play values the process.
• External expectations can pressure individuals to conform to metrics.
• The addictive nature of games can lead to negative experiences.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Intricacies of Portability and Judgment
• 01:12 Introduction and Social Media Presence
• 03:40 The Value of Climbing and Scoring Systems
• 07:16 The Impact of Numbers in Climbing
• 09:42 Savoring the Moment vs. Obsession with Scoring
• 10:59 Goals vs. Purpose in Games
• 12:39 Understanding Value Capture
• 17:53 The Shift in Standards of Success
• 20:33 The Limitations of Metrics
• 21:42 Games as a Reflection of Human Desire
• 24:37 The Purpose Behind Scoring Systems
• 26:07 The Magic Circle of Games
• 29:15 Achievement Play vs. Striving Play
• 34:47 When Games Become Unsafe
• 38:21 The Pitfalls of Portability in Metrics

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