Lateral with Tom Scott

25: A deliberately bad program

7 snips
Mar 31, 2023
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ANECDOTE

Bug Ignored Because The Device Will Be Destroyed

  • Software engineer Kent Mitchell reported memory leaks in defense-company code but was told, “of course it leaks.”
  • The company ignored the bug because the missile's guidance computer only needed to survive until the munition exploded.
INSIGHT

Thermometer Displays For Blood Supply

  • The Australian Red Cross uses eight thermometer-style displays to show current levels of the eight major blood groups.
  • Visual gauges with symbols prompt visitors to donate when specific blood types run low.
INSIGHT

Cross Mark And Kiss Origin

  • Medieval signings reportedly used a cross mark because many signers couldn't write their names.
  • The cross was kissed as a sign of sincerity, inspiring the phrase "sealed with a kiss."
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