Into the Impossible With Brian Keating cover image

New COLD WAR Over Computer Chips? w/ Chris Miller (#391)

Into the Impossible With Brian Keating

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The Role of Attention in Shaping History

The insight highlights the case of Shockley, who, while important in developing the theory and initial inventions for the first transistor, also exemplifies how individuals can shape history to give themselves an exaggerated role. Shockley was one of three scientists who devised the first transistor, where his major role was in theorizing rather than devising it. Despite this, he positioned himself at the center of the announcement photo, garnering most of the credit for the invention. However, history overlooks the fact that Shockley was a failed businessperson, unable to mass produce transistors, which was achieved by individuals like Gordon Moore. Ultimately, the insight emphasizes that in technology trends, the focus should shift from the scientists who invented the technology to the people who learned how to mass produce it.

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