AI Summaries from The Week That Was- 25 June -1 July, 2023

Hey there!

Brace yourself for a whirlwind of knowledge as we dive into the vast world of thought-provoking articles, mind-expanding videos, captivating podcasts, and internet discussions from last week, and delivering you AI-generated summaries in one super-lengthy newsletter each weekend.

Science

• First Detection of Monster Gravitational Waves

  Researchers have potentially detected gravitational waves using a new technique that tracks changes in the distances between Earth and pulsar stars. These waves are thousands of times stronger and longer than those detected in 2015, with wavelengths of up to tens of light years. The most likely source of these waves is the combined signal from many pairs of much larger black holes slowly orbiting each other in distant galaxies. The researchers have seen hints of an expected signature of gravitational waves, but without the statistical certainty of a firm discovery. If confirmed, this discovery will open up new avenues for studying gravitational waves and black holes. (Source)

• Exercise: A Potent Tool for Mental Health Improvement

  A comprehensive study synthesizing decades of research on exercise and mental health suggests that physical activity can be as effective as therapy or medication in protecting against anxiety and depression. The study analyzed over 1,000 randomized controlled trials involving more than 128,000 participants. It found that exercise helped reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and distress more than standard treatments. The type of exercise did not matter, but higher-intensity workouts yielded more mental health benefits. Optimal results were seen with less than 2.5 hours of exercise per week, spread over four to five sessions. The benefits of exercise may not be immediate but should appear within weeks or months. However, the longer people engaged in exercise, the less beneficial it became for their mental health, possibly due to waning motivation or repetitiveness. (Source)

• Sweden Shifts Energy Targets to Include Nuclear Power in Fossil-Free Goal by 2045

  Sweden's parliament has voted to change its energy targets from 100% renewable energy to 100% fossil fuel-free by 2045, thereby including nuclear power in its energy mix. This move comes despite a vote 40 years ago to phase out nuclear reactors, a policy that was repealed in 2010. The government elected last year is promoting nuclear power as part of its strategy to meet the country's carbon neutrality target by 2045. The change in policy has been criticized by environmental campaigners who argue it contradicts Sweden's reputation as a green leader. Despite this, the state-owned utility Vattenfall plans to build at least two small modular reactors and extend the life of existing nuclear reactors. (Source)

• Begging Dolphins: A Call for Recreational Fishing Reform

  Researchers from the University of Queensland have discovered that bottlenose dolphins in Moreton Bay, off Brisbane, could be teaching other dolphins to "beg" for food from recreational fishers. This behavior poses both short and long-term risks. The study found a cluster of dolphins that consistently patrol moored boats, waiting for fishers to illegally toss them discarded bait or catches. The begging behavior is dangerous for the dolphins, and there is concern that it could spread throughout the population. Dolphins displaying these behaviors have also been sighted off Bribie Island and North Stradbroke Island. Some of these dolphins show evidence of propeller strike and fishing line entanglement. The findings highlight the need for better policing of illegal dolphin feeding in Moreton Bay and increased public education about the potential negative effects of dolphin feeding. (Source)

• Groundbreaking Achievement: World's First X-ray of a Single Atom

  In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of scientists from Ohio University, Argonne National Laboratory, and the University of Illinois-Chicago, led by Professor Saw Wai Hla, have taken the world's first X-ray signal of a single atom. This achievement, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, could revolutionize the way scientists detect materials. The team used a purpose-built synchrotron X-ray instrument at the XTIP beamline of Advanced Photon Source and the Center for Nanoscale Materials at Argonne National Laboratory. They chose an iron atom and a terbium atom, both inserted in respective molecular hosts, for demonstration. The research team used a specialized detector made of a sharp metal tip positioned at extreme proximity to the sample to collect X-ray excited electrons. This technique, known as synchrotron X-ray scanning tunneling microscopy (SX-STM), is effective in identifying the elemental type of the materials directly. The findings were published in the scientific journal Nature. (Source)

• Y Chromosome's Role in Aggressive Cancers in Men

  Two studies published in Nature have shed light on why men are less likely than women to survive some cancers, suggesting the Y chromosome could be a factor. One study found that the loss of the entire Y chromosome in some cells, which occurs naturally as men age, raises the risk of aggressive bladder cancer and could allow bladder tumours to evade detection by the immune system. The other study found that a particular Y-chromosome gene in mice raises the risk of some colorectal cancers spreading to other parts of the body. These findings are a step towards understanding why many cancers have a bias towards men, beyond lifestyle factors. The studies also suggest potential targets for anti-cancer therapies and better ways to treat these cancers. (Source)

• A Quarter-Century Bet on Consciousness Resolved: No Clear Neural Signature Found

  A 25-year-old bet between neuroscientist Christof Koch and philosopher David Chalmers on the nature of consciousness has been settled. In the late 1990s, Koch bet Chalmers that within 25 years, researchers would discover a clear neural pattern underlying consciousness. However, despite significant advancements in neuroscience, no such pattern has been definitively identified. Koch and Chalmers met at the annual meeting of the Association for the Scientific Study of Consciousness to settle their bet. They agreed that the evidence for a neural signature of consciousness was not "clear," leading Koch to concede. Despite this, Koch made a new bet that within the next 25 years, researchers will achieve the clarity that currently eludes them. The debate reflects the ongoing struggle to understand consciousness, a topic that continues to baffle scientists and philosophers alike. (Source)

• Alarming Rise in Tropical Forest Loss: Urgent Action Needed to Prevent Climate Consequences

  The world lost an area of tropical forest the size of Switzerland in 2022, an increase of 10% from 2021. Brazil lost the most forest at 1.8 million hectares, mainly due to deforestation under former President Bolsonaro. While new President Lula da Silva has pledged to end Amazon deforestation by 2030, that will be a difficult goal. Bolivia also saw a large increase in forest loss due to agricultural expansion. However, some countries like Indonesia and Malaysia saw reductions in forest loss due to policies aimed at sustainable production. Overall, urgent action is needed to meet the goal of stopping forest loss by 2030 as set by 145 countries, otherwise the Amazon could reach tipping points that impact the global climate. (Source)

• Examining the Plastic Waste Crisis: A Thought-Provoking Review of Recent Books

  The article begins with the story of how plastic was invented in the 1860s as a substitute for ivory, which was becoming scarce due to overuse. The first commercially produced plastic, celluloid, was followed by a series of other plastics, leading to an annual global production of over 800 billion pounds today.Plastic waste is now found everywhere, from the bottom of the Mariana Trench to uninhabited islands. It poses a threat to various species, including corals, tortoises, and elephants. The article raises questions about the severity of the plastic pollution crisis and what can be done about it.

  The article discusses the dangers of microplastics, which are tiny bits of plastic smaller than five millimeters. These microplastics can leach harmful chemicals into the environment and attract other toxic substances. They can also be ingested by humans and animals, posing potential health risks.The article criticizes the recycling industry, arguing that it is largely ineffective and often misleading. It points out that only a small fraction of plastic waste is actually recycled, and even then, the process degrades the plastic, limiting its reuse.

  The article concludes by arguing that the best solution to the plastic pollution crisis is to reduce the production and consumption of single-use plastics. However, it acknowledges that this will be a significant challenge due to political resistance from the plastics and fossil fuel industries, as well as the practical difficulties of finding suitable replacements for plastic. (Source)

• The SAT Math Problem That Stumped Everyone

  The article in Scientific American discusses an infamous SAT math question from 1982 that was so tricky, even its creators didn't include the correct answer. The problem was based on the coin rotation paradox, which involves rolling one coin around another and counting the number of rotations it makes.

  The paradox is counterintuitive: when a coin is rolled around another of the same size, it makes two full rotations, not one as many would expect. This phenomenon was not understood by the SAT test writers, leading to a question with no correct answer among the options.

  The article explains the paradox by considering two sources of rotation: one from rolling along a path (the longer it is, the more rotations) and another from revolving around an object, which contributes one rotation regardless of its size. This principle also applies to celestial bodies, explaining why the moon rotates once every time it completes an orbit around the Earth.

  The article concludes by noting that this paradox is not just a curiosity but has real-world implications, such as understanding the rotation of celestial bodies. (Source)

Society; Technology & Society

• EU Advances Towards User-Replaceable Smartphone Batteries

  The European Union (EU) is progressing with regulations to require smartphones to have user-replaceable batteries by 2027, aiming to benefit the environment and end users. However, there's another legislation, the Ecodesign for Smartphones and Tablets, which contains similar rules and is expected to come into effect earlier, around June or July 2025. The EU's definition of user-replaceable batteries focuses on the use of commercially available tools rather than proprietary ones. Despite some concerns about the specifics of the regulations, such as the compatibility of user-replaceable batteries with waterproofing, the move has been broadly welcomed by right-to-repair campaigners. The regulations still need to be formally endorsed and scrutinized by various EU bodies. (Source)

• National Geographic Lays Off All Remaining Staff Writers

  National Geographic magazine, a 135-year-old publication, has laid off all of its last remaining staff writers. The cutback, which involves some 19 editorial staffers, is the latest in a series under owner Walt Disney Co. Future article assignments will be contracted out to freelancers or pieced together by editors. The layoffs were the second over the past nine months, and the fourth since a series of ownership changes began in 2015. In a further cost-cutting move, copies of the print publication will no longer be sold on newsstands in the United States starting next year. The magazine's trajectory has been set in motion primarily by the decline of print and ascent of digital news and information. (Source)

• Sweden Shifts Energy Targets to Include Nuclear Power in Fossil-Free Goal by 2045

  Sweden's parliament has voted to change its energy targets from 100% renewable energy to 100% fossil fuel-free by 2045, thereby including nuclear power in its energy mix. This move comes despite a vote 40 years ago to phase out nuclear reactors, a policy that was repealed in 2010. The government elected last year is promoting nuclear power as part of its strategy to meet the country's carbon neutrality target by 2045. The change in policy has been criticized by environmental campaigners who argue it contradicts Sweden's reputation as a green leader. Despite this, the state-owned utility Vattenfall plans to build at least two small modular reactors and extend the life of existing nuclear reactors. (Source)

• AI Adoption: Boldness and Innovation Over Replacement

  Companies are integrating AI into their operations at such a rapid pace that job losses may occur before the benefits of AI are fully realized. This is particularly true for white-collar workers who may be vulnerable in the short term. However, this rapid adoption also presents an opportunity for companies to innovate and create new value. Companies that merely use AI to automate tasks and cut costs may miss out on the potential for substantial value creation and a defensible future niche. Two key drivers for successful AI innovation are a bias for boldness and a startup mentality. Boldness involves embracing risk and daring, while a startup mentality involves flexibility, a commitment to big achievement, and a readiness to dispense with existing structures and biases. Companies that adopt these drivers can position themselves to thrive in the long run and help mitigate the risk of short-term job displacement due to AI. (Source)

• Work Hours Across Europe: A Comparative Study

  The average working hours per week in Europe vary significantly from country to country. According to Eurostat, the EU's official statistics office, the average working hours across Europe ranged from 32.4 hours in the Netherlands to 39.7 hours in Greece and Romania in 2022. This includes both full-time and part-time workers aged 20-64 years. Countries with higher part-time workers reported shorter average workweeks. The average working hours for full-time employment ranged from 37.4 hours in Finland to 41.3 hours across all EU countries. For part-time employment, the average working week varied from 17.8 hours in Portugal to 27 hours in Romania. The study also revealed considerable gender differences in average working weeks across European countries, with male workers having longer average working weeks than female workers in all countries in 2022. The most significant gender difference was in the Netherlands, with a gap of 8.5 hours. (Source)

• Microsoft Achieves Milestone in Quantum Computing

  Microsoft Quantum researchers have reportedly achieved a significant milestone towards creating a reliable and practical quantum computer. They have engineered a new way to represent a logical qubit with hardware stability, using a device that can induce a phase of matter characterized by Majorana zero modes, a type of fermion. The device has demonstrated low enough disorder to pass the topological gap protocol, proving the technology's viability. Microsoft believes this represents a first step towards creating a quantum supercomputer. The company has also introduced a new measure to gauge the performance of a quantum supercomputer: reliable quantum operations per second (rQOPS). They suggest that for a machine to qualify as a quantum supercomputer, its rQOPS needs to be at least 1 million. They note that such machines could reach a billion rQOPS, making them truly useful. (Source)

• Equals' Seed Round Success: A Guide for Startups

  Equals, a startup founded by two former Intercom employees, has shared the pitch deck they used to raise their seed round. The founders often receive requests from other entrepreneurs for advice on fundraising, prompting them to release their deck to help others. They emphasize the importance of keeping the pitch simple, focusing on the problem, the product, and the team. They distilled the problem they were addressing to two root causes and used real-life examples to underscore its depth. They explained their product vision using comparisons with other successful software tools and outlined a roadmap for their minimum viable product (MVP). The founders highlighted their track record of working together and their expertise in leading teams and building a business. After a week of practicing and refining the pitch, they sought to raise $4M but ended up raising over $6M from early operators and investors in Silicon Valley. (Source)

• Twitter Thread - work on AI Agents

  The tweet by user "swyx.goodenough" is a comment on a statement made by Andrej Karpathy, Director of AI at Tesla, encouraging people to work on AI agents. The tweet includes a quote tweet from a conversation where a user asks about a book recommendation made by Karpathy. The thread also includes a discussion about a recent AGI House hackathon on AI agents, with a user sharing slides on open-ended agent learning. The conversation further extends to the launch of Semantic Life Corporation and a request for full video coverage of the hackathon talks. The tweet thread reflects the enthusiasm and interest in the development and application of AI agents. (Source)

• Europe's Inflation and the Role of Corporate Profits and Wage Gains

  Rising corporate profits account for nearly half of Europe's inflation increase over the past two years, as companies have raised prices more than the rising costs of imported energy. As workers now seek pay rises to recover lost purchasing power, companies may have to accept a smaller profit share for inflation to reach the European Central Bank's 2% target by 2025. Inflation in the euro area peaked at 10.6% in October 2022 due to surging import costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Although inflation has since dropped to 6.1% in May, core inflation remains persistent, pressuring the ECB to increase interest rates. The higher inflation primarily reflects higher profits and import prices, with profits accounting for 45% of price rises since the start of 2022. As energy prices surge, labor costs' contribution to inflation is expected to grow. (Source)

• Messaging App IRL Shuts Down: Admits 95% of Users Were Fake

  Messaging app startup IRL, which once reached a $1.2 billion valuation, is shutting down after admitting that 95% of its users were fake. The company, which raised over $200 million, was led by CEO Abraham Shafi and described itself as a leading group messaging social network. However, doubts about the authenticity of its claimed 20 million monthly active users surfaced last year. An investigation by the board of directors found that the majority of users were automated or bots. The company's downfall has led to discussions about the pressures of achieving 'unicorn status' and the potential for fraudulent practices in the startup ecosystem. The Securities and Exchange Commission had already begun an investigation into whether IRL violated securities laws in its portrayal of business performance to investors. (Source)

• Forced Return to Office: A Counterproductive Approach to Productivity

  In an article for Fortune, Gleb Tsipursky, CEO of Disaster Avoidance Experts, argues against the forced return to office work. He cites a study by EY-Parthenon showing five consecutive quarters of declining productivity in the U.S. and a Slack survey indicating that over two-thirds of business leaders are under pressure to increase worker productivity. Despite evidence that flexible hybrid work is more productive, executives are pushing employees back to the office. Tsipursky suggests that the office is not a productivity vending machine but a space where collaboration and mentoring thrive. He proposes structured mentoring programs in a hybrid environment that combines the best aspects of in-office and remote work. He also discusses cognitive biases, such as status quo bias and functional fixedness, that may prevent leaders from embracing flexible work. Tsipursky concludes by urging CEOs to abandon forced in-office work and embrace the flexible work revolution. (Source)

• Sweden's Ambitious Plan for a Wooden City

  Swedish firm Atrium Ljungberg has announced plans to build Stockholm Wood City, potentially the world's largest wooden city. The project, set to begin in 2025, will be constructed in Sickla, south of Stockholm, and is expected to be completed in ten years. The city will include 2,000 homes, 7,000 offices, restaurants, and shops. The use of wood is expected to reduce the project's carbon footprint by up to 40% compared to traditional concrete and steel construction. The buildings will be made from engineered timber, a composite material where layers of wood are laminated together to provide high levels of strength. Despite concerns about fire risks, modern wooden buildings are equipped with fire-protection systems, and engineered timber is considered highly fire-resistant. (Source)

• AI's Impact on Web Content: A Paradigm Shift or a Threat to Quality?

  The article discusses the transformative impact of AI on the internet, particularly in the context of content generation. AI's ability to generate vast amounts of content is reshaping the web, but not without controversy. For instance, Reddit's moderators have staged blackouts in response to the company's decision to increase charges for API access, partly due to AI firms scraping its data. Similarly, Wikipedia is grappling with the use of AI language models for article creation, given their tendency to fabricate facts and sources. Google is also experimenting with AI-generated summaries, which could potentially starve source links of traffic. The concern is that while AI can produce content at scale, the quality is often poor and the information subtly incorrect. The article concludes that the changes AI is causing are part of a long struggle over information control on the web, and the decisions made now will shape the future of the internet. (Source)

• EU Advances User Data Control Rules, Challenging Big Tech

  The European Parliament and Council of the EU have provisionally agreed on a new Data Act, aiming to regulate the use and access of consumer and corporate data within the bloc. The legislation seeks to give EU users more control over data generated from connected devices, including the ability to access and share it with third parties. The agreement includes provisions for data portability between different cloud providers, promotes interoperability standards, and allows public sector bodies to access and use data for public emergencies. However, safeguards against unlawful data transfers have been included. Companies can decline data sharing requests if they could face significant economic losses. The Data Act is part of the EU's digital transformation legislation and will need formal approval before becoming law. (Source)

• WHO to Declare Aspartame a Possible Cancer Risk

  Aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in thousands of products worldwide, is reportedly set to be declared a possible cancer risk by the World Health Organization's cancer research arm, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The IARC is preparing to label aspartame as "possibly carcinogenic to humans", indicating some evidence linking it to cancer, but that it is limited. The IARC's safety review was conducted to assess whether aspartame is a potential hazard, based on all the published evidence. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (Jecfa) has also been reviewing aspartame use this year and is due to announce its findings on the same day the IARC makes public its decision, on 14 July 2023. (Source)

• Microsoft and OpenAI Face Lawsuit Over Alleged Privacy Violations in ChatGPT

  Microsoft and OpenAI have been sued by sixteen pseudonymous individuals who claim that the companies' AI products, based on ChatGPT, collected and disclosed their personal information without adequate notice or consent. The complaint alleges that the companies systematically scraped 300 billion words from the internet, including personal information obtained without consent. The plaintiffs argue that the companies have embedded personal information of millions of people into their AI products, putting them at risk of having that information disclosed. The lawsuit seeks class-action certification and damages of $3 billion. Both Microsoft and OpenAI have declined to comment on the lawsuit. (Source)

• An Interview with Marc Andreessen about AI and How You Change the World- Stratechery

  The interview is quite extensive and covers a lot of ground, but these are some of the main points.

  Andreessen's Views on AI: He believes that AI will have a significant impact on the world. He argues that AI will be a transformative technology, much like the internet or electricity, and will touch every aspect of our lives. He also discusses the potential risks and opportunities associated with AI.

  His Essays: Andreessen is known for his thought-provoking essays on technology. He discusses three of his most influential essays: "Why Software Is Eating the World," "It’s Time to Build," and "Why AI Will Save the World." He explains the ideas behind these essays and how they relate to his views on technology and society.

  Venture Capital: Andreessen talks about the role of venture capital in the tech industry. He argues that venture capital is a disruptive force in its own right, with its services approach to venture and massive fund sizes.

  Public Intellectual: Andreessen discusses his role as a public intellectual and his efforts to explain complex technical concepts to the public. He acknowledges that his views can be controversial and that he has a responsibility to explain the implications of technology for society and the economy.

  Software and the Physical World: Andreessen maintains his belief that in the long run, the best software companies win. He uses the examples of Amazon, Apple, and Tesla to illustrate this point, arguing that despite their involvement in physical goods and logistics, their success is largely due to their software capabilities.

  Building and COVID: Andreessen reflects on his essay "It's Time to Build," which was written in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the failures of Western institutions to deal with the pandemic and the need for a greater focus on building and innovation. (Source)

• Proposal framework for a digital euro

  The European Commission has proposed establishing a legal framework for a possible digital euro that would complement existing euro banknotes and coins. The digital euro would ensure that citizens and businesses have an additional public payment option for digital payments within the euro area. While cash is still widely used, more people are choosing digital payments. A digital euro could offer a secure, cheap and resilient form of public digital money. If approved by the European Parliament and Council, it would be up to the European Central Bank to decide whether and when to issue the digital euro. The proposal also aims to safeguard the role of cash and ensure its wide acceptance across the euro area. (Source)

• European Companies Voice Concerns Over AI Regulations: Criticism of New Artificial Intelligence Act's Impact on Competitiveness

  Several major European companies have criticized the EU's new Artificial Intelligence Act, claiming it could harm Europe's competitiveness and technological progress. The letter signed by over 150 executives argues that the strict rules targeting generative AI models would impose disproportionate costs and risks, discouraging AI providers from operating in Europe. The companies called on the EU to form an expert regulatory body to monitor how the Act can adapt as AI technology advances. However, an MEP who led developing the Act countered that it provides an industry-led process and light regulatory regime focused on transparency. OpenAI had previously lobbied the EU to change the Act, though it later said it has no plans to leave Europe. (Source)

• Karnataka High Court Dismisses Twitter's Lawsuit Against Indian Government, Imposes Fine for Delayed Compliance

  The Karnataka High Court in India has dismissed Twitter's lawsuit against the Indian government challenging block orders on tweets and accounts. The court fined Twitter 5 million Indian rupees for delaying compliance to India's IT rules, despite being issued notices. The court observed that Twitter did not provide reasons for the delay of over a year in complying with the IT rules. Twitter's lawsuit alleged that the Indian government was abusing its power by arbitrarily ordering the removal of tweets. However, Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey claimed that India regularly issued requests for Twitter to remove posts and accounts, often with threats of legal action if not complied with. (Source)

Culture

• The Transformative Friendship of Tintin's Creator Hergé and Chang Chong-Ren

  The friendship between Hergé, the creator of the Adventures of Tintin comics, and Chang Chong-Ren, a Chinese student and sculptor, significantly influenced the Tintin series. They met in 1934 in Brussels, where Chang taught Hergé about Chinese calligraphy, painting techniques, and the importance of authenticity. This led to the geographical and historical accuracy that Tintin comics became known for. Chang also educated Hergé about the Japanese invasion of China, information that was included in the Tintin comic, The Blue Lotus. This comic was well-received by readers but sparked anger from the Japanese. Hergé's friendship with Chang shifted his worldview, transforming Tintin into an 'international social crusader.' Despite losing touch due to war, they reunited in 1981. Hergé passed away in 1983, but the Tintin series remains popular, with over two hundred million books sold, largely due to Chang's influence. (Source)

• The Solace of Hotel Bars: A Refuge for the Hard of Hearing

  In an article for The New York Times, author John Cotter discusses his preference for hotel bars as a place for meaningful conversation, particularly due to his hearing loss caused by Ménière’s disease. Cotter appreciates the quiet, intimate environment of hotel bars, which allows him to connect with friends and discuss personal matters without the distraction of loud music or crowd noise. He describes hotel bars as the "mudrooms of the city," transient spaces where a variety of people briefly pass through. Cotter expresses concern about the trend towards louder, more stylish bars and restaurants, which prioritize aesthetics over comfort and audibility. He cherishes hotel bars as places where one can be honest, engage in deep conversation, and find a sense of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. (Source)

• Ernst Jünger: A Complicated Legacy of Literature and Complicity

  The New Yorker article delves into the life and works of Ernst Jünger, a controversial figure in 20th-century German literature. Jünger, a decorated WWI veteran, lived through both World Wars, the Weimar Republic, and the Nazi regime, dying in 1998 at 102. His writings, including war diaries and far-right political tracts, have influenced various political ideologies. Despite his controversial views, Jünger's works are still read and debated today.

  The article discusses Jünger's 1939 novel, "On the Marble Cliffs," recently translated by Tess Lewis. The novel is a parable of rising barbarism and an indirect protest against Nazism. Jünger's writings often depict ambivalent functionaries and complicit observers, reflecting his own morally compromised position. His narratives lack women and sex, and he rarely admits his mistakes, often adjusting his positions to fit the political climate.

  The article also discusses Jünger's fascination with war and his belief in its higher meaning. His writings often glorify war and violence, presenting them as necessary for the development of national culture and the creation of supermen. Despite his alignment with fascist ideologies, Jünger distanced himself from the Nazi party, viewing them as vulgar and useful only as a means to assault democracy.

  The article concludes by examining Jünger's later works, which shift towards literature and include a mix of nature sketches, literary meditations, and dream narratives. Despite his controversial legacy, Jünger's works continue to be studied and debated for their insights into the human condition and the societal compromises of his time. (Source)

• The Art of Stealing Masterpieces: Insights from the World's Greatest Art Thief

  Stéphane Breitwieser, one of the greatest art thieves of all time, shares insights into his craft in a New York Times article. Breitwieser, who stole over 300 artworks worth an estimated $2 billion from European museums and cathedrals, advises that art theft is best accomplished subtly, without violence or destruction. He suggests arriving during lunch hours when crowds are thinner, dressing sharply to blend in, and choosing a smaller, less monitored gallery. The targeted artwork should be small and aesthetically attractive to the thief. Breitwieser also shares his method of removing artworks from display cases or frames using a Swiss Army knife. However, he warns against trying to sell stolen pieces, as this is how most art thieves get caught. Instead, he suggests viewing art theft as liberating masterpieces from crowded confines. (Source)

• The Untaught Art of Acquiring Knowledge: A Deep Dive into Learning

  The article discusses the fundamental principles of how the human brain acquires knowledge, and critiques the traditional educational system for its failure to teach these principles effectively. It emphasizes the importance of pleasure in learning, stating that learning should trigger the brain's reward system. The article also introduces the concept of spaced repetition, which suggests that repeated exposure to a concept over time is essential for retention. It further discusses the importance of mastering the basic building blocks of a skill before moving to more complex aspects, and the concept of time investment in skill mastery. The article also highlights the importance of applying theoretical knowledge in real-life situations to validate its usefulness and effectiveness. Lastly, it underscores the value of teaching as a tool for reinforcing one's own understanding of a concept. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of learning and adaptability in the success of startups and individual careers. (Source)

• Le Corbusier's Legacy: A Century of Influence and Controversy

  he article from The Guardian discusses the legacy of Le Corbusier, a Swiss-born French architect and painter, on the 100th anniversary of his influential book "Vers Une Architecture". The book is a manifesto for modernism, advocating for the application of the beauty and logic of machines and engineering to the design of buildings. Le Corbusier is compared to Picasso in his transformative influence on his discipline. However, his ideas have also been criticized for inspiring inhumane tower blocks and concrete jungles.

  Le Corbusier's work, including private houses in Paris, the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, and the administrative buildings of Chandigarh in India, often contradicted the ideas of "Vers Une Architecture", but still embodied its definition of architecture as the “magnificent play of volumes brought together in light”. The article includes reflections from various architects on Le Corbusier's influence and relevance today. Some admire his creative play of forms and spaces, while others criticize his city plans as overly rigid and his writings as over-hortatory. Despite the criticisms, many agree that his buildings have a powerful, often spiritual, impact. (Source)

• The Power of Writing: Sorting Thoughts, Increasing Audience, and Improving Research

  In an article titled "Why Write?", Bastian Rieck discusses the importance of writing, particularly in the academic context. He argues that writing is a skill that improves with practice and provides three reasons why writing is beneficial. Firstly, writing helps sort out thoughts in a concise manner, forcing a clear understanding of one's work. Secondly, good writing can increase the audience for academic research, attracting readers from different disciplines. Lastly, writing with an underlying narrative can enhance the quality of research, making it more compelling and easier to understand. Rieck encourages readers to read and write more to improve their writing skills. (Source)

• UK's CMA Expresses Concern Over Adobe's Acquisition of Figma

  The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has raised concerns over Adobe's proposed acquisition of Figma, a leading provider of screen design and whiteboarding tools. The CMA's initial investigation suggests that the $20 billion deal could reduce innovation and competition in the supply of screen design software, where both companies are major players. The CMA also expressed concerns about the provision of creative design software, where Adobe is dominant. The CMA fears that the acquisition could lead to higher costs and less innovative products for businesses that rely on these tools. Adobe has five working days to address the CMA's concerns or face a more in-depth phase 2 review. (Source)

• FTC Takes Action Against Deceptive Reviews: Proposed Rule Targets Fake Testimonials and Enhances Enforcement

  The Federal Trade Commission proposed a new rule to prohibit deceptive practices involving fake reviews and testimonials. The proposed rule would ban businesses from writing or buying fake reviews, suppressing honest negative reviews, and paying for positive reviews. The FTC cited examples of deceptive review practices and noted the rise of generative AI that could make it easier to write fake reviews. If finalized, the rule would allow the FTC to seek civil penalties against violators to strengthen deterrence and enforcement actions. The FTC is seeking public comments on the proposed rule to help inform its decision on whether to issue a final rule. (Source)

• Facial Recognition in U.K. Retail: Balancing Theft Prevention with Privacy Concerns

  Facial recognition technology is increasingly being used by retailers in the U.K. to identify and prevent shoplifters. Companies like Facewatch provide facial recognition software and a shared watchlist of known shoplifters to over 400 stores. While this has helped reduce theft, there are concerns about privacy and the potential for misidentification of innocent customers. The U.K. privacy regulator approved Facewatch's system after it made policy changes to reduce the amount of data collected and focus alerts on repeat offenders. However, mistakes still happen and critics argue that facial recognition is a disproportionate solution for minor crimes. Retailers counter that theft has gotten so high that facial recognition is necessary to remain profitable. (Source)

• Supreme Court strikes down President Biden’s student loan forgiveness program

  The U.S. Supreme Court issued opinion on the case "22-506 Biden v. Nebraska" decided on June 30, 2023. The case revolves around the Secretary of Education's authority to establish a student loan forgiveness program under the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act of 2003 (HEROES Act).

  The Secretary of Education had established a comprehensive student loan forgiveness program that canceled roughly $430 billion of federal student loan balances, completely erasing the debts of 20 million borrowers and lowering the median amount owed by the other 23 million from $29,400 to $13,600. Six states challenged this plan, arguing that the HEROES Act does not authorize such a loan cancellation plan.

  The Supreme Court agreed with the states, ruling that the HEROES Act does not authorize the Secretary's loan forgiveness program. The Court held that the HEROES Act allows the Secretary to "waive or modify" existing statutory or regulatory provisions applicable to financial assistance programs under the Education Act, but does not allow the Secretary to rewrite that statute to the extent of canceling $430 billion of student loan principal. (Source)

• Reddit's API Changes Ignite Debate Over Internet Labor and AI

  Reddit's decision to charge for access to its API has sparked controversy and a user revolt. The move is expected to impact third-party developers who create apps for the platform, with several popular apps announcing closures due to the new fees. Reddit CEO Steve Huffman stated that the change is intended to make companies using Reddit's data for AI training pay for access. However, the decision has also affected the platform's community, with nearly 9,000 subreddits going private in protest. Critics argue that the move commodifies user-generated content and highlights the often-unrecognized labor that internet users provide to tech companies. The situation has sparked a broader discussion about the value of online contributions and the ethics of using such data for AI development. (Source)

• Supreme Court Ends Affirmative Action in College Admissions, Ruling Alters Admissions Landscape

  The Supreme Court ruled that colleges can no longer consider race as a factor in admissions, striking down affirmative action policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina. The 6-3 ruling overturned decades of precedent and will force colleges to reshape their admissions practices. President Biden disagreed with the ruling and urged colleges to find other ways to achieve diversity. Colleges said eliminating race as a factor will make it harder to achieve diverse student bodies that reflect America. The ruling left out military academies, citing national security interests. (Source)

Technology/ Startups

• Understanding Embeddings: The Fundamental Building Blocks of Machine Learning

  The article by Vicki Boykis provides an in-depth exploration of embeddings, a foundational data structure in deep learning models. Boykis emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamentals of machine learning and natural language processing, particularly in relation to recommendation systems. She likens the process of mastering machine learning to Picasso's journey in mastering art, where understanding and mastering the basics is crucial before creating more complex works. The article is aimed at a generalist audience, including engineers, product managers, students, and anyone interested in learning more about the fundamentals of machine learning. Boykis also provides a PDF on her site for further reading and understanding of embeddings. (Source)

• LLM Powered Autonomous Agents

  The blog post titled "LLM Powered Autonomous Agents" discusses the concept of building agents with a large language model (LLM) as its core controller. The author provides an overview of an LLM-powered autonomous agent system and discusses its key components, which include planning, memory, and tool use.

  In the planning component, the agent breaks down large tasks into smaller, manageable subgoals and can self-reflect on past actions to improve future steps. The memory component includes short-term memory, which is used for in-context learning, and long-term memory, which allows the agent to retain and recall information over extended periods.

  The tool use component enables the agent to call external APIs for extra information that is missing from the model weights. This can include current information, code execution capability, and access to proprietary information sources.

  The author also discusses various techniques and frameworks for enhancing model performance on complex tasks, such as Chain of Thought (CoT), Tree of Thoughts, and LLM+P. These techniques involve decomposing tasks into smaller steps, exploring multiple reasoning possibilities, and outsourcing planning steps to an external tool.

  The post also covers the concept of memory in human brains and how it can be mapped to the functions of an LLM. It discusses different types of memory, such as sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory, and how they correspond to learning embedding representations for raw inputs, in-context learning, and the use of an external vector store for fast retrieval, respectively.

  Finally, the author discusses the use of tools in LLMs, providing examples of various frameworks and benchmarks for evaluating the performance of tool-augmented LLMs. These include MRKL, TALM, Toolformer, HuggingGPT, and API-Bank. The author concludes by providing case studies of LLM-empowered agents for scientific discovery. (Source)

• HN Discussion thread on Startup Incorporation Locations: Delaware vs Dubai

  A discussion on Hacker News explores why startups, particularly those from India, prefer to incorporate in Delaware over Dubai or Singapore. Several reasons are proposed:

  Investor Preference: American venture capitalists (VCs) are more comfortable investing in US-incorporated companies. Delaware's established legal infrastructure and case law provide a reliable environment that protects investors.

  Sales and Trust: For startups selling to US customers, a US entity can help build trust and facilitate payments.

  Legal and Regulatory Stability: Delaware's predictable business laws and ease of incorporation are attractive. In contrast, Dubai's business law is still evolving, and its long-term stability is uncertain.

  Familiarity and Access to US Banking System: Incorporating in Delaware provides access to the US banking system and is a familiar process for many startups and investors.

  Historical Precedent: Delaware has a long history as a hub for corporate governance litigation, which can minimize unknown outcomes in legal disputes.

  The discussion also highlights that the choice of incorporation location can depend on the specific circumstances and goals of the startup. (Source)

• Tesla's Charging Technology Poised to Become North American Standard

  Tesla's electric vehicle charging technology is gaining momentum and becoming a North American standard. Volvo and other automakers have embraced Tesla's charging connector, shunning earlier efforts to make the Combined Charging System the standard. SAE International aims to make Tesla's charging connector an industry standard within 6 months. This would make the chargers accessible to all companies, not just Tesla. Making Tesla's connector a standard would help build out the public charging network needed to meet the Biden administration's goal of deploying 500,000 public chargers by 2030. Tesla's charging technology, once exclusive to its vehicles, now has the potential to become the standard connector for all electric vehicles. (Source)

• Microsoft's Vision: A Fully Cloud-Based Windows

  Microsoft is planning to transition Windows fully to the cloud, building on the success of Windows 365. The company aims to stream a complete Windows operating system from the cloud to any device. This move is seen as a long-term opportunity to leverage the power of the cloud to enhance AI-powered services and provide a seamless digital experience for users. Future updates will include Windows 365 Boot, which will allow Windows 11 devices to log directly into a Cloud PC instance at boot, bypassing the local version of Windows. Microsoft's broader AI push includes the recently announced Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant for Windows 11. (Source)

• Open-Source LLMs: Democratizing AI

  Despite the dominance of tech giants like Microsoft and Google in the field of large language models (LLMs), a new wave of open-source LLMs is emerging, offering a counterbalance to proprietary AI. These models, such as Meta's LLAMA and Alpaca 7b, are accessible to anyone and can be run on home equipment. They are also being ranked and shared by various platforms, including Hugging Face's Open LLM Leaderboard and Github.

  Open-source LLMs are democratizing AI by lowering the costs and barriers to entry, allowing more researchers and developers to contribute to the field. They also enable a deeper understanding of AI models by allowing researchers to examine their inner workings, which can lead to better mitigation strategies for issues such as false or toxic responses. Furthermore, these models are proving that effective LLMs can be created with fewer resources than previously thought, and can be run on local devices like laptops and phones. (Source)

• Boba AI: A Co-Pilot for Creative Ideation

  Boba AI, an experimental co-pilot application, is designed to enhance the creative ideation process in product strategy. Utilizing OpenAI's Large Language Model (LLM), Boba generates ideas and answers questions to accelerate creative thinking. Its capabilities range from researching trends, scenario building, strategy ideation, to concept generation and storyboarding. The application structures user interaction with the LLM through a range of UI elements, enabling users to make simple prompts that the application enriches for better LLM responses. The development process of Boba AI offers insights into effective patterns for building generative co-pilot applications. (Source)

• The Emergence of AI Engineers: Bridging the Gap Between AI Research and Real-World Applications

  The rise of AI Engineers is attributed to the rapid advancements in AI, particularly in Foundation Models. These engineers are adept at utilizing AI models and tools to build real-world applications. The role is distinct from traditional data scientists and ML engineers, as AI Engineers focus on applying pre-trained models rather than training them from scratch. They are capable of turning AI advancements into products used by millions, often without requiring a PhD. The role is expected to be in high demand, with AI Engineers found in large companies, startups, and as independent developers. The AI Engineer utilizes a range of tools and models, and the field is evolving with the introduction of code generation agents that can perform engineering tasks. The AI Engineer role represents a shift in the AI industry, emphasizing practical application and product development. (Source)