Category Archives: science

No Maps of Hell

Posted on February 19, 2025 by JE

Saw the article below on Bluesky and felt the irritation that almost always accrues when scrolling through social media. But this irritation was really specific. Demanding a historically accurate version of a myth is like trying to find the zip … Continue reading →

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Eldritch Lore of Lightning, Stars, and Magic

Posted on August 10, 2023 by JE

On Facebook, Michael Swanwick mentioned a historical (or maybe apocryphal) episode when the Pope invited Etruscan seers to use lightning magic to defend Rome against Alaric and his Ostrogoths. It’s a pretty good story, whether or not it’s actually history. … Continue reading →

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A Stiff Dose of Truth

Posted on June 26, 2023 by JE

I can’t positively recommend reading this excellent article (a collaboration between Pro Publica and The New Yorker). It’s full of excruciating medical detail. But if you’re hardy enough to do so, there’s a lot of food for thought. A thought: … Continue reading →

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Facts About Fiction

Posted on June 22, 2023 by JE

Studies show that most studies don’t show what they show. Still, this is an interesting and well-sourced piece about the connections between reading and empathy. https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/reading-fiction-empathy-better-person/

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Is this SALAMI Intelligent?

Posted on April 12, 2023 by JE

This is not exactly new, but it’s always fun to watch Cory Doctorow sticking a pin in the AI-hype bubble. I especially enjoyed the proposal of an Italian ex-M.P. to rename AI as “Systematic Approaches to Learning Algorithms and Machine … Continue reading →

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Alpha Ralpha Woulevard

Posted on March 26, 2023 by JE

Alpha wolf, schmalpha wolf. Time to slay that zombie idea. https://www.newyorker.com/science/elements/the-myth-of-the-alpha-wolf

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