Guest Thinkers — January 4, 2011

100,000 Dead Fish: Take the Quiz

Lindsay Beyerstein

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

This simple quiz neatly divides the world into two kinds of people.

A hundred thousand unexplained dead fish is a job for: a) theology; or, b) ichthyology.

[Photo credit: psyberartist, Creative Commons.]

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A person in a red shirt stands next to "Waves in an Impossible Sea," the 2024 science book by Matt Strassler. The background displays a blurred bookshelf.

Starts With A Bang

“Waves in an Impossible Sea”: The 2024 science book of the year

Matt Strassler’s journey into fundamental physics culminates in a brilliant explanation of the Higgs field. Enjoy this exclusive interview.

A person holds a smartphone and a book with an ornate cover, clasped together in both hands.

The Present

Silicon Valley’s obsession with AI looks a lot like religion

The tech world’s fixation on artificial intelligence has spawned beliefs and rituals that resemble religion — complete with digital deities, moral codes, and threats of damnation.

A painting on an easel at the entrance of Plato's cave overlooks misty mountains, with a small fire flickering nearby.

Thinking

Plato’s cave and the stubborn persistence of ignorance

Plato’s cave metaphor illustrates the cognitive trap of ignorance, where we may be unaware of the limitations of our understanding.

A vintage-style illustration of a winged figure falling through the sky, set against a textured red background, surrounded by intricate black and white abstract patterns.

Thinking

Everyday Philosophy: “Are scientists involved in a Satanic plot to undermine religion?”

How many scientists does it take to ruin a good conspiracy?

The Present

Microplastic overload: Is cutting production the only realistic way to curb pollution?

On November 25, U.N. members will meet in South Korea to cap off a series of meetings aiming to reduce global plastic pollution.

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