While I would recommend reading Player Piano and learning to code, the economic effects of automation may be over-estimated by science-fiction writers and fans of the new automated menu at McDonalds. Libertarian blogger Garry Reed suggests we consider all the possibilities and reminds us that the future has not been written. Whether or not it will be automated, the future will be written by you.
Be Different
Pragmatism Inevitably Depends on a Principled Voter Base
I’m sorry. I was not going to post any more of these libertarian political strategy diatribes. However, I had an epiphany I feel must be shared. Ultimately, no amount of pragmatic political strategy will work until there is a solid libertarian voter block that cannot be swayed. The only way to build such a base is to convert more people to libertarianism.
In order to convert people to libertarianism, you must reflect on what it took to become a libertarian yourself. The true core of libertarianism is a deep desire to learn more and share that knowledge. You are not recruiting people to a political party. You are not recruiting people to an ideology. You are recruiting people to a lifetime of learning, discovery, and developing a better understanding of how the world works and people relate to one another and how we could improve human relationships without violence. Continue reading
TANSTAAFL
While I would rather not comment on the absurdity that political discourse has become, I cannot stand by when the phrase “there ain’t no such thing as a free lunch” [TANSTAAFL] is being used to attack political opponents. The main purpose of TANSTAAFL is to remind people to think outside the box and consider the entire picture.
TANSTAAFL is used by economists to discuss opportunity costs and how there are costs associated with even products or services that are advertised as free. The term is also used by scientists when discussing biological systems and energy systems. There is even a No Free Lunch Theorem in Machine Learning Systems.
In most instances, TANSTAAFL is used to encourage people to consider the consequences of decisions and how they affect the world around them. In Machine Learning, TANSTAAFL is used to remind programmers there is no perfect system. It is a reminder to avoid developing tunnel vision and consider other possibilities.
Don’t Ignore the Angry Bees. Teach Them How to Dance.
I find Seah Johnson’s endorsement for her father refreshing. It is encouraging to see her articulate the principles that I have seen John McAfee, Judd Weiss, Vote Different, James Weeks II, Larry Sharpe and Adam Kokesh embrace. Continue reading
Vintage Tomorrows
If you’re in a post-election slump, watch Vintage Tomorrows. Steam Punk has a great underlining message: imagine a better world, make it, and explore it. Get reacquainted with technology. Don’t just use it. Make it your own. Join the Steam Punk Party.
The Real Aleppo Gaffe
This isn’t about politics. This is about cognition and the societal biases that interfere with asking questions, and learning from mistakes. Yes, Gary Johnson made an error of thought. However, asking for clarification should not be frowned upon. The gaffe was not made by Johnson but by everyone who judged him for doing what we should all strive to do: seek better understanding. Continue reading
