Climbing Black Mountain
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Hidden Order: The Economics of Everyday Life
An excellent book covering what's essentially "Economics 101" for non-economists or for people who skipped that class in college (or high school). It unfortunately doesn't cover some of the complexities that are in typical economics textbooks (such as network externalities and increasing returns to scale), but given the limited space, that's understandable.
Recommended if you're not already an economics junkie.
An excellent book covering what's essentially "Economics 101" for non-economists or for people who skipped that class in college (or high school). It unfortunately doesn't cover some of the complexities that are in typical economics textbooks (such as network externalities and increasing returns to scale), but given the limited space, that's understandable.
Recommended if you're not already an economics junkie.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
The Talent Myth
Gladwell came to give a talk at Google, which prompted me to mine his web-site for more good stuff. The Talent Myth is great reading, and has a lot of very good lessons for smart people, who tend to overvalue smartness.
Gladwell came to give a talk at Google, which prompted me to mine his web-site for more good stuff. The Talent Myth is great reading, and has a lot of very good lessons for smart people, who tend to overvalue smartness.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Monday, October 24, 2005
Republicans are Evil, part III
Well, the U.S. government has to get money from somewhere. As a two-term former Republican senator from Florida, where do you suggest we get money from?
What money?
The money to run this country.
We'll borrow it.
<>I never understand where all this money comes from. When the president says we need another $200 billion for Katrina repairs, does he just go and borrow it from the Saudis?In a sense, we do. Maybe the Chinese.
Is that fair to our children? If we keep borrowing at this level, won't the Arabs or the Chinese eventually own this country?
I am not worried about that. We are a huge country producing enormous assets day in and day out. We have great strength, and we have always adjusted to difficulties that faced us, and we will continue to do so.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
List of 2005 Book Reviews
I've decided that it's a good idea to put links to all my book reviews in one post, for my own needs. They're not listed in any particular order, though what I've done is for series of books, to place the books in series order (i.e., the order in which they're intended to be read) Having this list will let me select books of the year (at the end of each year), and also provide a handy link off to the right so new readers can have a collection to jump to.
The best books of 2005 get special mention in their own post.
Fiction
The best books of 2005 get special mention in their own post.
Fiction
- Excession
- The John Varley Reader
- The Drawing of the Dark
- Iron Sunrise
- A Deepness in the Sky
- Year's Best Science Fiction, 22nd Annual Collection
- The Rhythm Section
- A Fire Upon The Deep
- The Time Traveller's Wife
- Idlewild
- Cavedweller
- The Golden Compass
- The Subtle Knife
- The Amber Spyglass
- The Black Company
- Shadows Linger
- The White Rose
- The Silver Spike
- Shadow Games
- Never Let Me Go
- British Walking Guide: Coast to Coast Path
- A Cost to Coast Walk
- Fantastic Voyage
- Freakonomics
- Hidden Order
- The Future of Success
- The Cheating of America
- The Search
- The Wright Exit Strategy
- Hanging out with the Dream King
- Climate Crash
- Fooled by Randomness
- Blink
- The Long Emergency
- The World Is Flat
- Why We Buy
- Collapse
- Moneyball
- Fever Pitch
- Dealers of Lightning
The John Varley Reader
John Varley's recent books have been unfortunately lightweight, though still fun to read. This collection of his short stories, however, shows off how versatile he is, and how far ahead of his time he was. Nearly every story is exciting and a good read, and you can see the themes showing up in his "8 worlds" milleu. Highly recommended!
John Varley's recent books have been unfortunately lightweight, though still fun to read. This collection of his short stories, however, shows off how versatile he is, and how far ahead of his time he was. Nearly every story is exciting and a good read, and you can see the themes showing up in his "8 worlds" milleu. Highly recommended!
Ran into Neil & Julie Hunt at the top of Black Mountain today. The hike itself took Shyam and I 1:50 minutes to the top (Neil & Julie did it in 1:30, which goes to show that the decade between Pure Software and Netflix has not slowed him down at all). Neil is the Chief Product Officer at Netflix and as the former VP of Engineering built most of the software that runs the site. He happily showed me his new toy --- a weather station at his vacation home that regularly reports the current conditions over the net to his blackberry.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
A ride to the coast
Leaving my house around 9:15am, I climbed up Robleda and Taaffe in the fog, pausing to take off my jacket at the junction at Page Mill road, where past the Moody intersection the fog lifted and crepuscular beams showered me with sunlight through the leaves. I took the climb up Page Mill road at an easy pace, enjoying the sound of the crickets and the complete lack of traffic at this early hour (a total of 4 cars passed me on the entire climb). As I climbed, the road granted me views of Silicon Valley covered by a blanket of low clouds.
At the top of Page Mill road I crossed over to Alpine road and began a fast descent, where what should have been Ocean views were obscured also by low clouds at the fog, even though it was sunny where I was. The descent into the redwoods was exhilarating as usual, with the pungent smell of trees in the air. At 84, I made the descent down to San Gregorio, a boring rolling stretch of road that did not provide much to recommend it.
At San Gregorio, I eschewed at stop at the store and turned right along Stage road, which took me up to Highway 1 where a fog shrouded descent towards Half-Moon Bay made me paranoid. I did make the turn onto Tunitas Creek road with no incident, and there was over taken by some Diablo Cyclists touring club members who passed me with vim. As the 3rd person passed me, I caught his wheel and we rode together for a bit and chatted. I learned that it was their twice a year visit to the area.
We rode together for a bit before I started feeling a bit hungry and stopped to eat and shed my jacket. As I got started again, two more Diablo club members caught me and I rode with them some more. These touring club members were incredibly strong and I had a hard time staying with them, and eventually was dropped despite climbing Tunitas Creek road at a pace I hardly ever attempt.
Near the top, the club gathered and we chatted. Tom, one of the club members, recognized me as an internet-bob member (well, OK, I started that mailing list but is no longer on it). I let the club go ahead and then descended Kings Mountain road with not a single vehicle behind me. At the bottom I made a turn onto Tripp road, visited Highway 84 before dropping down into Portola Valley. The sun was out at this point but the recent fog made it still cool, so I made good time to Alpine road and Arastedero road, before riding through Purissma and back to Robleda and home.
It was a good ride with 68 miles of riding and 6400 feet of climbing.
Leaving my house around 9:15am, I climbed up Robleda and Taaffe in the fog, pausing to take off my jacket at the junction at Page Mill road, where past the Moody intersection the fog lifted and crepuscular beams showered me with sunlight through the leaves. I took the climb up Page Mill road at an easy pace, enjoying the sound of the crickets and the complete lack of traffic at this early hour (a total of 4 cars passed me on the entire climb). As I climbed, the road granted me views of Silicon Valley covered by a blanket of low clouds.
At the top of Page Mill road I crossed over to Alpine road and began a fast descent, where what should have been Ocean views were obscured also by low clouds at the fog, even though it was sunny where I was. The descent into the redwoods was exhilarating as usual, with the pungent smell of trees in the air. At 84, I made the descent down to San Gregorio, a boring rolling stretch of road that did not provide much to recommend it.
At San Gregorio, I eschewed at stop at the store and turned right along Stage road, which took me up to Highway 1 where a fog shrouded descent towards Half-Moon Bay made me paranoid. I did make the turn onto Tunitas Creek road with no incident, and there was over taken by some Diablo Cyclists touring club members who passed me with vim. As the 3rd person passed me, I caught his wheel and we rode together for a bit and chatted. I learned that it was their twice a year visit to the area.
We rode together for a bit before I started feeling a bit hungry and stopped to eat and shed my jacket. As I got started again, two more Diablo club members caught me and I rode with them some more. These touring club members were incredibly strong and I had a hard time staying with them, and eventually was dropped despite climbing Tunitas Creek road at a pace I hardly ever attempt.
Near the top, the club gathered and we chatted. Tom, one of the club members, recognized me as an internet-bob member (well, OK, I started that mailing list but is no longer on it). I let the club go ahead and then descended Kings Mountain road with not a single vehicle behind me. At the bottom I made a turn onto Tripp road, visited Highway 84 before dropping down into Portola Valley. The sun was out at this point but the recent fog made it still cool, so I made good time to Alpine road and Arastedero road, before riding through Purissma and back to Robleda and home.
It was a good ride with 68 miles of riding and 6400 feet of climbing.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Black Mountain Hike
I hiked up Black Mountain on Sunday morning (yes, Scarlet, this is the same top of Montebello that you've ridden several times). It was a 3.5 hour round trip on foot from the base, and the views were outstanding. I had at least 80 miles of visibility, and could see all the way to San Francisco and Oakland! Well worth the trip.
I love it now that I'm in shape for hiking --- just a year or so ago, every hike would leave me worn out the rest of the day. This 9.5 mile hike left me able to read 2 books and work a bit on a new wheel.
I hiked up Black Mountain on Sunday morning (yes, Scarlet, this is the same top of Montebello that you've ridden several times). It was a 3.5 hour round trip on foot from the base, and the views were outstanding. I had at least 80 miles of visibility, and could see all the way to San Francisco and Oakland! Well worth the trip.
I love it now that I'm in shape for hiking --- just a year or so ago, every hike would leave me worn out the rest of the day. This 9.5 mile hike left me able to read 2 books and work a bit on a new wheel.
The Future of Success, by Robert Reich
This book starts out badly, pointing out things that should have been obvious to anyone who hasn't been living in a cave for the last few years. Reich points out that the winner take all society seems to have gotten more and more prevelant, and Americans seem to be running harder and harder just to stand still.
Fortunately, he gets better! He analyzes the cause of the increasing disparity between classes (the stakes are higher --- each 5% of success compared to the median draws much more proportionate income and pieces of the good life than it used to, and each 5% of failure contributes to much less money than it used to), and points out that it's simply not true that the culture of students have not gotten more selfish and materialistic. That it's not true that Americans are addicted to work and are workaholics (Americans now work even more hours than the Japanese!) --- but it's a rational reaction to the current state of affairs, where cut-throat competition amongst employees, companies, and fellow students is a result of the increased uncertainty in the marketplace --- your pay is now much more variable than before, while your expenses are still fixed, so you're compelled to work as hard as you possibly can whenever you have an opportunity.
His policy proposals are also quite reasonable: wage insurance, for instance, is an excellent idea --- if your job gets outsourced, you can half the difference between your old job and your new job, which gives you a cushion to get retrained. This is too good an idea and will never get passed while the Republicans are in charge, but I definitely consider it a solution to a major cause of bright students deciding to abandon engineering and science because of the fear that all the technical jobs are going to India and China.
Let me quote one passage that demonstrates that Robert Reich gets it, while many science and engineering educators and other smart people don't:
The stars of Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and Hollywood are coming to resemble Professional athletes who can count on no more than ten to fifteen years before losing their competitive edge. Twentysomething software engineers are in great demand; when they're over forty, they're over the hill. Surveys show that six years after graduating with a degree in computer science, 60 percent are working as software programmers; after twnety years, only 19 percent are still at it. This largely explains why high entry salaries and generous signing bonuses are still not enough to entice greater numbers of undergraduates into the field. They know how quickly they'll become obsolete
This book starts out badly, pointing out things that should have been obvious to anyone who hasn't been living in a cave for the last few years. Reich points out that the winner take all society seems to have gotten more and more prevelant, and Americans seem to be running harder and harder just to stand still.
Fortunately, he gets better! He analyzes the cause of the increasing disparity between classes (the stakes are higher --- each 5% of success compared to the median draws much more proportionate income and pieces of the good life than it used to, and each 5% of failure contributes to much less money than it used to), and points out that it's simply not true that the culture of students have not gotten more selfish and materialistic. That it's not true that Americans are addicted to work and are workaholics (Americans now work even more hours than the Japanese!) --- but it's a rational reaction to the current state of affairs, where cut-throat competition amongst employees, companies, and fellow students is a result of the increased uncertainty in the marketplace --- your pay is now much more variable than before, while your expenses are still fixed, so you're compelled to work as hard as you possibly can whenever you have an opportunity.
His policy proposals are also quite reasonable: wage insurance, for instance, is an excellent idea --- if your job gets outsourced, you can half the difference between your old job and your new job, which gives you a cushion to get retrained. This is too good an idea and will never get passed while the Republicans are in charge, but I definitely consider it a solution to a major cause of bright students deciding to abandon engineering and science because of the fear that all the technical jobs are going to India and China.
Let me quote one passage that demonstrates that Robert Reich gets it, while many science and engineering educators and other smart people don't:
The stars of Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and Hollywood are coming to resemble Professional athletes who can count on no more than ten to fifteen years before losing their competitive edge. Twentysomething software engineers are in great demand; when they're over forty, they're over the hill. Surveys show that six years after graduating with a degree in computer science, 60 percent are working as software programmers; after twnety years, only 19 percent are still at it. This largely explains why high entry salaries and generous signing bonuses are still not enough to entice greater numbers of undergraduates into the field. They know how quickly they'll become obsolete
The Drawing of the Dark, by Tim Powers
I first tried to read The Anubis Gates in high school, and didn't get very far. However, 5 years ago, I found a copy of The Stress of Her Regard at the Santa Clara County Library and found it to be an incredibly good read, combining some of my favorite themes into a nice historical fantasy package.
The Drawing of the Dark, sad to say, does not rise to the heights of The Stress of Her Regard. It's light hearted, easy going, and one can guess the identity of the protagonist long before he is unveiled for the reader (or even to himself). It breaks no new ground, and is light entertainment for about 2 or 3 hours. Recommended when you don't want to use your brain too much.
"How old are you, Brian? You ought to nkow by now that something always breaks up love affairs unless both parties are willing to compromise themselves. And that compromising is harder to do the older and less flexible and more independent you are. It just isn't in you, Brian. You could no more get married now than you could become a priest, or a sculptor, or a greengrocer."
I first tried to read The Anubis Gates in high school, and didn't get very far. However, 5 years ago, I found a copy of The Stress of Her Regard at the Santa Clara County Library and found it to be an incredibly good read, combining some of my favorite themes into a nice historical fantasy package.
The Drawing of the Dark, sad to say, does not rise to the heights of The Stress of Her Regard. It's light hearted, easy going, and one can guess the identity of the protagonist long before he is unveiled for the reader (or even to himself). It breaks no new ground, and is light entertainment for about 2 or 3 hours. Recommended when you don't want to use your brain too much.
"How old are you, Brian? You ought to nkow by now that something always breaks up love affairs unless both parties are willing to compromise themselves. And that compromising is harder to do the older and less flexible and more independent you are. It just isn't in you, Brian. You could no more get married now than you could become a priest, or a sculptor, or a greengrocer."
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Iron Sunrise, Charles Stross
Stross is an excellent plotter, but with not much of a voice. For the first 6 chapters or so I thought I was reading something by Stephen Baxter. The characters aren't great, but the concepts are brilliant, and of course, the little nods towards Computer Scientists. He ends the novel with room for a sequel which would not be unwelcomed.
The UNI headquarters campus hadn't changed visibly in Rachel's absence---the same neoclassical glass-and-steel skyscraper, looming over old Geneva's stone arteries and quaint domes, the same big statues of founds Otto Von Bismarck and Tim Berners-Lee sitting out front in the plaza...
Stross is an excellent plotter, but with not much of a voice. For the first 6 chapters or so I thought I was reading something by Stephen Baxter. The characters aren't great, but the concepts are brilliant, and of course, the little nods towards Computer Scientists. He ends the novel with room for a sequel which would not be unwelcomed.
The UNI headquarters campus hadn't changed visibly in Rachel's absence---the same neoclassical glass-and-steel skyscraper, looming over old Geneva's stone arteries and quaint domes, the same big statues of founds Otto Von Bismarck and Tim Berners-Lee sitting out front in the plaza...
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Piaw's Home Page Revived
It's quite a bit worse for wear, unfortunately, old pictures are no longer up --- I have to dig through some old Kodak CDs to recover some of that stuff), and of course, it's several years out of date. It did have quite a bit of interesting content, though, so I'll keep it up for a bit, and will eventually use it as a hub for more travel stories and other ideas that the blog format doesn't work well on.
It's quite a bit worse for wear, unfortunately, old pictures are no longer up --- I have to dig through some old Kodak CDs to recover some of that stuff), and of course, it's several years out of date. It did have quite a bit of interesting content, though, so I'll keep it up for a bit, and will eventually use it as a hub for more travel stories and other ideas that the blog format doesn't work well on.
Buffy the Soundtrack
An surprisingly good soundtrack. I do remember that some of Buffy's episodes had live bands that were quite good and thought I'd get a chance to hear some of the songs all the way through. I was right. Impressive tracks include:
An surprisingly good soundtrack. I do remember that some of Buffy's episodes had live bands that were quite good and thought I'd get a chance to hear some of the songs all the way through. I was right. Impressive tracks include:
- Lucky - Bif Naked
- Virgin State Of Mind - K's Choice
- Already Met You - Superfine
- Nothing But You - Kim Ferron
- It Doesn't Matter - Alison Krauss & Union Station
- Wild Horses - The Sundays
- Pain (Slayer Mix) - Four Star Mary
- Charge - Splendid
- Close Your Eyes (Buffy/Angel Love Theme) - Christophe Beck
Monday, October 10, 2005
A bit of Cycling History
John Wilckonson is running a multi-part series about Greg Lemond over at VeloNews. It's an excellent series, and very much worth reading:
- The exceptionally gifted LeMond
- LeMond's first rainbow jersey
- The closest fought end of season in history
- An Epic Lombardy
- Anglos take aim at the Tour podium
- When Lemond reached the Tour podium
- LeMond, Hinault and the Tapie connection
- The Dramatic '85 Tour de France
- The Real Story between Hinault and Lemond
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Now I feel really cool...
My picture with Neil Gaiman shows up on his blog. Now if I can get everyone to link to my blog, I will finally be able to displace the Professional Insuance Agents of Wisconsin on a google search for Piaw.
My picture with Neil Gaiman shows up on his blog. Now if I can get everyone to link to my blog, I will finally be able to displace the Professional Insuance Agents of Wisconsin on a google search for Piaw.
A Deepness In The Sky
The prequel to A Fire Upon The Deep. This time, the aliens aren't as beautifully imaginative or interesting, but the human characters are much better, as are the (very human) villains. The ending wraps up a little too pat, with everyone paired off, but there are Shakespeare plays that do that too, so I suppose it's in the grand tradition of story-tellers.
The prequel to A Fire Upon The Deep. This time, the aliens aren't as beautifully imaginative or interesting, but the human characters are much better, as are the (very human) villains. The ending wraps up a little too pat, with everyone paired off, but there are Shakespeare plays that do that too, so I suppose it's in the grand tradition of story-tellers.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Orson Scott Card raves about Serenity
I'm not sure Joss Wheldon would make a good Ender's Game, however. Maybe if Card was willing to have Ender be a girl, Wheldon would do a great job.
I'm not sure Joss Wheldon would make a good Ender's Game, however. Maybe if Card was willing to have Ender be a girl, Wheldon would do a great job.
Monday, October 03, 2005
Religious Socities are worse off
Many liberal Christians and believers of other faiths hold that religious belief is socially beneficial, believing that it helps to lower rates of violent crime, murder, suicide, sexual promiscuity and abortion. The benefits of religious belief to a society have been described as its “spiritual capital”. But the study claims that the devotion of many in the US may actually contribute to its ills.
The paper, published in the Journal of Religion and Society, a US academic journal, reports: “Many Americans agree that their churchgoing nation is an exceptional, God-blessed, shining city on the hill that stands as an impressive example for an increasingly sceptical world.
“In general, higher rates of belief in and worship of a creator correlate with higher rates of homicide, juvenile and early adult mortality, STD infection rates, teen pregnancy and abortion in the prosperous democracies.
Many liberal Christians and believers of other faiths hold that religious belief is socially beneficial, believing that it helps to lower rates of violent crime, murder, suicide, sexual promiscuity and abortion. The benefits of religious belief to a society have been described as its “spiritual capital”. But the study claims that the devotion of many in the US may actually contribute to its ills.
The paper, published in the Journal of Religion and Society, a US academic journal, reports: “Many Americans agree that their churchgoing nation is an exceptional, God-blessed, shining city on the hill that stands as an impressive example for an increasingly sceptical world.
“In general, higher rates of belief in and worship of a creator correlate with higher rates of homicide, juvenile and early adult mortality, STD infection rates, teen pregnancy and abortion in the prosperous democracies.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Adam's Curse, by Bryan Sykes
Sykes is a rare bird: an accomplished scientist who can write for the layman. He describes results of recent research into the history and future of the Y chromosome, which is special: unlike the other chromosomes in the body, it does not get to participate in recombination, thereby it is the chromosome that accumulates errors and is now excessively specialized. The book is an exciting read, and a real pleasure --- easily one of the best science books of the year for me. His description is clear even for someone who's not a geneticist.
If the book has a fault, it is that he claims that sexual selection is directly responsible for many of the ills today --- women are attracted to powerful men (or in the case of Genghis Khan, who has 16 million modern men carrying his Y chromosome, were forced into bearing the children of powerful men), and power as well as money are hereditary in most patriarchical society, thereby increasing the amount of greed and avarice and rapacious treatment of the environment. In reality, however, even if women were the only gender in the population, the desire to achieve better environments for one's offspring is just as strong in the X chromosome, which imply to me that the world would be in no better shape if only women existed. I've certainly met enough short-sighted and greedy women to realize that those traits are not entirely driven by testosterone.
If you're going to buy this book, buy the updated paperback version. I read the older hardcover, but it should be the same material.
Sykes is a rare bird: an accomplished scientist who can write for the layman. He describes results of recent research into the history and future of the Y chromosome, which is special: unlike the other chromosomes in the body, it does not get to participate in recombination, thereby it is the chromosome that accumulates errors and is now excessively specialized. The book is an exciting read, and a real pleasure --- easily one of the best science books of the year for me. His description is clear even for someone who's not a geneticist.
If the book has a fault, it is that he claims that sexual selection is directly responsible for many of the ills today --- women are attracted to powerful men (or in the case of Genghis Khan, who has 16 million modern men carrying his Y chromosome, were forced into bearing the children of powerful men), and power as well as money are hereditary in most patriarchical society, thereby increasing the amount of greed and avarice and rapacious treatment of the environment. In reality, however, even if women were the only gender in the population, the desire to achieve better environments for one's offspring is just as strong in the X chromosome, which imply to me that the world would be in no better shape if only women existed. I've certainly met enough short-sighted and greedy women to realize that those traits are not entirely driven by testosterone.
If you're going to buy this book, buy the updated paperback version. I read the older hardcover, but it should be the same material.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
| Advanced You scored 92% Beginner, 92% Intermediate, 100% Advanced, and 73% Expert! |
You have an extremely good understanding of beginner, intermediate, and advanced level commonly confused English words, getting at least 75% of each of these three levels' questions correct. This is an exceptional score. Remember, these are commonly confused English words, which means most people don't use them properly. You got an extremely respectable score.
|
My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
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| Link: The Commonly Confused Words Test written by shortredhead78 on Ok Cupid |
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
The Cheating of America, Charles Lewis
A so-so book about tax evasion. Rather than presenting a coherent case about tax evasion, how it happens, and what legislation went into making it possible, the book is just one series of stories after another about successful tax evasion. Sure, it makes your blood boil, but after the umpteenth story, you feel kinda defeated instead of angry.
Read Perfectly Legal instead, a much better book about the same topic.
A so-so book about tax evasion. Rather than presenting a coherent case about tax evasion, how it happens, and what legislation went into making it possible, the book is just one series of stories after another about successful tax evasion. Sure, it makes your blood boil, but after the umpteenth story, you feel kinda defeated instead of angry.
Read Perfectly Legal instead, a much better book about the same topic.
Monday, September 26, 2005
A Distant Soil 2: Ascendant, by Colleen Doran
The pace finally picks up and the story coheres. Doran steers away carefully from many adult issues, however, so the book never quite gets to the level of maturity I've seen from more seasoned writers. Again, something you should check out from the library but not buy.
The pace finally picks up and the story coheres. Doran steers away carefully from many adult issues, however, so the book never quite gets to the level of maturity I've seen from more seasoned writers. Again, something you should check out from the library but not buy.
Orbiter, Warren Ellis and Colleen Doran
A comic book that works too hard to inspire. I'm a science geek and I definitely believe that man should find a way to go to the stars. Having said that, glorifying the space shuttle is not the way to go. There are lots of other more innovative approaches (such as the Space Elevator) that deserve consideration that NASA's budget wouldn't allow if it was all spent taking care of the shuttle.
A comic book that works too hard to inspire. I'm a science geek and I definitely believe that man should find a way to go to the stars. Having said that, glorifying the space shuttle is not the way to go. There are lots of other more innovative approaches (such as the Space Elevator) that deserve consideration that NASA's budget wouldn't allow if it was all spent taking care of the shuttle.
The Search, by John Battelle
I was eager to read this book, since I joined Google just 2 years ago, when a lot of the history had already happened. (Amongst my big questions were: what happened during the experiment with traditional engineering managers?) Unfortunately, Battelle did not get that much access to Google, and hence was unable to write a complete account. Regardless, this book is worth reading, and since it is relatively short, won't take up too much of your time.
It remains for a Google old-timer to write the definitive book about Google's early history.
Eric Schmidt comes across as a man who is comfortable in his own skin. He's been a CEO or top executive for more than two decades, having been CTO at Sun, where he mad his first small fortune, then CEO of Novell, a major IT company, where he made his second. He knows when to smile, when to be gracious, when to keep quiet, and when to answer a difficult question with self-effacing acknowledgment. He brandishes subtle and humorous double entendres like a Japanese swordsman, a trait that almost offsets the superiority complex he shares with nearly every talented engineer in the Valley.
Despite these skills, one gets the impression that Eric Schmidt has yet to get entirely comfortable with his place at Google, his title as CEO notwithstanding...
I was eager to read this book, since I joined Google just 2 years ago, when a lot of the history had already happened. (Amongst my big questions were: what happened during the experiment with traditional engineering managers?) Unfortunately, Battelle did not get that much access to Google, and hence was unable to write a complete account. Regardless, this book is worth reading, and since it is relatively short, won't take up too much of your time.
It remains for a Google old-timer to write the definitive book about Google's early history.
Eric Schmidt comes across as a man who is comfortable in his own skin. He's been a CEO or top executive for more than two decades, having been CTO at Sun, where he mad his first small fortune, then CEO of Novell, a major IT company, where he made his second. He knows when to smile, when to be gracious, when to keep quiet, and when to answer a difficult question with self-effacing acknowledgment. He brandishes subtle and humorous double entendres like a Japanese swordsman, a trait that almost offsets the superiority complex he shares with nearly every talented engineer in the Valley.
Despite these skills, one gets the impression that Eric Schmidt has yet to get entirely comfortable with his place at Google, his title as CEO notwithstanding...
My 20% project makes the New York Times!
Sure, it's a short piece, and most of it quotes Hal Varian, who's much more of an expert on prediction markets than I ever will be, but WOOHOO! One would think that after 14 years in the industry, I would have gotten over something like this (after all, Mpath, HearMe, and Quake all got in the news quite a bit), but it's different when it's your personal 20% project, as opposed to something that's part of a corporate charter. (Though the Mpath will always be dear to my heart)
Sure, it's a short piece, and most of it quotes Hal Varian, who's much more of an expert on prediction markets than I ever will be, but WOOHOO! One would think that after 14 years in the industry, I would have gotten over something like this (after all, Mpath, HearMe, and Quake all got in the news quite a bit), but it's different when it's your personal 20% project, as opposed to something that's part of a corporate charter. (Though the Mpath will always be dear to my heart)
Sunday, September 25, 2005
OK, now that I've hiked half-dome, I don't have to do it again. It was crowded. The hike was long and towards the end more than a little painful. I'm still sore 24 hours later (though I'll admit I'm not in great hiking shape). It might be more fun when it's less crowded, but this hike reminded me why I always do my trips from Tuoloumne Meadows and almost never visit Yosemite Valley any more.
Friday, September 23, 2005
Patri provides more details on my 20% project
I'm so glad this 20% project was more than just me. I certainly don't have the ability to do the kind of analysis that he did, and I'm definitely happy to have someone show that the results are useful. Reminds of my TinyMUCK work, where I did a bunch of stuff for fun, but really didn't see the significance of it until much later.
I'm so glad this 20% project was more than just me. I certainly don't have the ability to do the kind of analysis that he did, and I'm definitely happy to have someone show that the results are useful. Reminds of my TinyMUCK work, where I did a bunch of stuff for fun, but really didn't see the significance of it until much later.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Now I can talk about it
Every so often I'll talk to someone who knows I work at Google. Invariably, the question will come up if they're technically savvy, "Is it true that that everyone gets 1 day a week to work on whatever they like?" I answer, "Yes." "What did you do with your time?" Unfortunately, I don't usually say much. But now I can point to this, and say, "I wrote the trading engine." (Actually, I rewrote it a couple of times before getting it right)
Every so often I'll talk to someone who knows I work at Google. Invariably, the question will come up if they're technically savvy, "Is it true that that everyone gets 1 day a week to work on whatever they like?" I answer, "Yes." "What did you do with your time?" Unfortunately, I don't usually say much. But now I can point to this, and say, "I wrote the trading engine." (Actually, I rewrote it a couple of times before getting it right)
Monday, September 19, 2005
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Year's Best Science Fiction, 22nd Annual Collection
Ever since I let my subscription to Asimov's Science Fiction lapse, I've found the Year's Best Collections worth reading, if not buying. (I still check it out from the local library) This collection's best stories are:
Ever since I let my subscription to Asimov's Science Fiction lapse, I've found the Year's Best Collections worth reading, if not buying. (I still check it out from the local library) This collection's best stories are:
- "Shiva in Shadow", Nancy Kress
- "Mayflower II", Stephen Baxter
- "Inappropriate Behavior", Pat Murtphy
- "Start the Clock", Benjamin Rosenblaum
- "Skin Deep", Mary Rosenblum
- "Men Are Trouble", James Patrick Kelly
- "Investments", Walter Jon Williams
The Rhythm Section
A quick read in the "La Femme Nikita" vein, but not great enough to continue reading further books in the series. It is very readable, but then again, so are many other reads. One interesting note is that the author does mention terrorism and Osama Bin Laden in 1999, 2 years before the world trade center attacks.
A quick read in the "La Femme Nikita" vein, but not great enough to continue reading further books in the series. It is very readable, but then again, so are many other reads. One interesting note is that the author does mention terrorism and Osama Bin Laden in 1999, 2 years before the world trade center attacks.
This is why I'm taking so long to switch to digital. I took this picture in 2002, with Fuji Velvia on my 4 year old SLR. It was a picture with vertical orientation. I wanted a wallpaper for my 1900x1200 new monitor at work, so I cropped away 75% of the picture, rescaled the result by 50% (reducing the size of the result), and what's left looks pretty darn good.
The original image, as scanned by a CanoScan FS4000US was 4000x6000 pixels, or 24 megapixel. To provide a point of reference, Canon's top of the line digital SLR, the EOS-1Ds (full frame), provides 16 megapixel resolution, and costs well over $8000. Granted, scanning a slide loses you some clarify and resolution, so the numbers aren't directly comparable, but in many ways we still have a few more cycles of Moore's law before digital becomes the choice when highest quality is desired.
Friday, September 16, 2005
The Wright Exit Strategy
This is a great antidote to The Millionaire Next Door. If you recall, Millionaire Next Door is about how wealthy people got that way by clipping coupons and not spending money. The study was flawed with all sorts of the kind of errors described in Fooled by Randomness. However, even more distasteful to me was all these people with millions of dollars who spent their lives staying home, clipping coupons, and not actually doing anything with their money like travelling, enjoying hobbies, or doing anything for the greater society. In fact, most of them answered the question, "What is your favorite charity?" with the answer, "Myself."
OK, enough about the Millionaire Next Door. The Wright Exit Strategy reverses the question by asking you what your goals in life are. If you could have any calendar you want, and could fill it only with stuff you enjoyed doing, how would you fill it? From there, Wright gets into the details of how to hire the correct estate planning agent, how uncomplicated financial strategy actually is, and how to get over the barriers to being able to do what you truly want to do, whether it's the fear of selling your family business, or selling your highly appreciated company stock, or actually starting to give money away.
Note the the book does not at all describe how you should get that wealthy. Presumably, you do that with a combination of luck and business saavy. Naturally, most of the concerns he has (like dodging capital gains taxes or estate planning) really only apply to the ultra-rich (well above the $3 million you actually need to get a $100,000 a year income), but in any case, if you're the kind of person who's described by The Millionaire Next Door, you need to read this book so you can get a life and do what you really want to do.
There's a poignant story in this book about a successful condominium developer who had already made $20 million and was now having an aggravating time getting new real estate developed because everyone was getting on his case (environmentalists, etc, etc). After talking to him, Wright pointed out that this guy was really into it for the thrill of the hunt, but had never considered that he could get his thrills any other way, despite the ulcers and other bodily pain he was suffering from his job. Unfortunately, the guy died of a heart attack before Wright's advice could do any good. Read this book, Mr. Millionaire, and take notes!
(Though I'm fond of saying: Wealth is wasted on the wealthy!)
This is a great antidote to The Millionaire Next Door. If you recall, Millionaire Next Door is about how wealthy people got that way by clipping coupons and not spending money. The study was flawed with all sorts of the kind of errors described in Fooled by Randomness. However, even more distasteful to me was all these people with millions of dollars who spent their lives staying home, clipping coupons, and not actually doing anything with their money like travelling, enjoying hobbies, or doing anything for the greater society. In fact, most of them answered the question, "What is your favorite charity?" with the answer, "Myself."
OK, enough about the Millionaire Next Door. The Wright Exit Strategy reverses the question by asking you what your goals in life are. If you could have any calendar you want, and could fill it only with stuff you enjoyed doing, how would you fill it? From there, Wright gets into the details of how to hire the correct estate planning agent, how uncomplicated financial strategy actually is, and how to get over the barriers to being able to do what you truly want to do, whether it's the fear of selling your family business, or selling your highly appreciated company stock, or actually starting to give money away.
Note the the book does not at all describe how you should get that wealthy. Presumably, you do that with a combination of luck and business saavy. Naturally, most of the concerns he has (like dodging capital gains taxes or estate planning) really only apply to the ultra-rich (well above the $3 million you actually need to get a $100,000 a year income), but in any case, if you're the kind of person who's described by The Millionaire Next Door, you need to read this book so you can get a life and do what you really want to do.
There's a poignant story in this book about a successful condominium developer who had already made $20 million and was now having an aggravating time getting new real estate developed because everyone was getting on his case (environmentalists, etc, etc). After talking to him, Wright pointed out that this guy was really into it for the thrill of the hunt, but had never considered that he could get his thrills any other way, despite the ulcers and other bodily pain he was suffering from his job. Unfortunately, the guy died of a heart attack before Wright's advice could do any good. Read this book, Mr. Millionaire, and take notes!
(Though I'm fond of saying: Wealth is wasted on the wealthy!)
Castle Waiting
The best of the recent graphic novels I've read. It's a whimsical fairy tale, filled with references to your nursery rhyme stories, including the 3 little pigs, the goose that lay the golden egg, amongst others. Entertaining. Vol. 1 hasn't provided much by way of plot yet, but this volume has as much promise as the early issues of Bone.
The best of the recent graphic novels I've read. It's a whimsical fairy tale, filled with references to your nursery rhyme stories, including the 3 little pigs, the goose that lay the golden egg, amongst others. Entertaining. Vol. 1 hasn't provided much by way of plot yet, but this volume has as much promise as the early issues of Bone.
A Distant Soil
Colleen Doran started this comic when she was 13, and it shows. Now, Daniel Keys Moran started his novel series when he was 13 as well, but his characters are compelling, and his plots exciting. But Doran applied no form of filtering whatsoever to her work. The characters don't develop well, and the plot is barely comprehensible. Despite that, she won numerous awards for her work. Why? Because she was one of the leading wave of independent publishers, and probably the only woman in the field who has had any form of success.
Oh, and she draws really well. Her layouts are very pretty, and I enjoy looking at her pictures. Definitely worth my time to borrow the next two volumes from the library.
Colleen Doran started this comic when she was 13, and it shows. Now, Daniel Keys Moran started his novel series when he was 13 as well, but his characters are compelling, and his plots exciting. But Doran applied no form of filtering whatsoever to her work. The characters don't develop well, and the plot is barely comprehensible. Despite that, she won numerous awards for her work. Why? Because she was one of the leading wave of independent publishers, and probably the only woman in the field who has had any form of success.
Oh, and she draws really well. Her layouts are very pretty, and I enjoy looking at her pictures. Definitely worth my time to borrow the next two volumes from the library.
Batman: Child of Dreams
Kia Asamiya draws a Batman manga. It's not very good. Of course, he couldn't resist putting in a cute Japanese girl, but more importantly, the guy just can't draw a good Bruce Wayne. I don't normally look at guys, but isn't Bruce Wayne supposed to be a good looking guy?
Not recommended.
Kia Asamiya draws a Batman manga. It's not very good. Of course, he couldn't resist putting in a cute Japanese girl, but more importantly, the guy just can't draw a good Bruce Wayne. I don't normally look at guys, but isn't Bruce Wayne supposed to be a good looking guy?
Not recommended.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Which D&D Character Are You?
I Am A: Lawful Good Halfling Bard
Alignment:
Lawful Good characters are the epitome of all that is just and good. They believe in order and governments that work for the benefit of all, and generally do not mind doing direct work to further their beliefs.
Race:
Halflings are short and fat, like minuature people. (Think 'Hobbits') They enjoy the easy life, but aren't averse to the idea of an adventure from time to time. They get along with all races, and are known for their senses of humor. Halflings also tend to be light of foot, and can move quietly when necessary.
Primary Class:
Bards are the entertainers. They sing, dance, and play instruments to make other people happy, and, frequently, make money. They also tend to dabble in magic a bit.
Secondary Class:
Monks are strange and generally not understood by the world at large. They live apart from people, and follow strict codes that restrain their behavior and lifestyle. They have an exceptionally calm outlook on life, and generally do not resort to violence unless absolutely necessary. Even when they do, their code of conduct forbids the use of all weapons - except their hands. As such, monks are extremely skilled at hand-to-hand combat, and no other style.
Deity:
Avoreen is the Lawful Good halfling god of war, defense, and vigilance. He is also known as the Defender and the Vigilant Guardian. Followers of Avoreen are devoted to the defense of the halfling race, and spend their days drilling and preparing other halflings for the defense of their homes, if necessary. Their preferred weapon is the short sword. Avoreen's symbol is a pair of crossed short swords.
Find out What D&D Character Are You?, courtesy of
NeppyMan (e-mail)
I Am A: Lawful Good Halfling Bard
Alignment:
Lawful Good characters are the epitome of all that is just and good. They believe in order and governments that work for the benefit of all, and generally do not mind doing direct work to further their beliefs.
Race:
Halflings are short and fat, like minuature people. (Think 'Hobbits') They enjoy the easy life, but aren't averse to the idea of an adventure from time to time. They get along with all races, and are known for their senses of humor. Halflings also tend to be light of foot, and can move quietly when necessary.
Primary Class:
Bards are the entertainers. They sing, dance, and play instruments to make other people happy, and, frequently, make money. They also tend to dabble in magic a bit.
Secondary Class:
Monks are strange and generally not understood by the world at large. They live apart from people, and follow strict codes that restrain their behavior and lifestyle. They have an exceptionally calm outlook on life, and generally do not resort to violence unless absolutely necessary. Even when they do, their code of conduct forbids the use of all weapons - except their hands. As such, monks are extremely skilled at hand-to-hand combat, and no other style.
Deity:
Avoreen is the Lawful Good halfling god of war, defense, and vigilance. He is also known as the Defender and the Vigilant Guardian. Followers of Avoreen are devoted to the defense of the halfling race, and spend their days drilling and preparing other halflings for the defense of their homes, if necessary. Their preferred weapon is the short sword. Avoreen's symbol is a pair of crossed short swords.
Find out What D&D Character Are You?, courtesy of
NeppyMan (e-mail)Monday, September 12, 2005
Constantine
OK, I guess I might as well do mini movie reviews too. The best thing about the advance of Computer Graphics is that comic-book movies are now visually stunning. The worst thing is that they can't make actors better. Keenau Reeves isn't a great actor to portray John Constantine (since Constantine in the comics looks exactly like Sting), on the other hand, I didn't feel like he ruined the entire movie.
It's a good watch, especially for someone getting over an sore throat and a bad cold. All that coughing Reeves does reminds you that you're likely to get well.
OK, I guess I might as well do mini movie reviews too. The best thing about the advance of Computer Graphics is that comic-book movies are now visually stunning. The worst thing is that they can't make actors better. Keenau Reeves isn't a great actor to portray John Constantine (since Constantine in the comics looks exactly like Sting), on the other hand, I didn't feel like he ruined the entire movie.
It's a good watch, especially for someone getting over an sore throat and a bad cold. All that coughing Reeves does reminds you that you're likely to get well.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Hanging out with the Dream King: Interviews with Neil Gaiman and his collaborators
Halfway through this book I realized that I didn't really like Neil Gaiman that much as a writer. His Sandman series was excellent, and probably the most brilliant of his work, followed by a few good short novellas such as Stardust.
I found his stint on Miracleman after Alan Moore took over to be less than stellar, and he hasn't done any other comic books since.
But his novels? Good Omens left me cold, as did American Gods. Neverwhere was OK, but not ground breaking.
My conclusion is that Gaiman had a brilliant creative spurt in his career and Sandman, which spawned the Goth movement amongst other things, is definitely an outstanding achievement (though I still consider Gaiman's work a pale shadow of what Alan Moore is capable of --- and Moore is still creatively involved in comic books and shows no sign of his talent slacking off), but his novels sell only because he's made a name for himself in comics. Sure, he's better than a lot of the other dreck out there, but that doesn't say much, since Sturgeon's law applies in novels as easily as it does in Comics. The difference is that Gaiman is probably in the top 5% in comics while he's at most in the top 20% in novels.
The nature of the business, though is that novels are a lot more lucrative (and require less collaboration) than comics, so we're unlikely to see Gaiman work on any more comics, which is a pity.
Halfway through this book I realized that I didn't really like Neil Gaiman that much as a writer. His Sandman series was excellent, and probably the most brilliant of his work, followed by a few good short novellas such as Stardust.
I found his stint on Miracleman after Alan Moore took over to be less than stellar, and he hasn't done any other comic books since.
But his novels? Good Omens left me cold, as did American Gods. Neverwhere was OK, but not ground breaking.
My conclusion is that Gaiman had a brilliant creative spurt in his career and Sandman, which spawned the Goth movement amongst other things, is definitely an outstanding achievement (though I still consider Gaiman's work a pale shadow of what Alan Moore is capable of --- and Moore is still creatively involved in comic books and shows no sign of his talent slacking off), but his novels sell only because he's made a name for himself in comics. Sure, he's better than a lot of the other dreck out there, but that doesn't say much, since Sturgeon's law applies in novels as easily as it does in Comics. The difference is that Gaiman is probably in the top 5% in comics while he's at most in the top 20% in novels.
The nature of the business, though is that novels are a lot more lucrative (and require less collaboration) than comics, so we're unlikely to see Gaiman work on any more comics, which is a pity.
Astonishing X-Men: Gifted
Joss Wheldon writes the X-men. It's a decent start, but not a mind blowing entry the way Alan Moore was. Joss brings out the "high school" part of the X-men quite well, but makes a few elementary comic book mistakes (like having dialog spread over a page turn, a definite no-no) that I wouldn't expect from someone as smart as he is.
Will wait for the next installment to show up at the library before reading.
Joss Wheldon writes the X-men. It's a decent start, but not a mind blowing entry the way Alan Moore was. Joss brings out the "high school" part of the X-men quite well, but makes a few elementary comic book mistakes (like having dialog spread over a page turn, a definite no-no) that I wouldn't expect from someone as smart as he is.
Will wait for the next installment to show up at the library before reading.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Republicans are Evil Part II
Howard Dean, chairman of the DNC, sends an email:
Hurricane Katrina: How to Help: […] Many stayed behind and suffered devastating loss and injuries — nearly a hundred have died that we know of, and hundreds of thousands need our help. America is at its best when we realize that we are one community — that we’re all in this together. That means that each one of us has the responsibility to do what we can to help the relief effort. The Red Cross is a great place to start
We are still learning the full story of the devastation, but there is no time to wait. Please do something now.
Ken Mehlman, chairman of the RNC, sends an email:
When they return from their August recess, Senators will consider a key issue: elimination of the death tax.
Will you help bring tax relief to more hard-working Americans? Call Senator Voinovich today and ask them to eliminate the death tax.
Clearly George Bush and Paris Hilton are both hard-working Americans.
Howard Dean, chairman of the DNC, sends an email:
Hurricane Katrina: How to Help: […] Many stayed behind and suffered devastating loss and injuries — nearly a hundred have died that we know of, and hundreds of thousands need our help. America is at its best when we realize that we are one community — that we’re all in this together. That means that each one of us has the responsibility to do what we can to help the relief effort. The Red Cross is a great place to start
We are still learning the full story of the devastation, but there is no time to wait. Please do something now.
Ken Mehlman, chairman of the RNC, sends an email:
When they return from their August recess, Senators will consider a key issue: elimination of the death tax.
Will you help bring tax relief to more hard-working Americans? Call Senator Voinovich today and ask them to eliminate the death tax.
Clearly George Bush and Paris Hilton are both hard-working Americans.
Time up Old La Honda Road: 24:55
According to the Western Wheelers Ride Rating System, that's barely enough to qualify me as an "E" rider, but when I ride with the "Ds", I'm barely keeping up with the front group, which tells you the kind of grade deflation that's been happening in the Western Wheelers.
For your reference, Lisa & I did this 2 years ago and came in at 31 minutes on the tandem, a solid "C" pace, but on hilly rides, the same thing happens --- we barely keep up with the group.
According to the Western Wheelers Ride Rating System, that's barely enough to qualify me as an "E" rider, but when I ride with the "Ds", I'm barely keeping up with the front group, which tells you the kind of grade deflation that's been happening in the Western Wheelers.
For your reference, Lisa & I did this 2 years ago and came in at 31 minutes on the tandem, a solid "C" pace, but on hilly rides, the same thing happens --- we barely keep up with the group.
Sunday, September 04, 2005
What a great trip
When the New York Times travel section does a story about biking, it's usually by folks who charter a tour, and have someone else carry their lugguage somewhere through Europe. Clearly, this is an exception and an amazing one. They carried their own lugguage, and were on a tandem. Their experience parallels the experience Lisa & I had in South Africa in 2001, though we did ours over less rugged terrain.
When the New York Times travel section does a story about biking, it's usually by folks who charter a tour, and have someone else carry their lugguage somewhere through Europe. Clearly, this is an exception and an amazing one. They carried their own lugguage, and were on a tandem. Their experience parallels the experience Lisa & I had in South Africa in 2001, though we did ours over less rugged terrain.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
Chain replacement
My chain is worn out already on my commute bike. It took one and a half hours to remove the cranks, clean the chainrings, take a part the rear deraileurs and clean the pulleys (extremely yucky --- does anyone know why hair gets into the pulleys?), the front deraileur (the least icky part of the job), and the cogs. And then I went and put my new wheel on it just so I could make sure that I'd built it right (I did). I'll put a couple of commutes on it and then go back to my old wheel.
Mavic MA-3 rims suck. After just 2 rainy seasons of riding the eyelets are already rusted causing the click-click-click sound. (I know it's the wheel because the new wheel does not make the sound) I'm tempted to replace the rim.
My chain is worn out already on my commute bike. It took one and a half hours to remove the cranks, clean the chainrings, take a part the rear deraileurs and clean the pulleys (extremely yucky --- does anyone know why hair gets into the pulleys?), the front deraileur (the least icky part of the job), and the cogs. And then I went and put my new wheel on it just so I could make sure that I'd built it right (I did). I'll put a couple of commutes on it and then go back to my old wheel.
Mavic MA-3 rims suck. After just 2 rainy seasons of riding the eyelets are already rusted causing the click-click-click sound. (I know it's the wheel because the new wheel does not make the sound) I'm tempted to replace the rim.
The difference between Liberals and Conservative
And I'll add my own bit: Liberals believe that a society as a whole should be judged by how it treats the worst-off (unluckiest, etc) in it. Conservatives believe that a societ as a whole should be judged by the best-off (luckiest, etc) in it. Liberals believe that estate taxes are a fair and equitable way of funding government, while conservatives believe that George Bush and Paris Hilton are deserving of their wealth because they clearly did a better job of choosing their parents than most people.
And I'll add my own bit: Liberals believe that a society as a whole should be judged by how it treats the worst-off (unluckiest, etc) in it. Conservatives believe that a societ as a whole should be judged by the best-off (luckiest, etc) in it. Liberals believe that estate taxes are a fair and equitable way of funding government, while conservatives believe that George Bush and Paris Hilton are deserving of their wealth because they clearly did a better job of choosing their parents than most people.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Paul Graham makes republican mistake #1
The problem with wealthy entrepreneurs who got lucky is that they attribute their success and wealth to their skill, intelligence and risk taking ability, while a lot of their wealth actually comes from luck. But because they can't admit that (since that would be an admission that they do not deserve their wealth), they have to come up with justifications as to why the universe made them a multi-millionaire.
The problem with Paul's thesis is that I can think of many many ways you can reduce inequality without reducing risk-taking behavior. Here's an example: supposed you provide universal healthcare. A large proportion of U.S. bankruptcies are driven by medical bills due to lack of health insurance. Suddenly, anyone who wanted to start a business can do so without losing their healthcare. I'd argue that more people would start businesses and take more risks than a national policy where your healthcare is tied to your job, effectively locking you to that job if you don't have a lot of money and have one or more pre-existing conditions.
There's an obvious place to tax people if you truly believe Paul's thesis (which I don't buy into --- I've seen too many folks luck into wealth to think that wealth is in any form "deserved" by most people who make that kind of money): inter-generational transfers. In other words, we should tax inheritances heavily and severely. But of course, the Republicans we see in congress are the ones most enthusiastic about eliminating the estate tax.
The problem with wealthy entrepreneurs who got lucky is that they attribute their success and wealth to their skill, intelligence and risk taking ability, while a lot of their wealth actually comes from luck. But because they can't admit that (since that would be an admission that they do not deserve their wealth), they have to come up with justifications as to why the universe made them a multi-millionaire.
The problem with Paul's thesis is that I can think of many many ways you can reduce inequality without reducing risk-taking behavior. Here's an example: supposed you provide universal healthcare. A large proportion of U.S. bankruptcies are driven by medical bills due to lack of health insurance. Suddenly, anyone who wanted to start a business can do so without losing their healthcare. I'd argue that more people would start businesses and take more risks than a national policy where your healthcare is tied to your job, effectively locking you to that job if you don't have a lot of money and have one or more pre-existing conditions.
There's an obvious place to tax people if you truly believe Paul's thesis (which I don't buy into --- I've seen too many folks luck into wealth to think that wealth is in any form "deserved" by most people who make that kind of money): inter-generational transfers. In other words, we should tax inheritances heavily and severely. But of course, the Republicans we see in congress are the ones most enthusiastic about eliminating the estate tax.
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