But goodness, is it difficult to get many editors interested in books that aren’t somehow implicated in (or can somehow be shoehorned into) the American crisis discourse.
The “American crisis discourse” is real and I think I’m infected: I often come across ideas and wonder where they fit into our crises. There is a difference between “how does this idea apply to now” and “how does this idea fit into the current outrage discourse.”
As a long time user and admirer of Apple’s products, I find myself in a new situation: I am not only unenthusiastic about the anticipated virtual reality headset – I’m against the whole idea. The headset sure seems like a step in the wrong direction for a company that recently has been so focused on health. In what way does a VR headset contribute to health? Mental, physical, social, whatever?
Steve Jobs was famous for using the analogy of the bicycle. Like a bicycle, a computer can enhance the natural power of a human. It’s like a bicycle for the mind. I’ve used my iPhone to help me find my destination. I’ve used my Apple Watch to help me train for athletic competitions. Bicycles.
Maybe I have poor imagination, but I can’t see a VR headset enhancing my natural power. Only tricking it. Sure, I can attend a more visceral virtual meeting. Maybe the attendees will even have legs. But it’s still a virtual meeting. Something that feels more real isn’t actually more real or healthy.
In that way, a VR headset feels more like a treadmill. You can move a lot, but never go anywhere.
It’s a treadmill for the mind.
Chassahowitzka River
In agreement with my 2023 goal of doing work that cannot be replaced by AI.
Whether you’re into AI or not, it’s worth spending some time honoring what is not machine-like in you.
And if you’re going to spend time with machines, be sure to spend time with machines that make you feel more human.
I know there are bookmarklets, but I’d love a Safari extension that put micropub actions onto a button…
Myakka
Preservice Music at Christmas Eve
