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A Treadmill for the Mind
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.
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…
No one ever tells the bad guys, “This time you’ve gone exactly the right amount of far.” I mean, maybe with the right feedback…
Pack your own parachute, Roll your own rig. If you want to make a Newton, Bring your own fig.
We have a lot of Fake News; It’s the worst. If you want to share an article, READ IT FIRST.
Maybe we should re-examine our trope that kids today are such ‘snowflakes’ that they cry when asked difficult questions in job interviews.
Maybe we should re-examine our trope that kids today are so entitled that they think they can get away with anything and write about it in public places.
Really appreciate the great, quick updates with excellent release notes from @joec and his app RECaf.
No, not everyone is Ernest Hemingway, but imagine for a moment a world where the majority of people had access and encouragement to craft their thoughts into blog posts. I used to scoff at “everyone’s a blogger” but now I hope for it.
