Author Daniel Brian O'Leary
(Jan 30, 2023) A recent article in Wired magazine, ChatGPT, Galactica, and the Progress Trap takes aim at artificial intelligence generation tools like ChatGPT and Galactica, concluding “Although the choices of those with privilege have created these systems, for some reason it seems… Continue Reading →
5 June 2021 – On this (UN) World Environment Day, a global stock-taking is due. Most of us who analyze and fear the predicament in which progress has landed us felt certain that climate change would be the big wake-up call. But no…. Continue Reading →
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. – Shakespeare, Hamlet (1.5.167-8), March 14, 2018. The renowned physicist recently discussed his BBC* Reith Lecture1 on black holes.2 It emerged that in response to a… Continue Reading →
Escaping the progress trap, Chapter 10 – Summary: We humans are very adept at creating systems, institutions and cultures which insulate and isolate from our surroundings. While learning is one of our species’ special skills, under certain circumstances it fails. A… Continue Reading →
The progress trap?
Sticky post
This book examines the strange process of development that undermines itself, and searches for for clues in behavioral science that may explain why this happens.
It takes hardship, observation, data, and in the case of London’s 1858 cholera epidemic – a stench from the River Thames so foul that Parliament ceased functioning. The next order of business was for the members of Parliament to quickly… Continue Reading →
This small southwest Pacific island is of special interest because it appears to have achieved sustainable development. An island of 1.8 square miles and 1,200 inhabitants, it is described by Jared Diamond as being “micromanaged for continuous and sustainable food… Continue Reading →
