Why do people use Google instead of others?

title: 'Why people use Google'

People use Google instead of other search engines for several reasons, primarily its reputation for providing relevant and reliable results. Google has built a significant level of trust among users, making it synonymous with online searching, where the term “Google” itself has become a verb for searching the web[1]. Its minimalist design and user-friendly interface allow users to focus on their searches without distractions, enhancing the overall experience[2].

Moreover, Google continually updates its algorithms to improve search accuracy, processing around 20 petabytes of data daily, which contributes to users receiving precise and relevant information quickly[2]. This efficiency and consistency foster a strong preference for Google over competitors like Bing or Yahoo, which may have less straightforward functionalities and interface designs[1][2].

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What are tectonic plate boundaries?


How is AI changing the job market?

None

AI is transforming the job market in various ways, primarily through both job displacement and the creation of new opportunities. The World Economic Forum reports that nearly a quarter of all jobs (23%) globally will change in the next five years, with 69 million new jobs expected to be created alongside 83 million job eliminations, resulting in a net decrease of 14 million jobs, or 2% of current employment[3].

Certain industries, particularly those relying on routine and low-skilled labor, are more at risk. For instance, workers in the oil and gas sector may face significant job losses, as 45% of companies predict such outcomes[2]. AI is notably impacting white-collar roles, and while it increases productivity by automating routine tasks, it also raises concerns about job elimination in areas like banking and retail[5].

Conversely, many experts suggest that AI will lead to the creation of new jobs, particularly those that require high-skilled labor. The demand for skills in AI and big data is becoming a priority for larger companies, highlighting the importance of integrating these skills into education and workforce training[2][3].

Moreover, AI has the potential to augment human roles rather than completely replace them. Businesses are starting to realize that while AI can automate certain tasks, it is more likely to enhance human performance[2]. This shift indicates a need for workers to adapt, emphasizing the development of soft skills and a focus on continuous learning to remain competitive in the evolving job market[4][3].

Overall, the landscape is changing rapidly, and as AI technology continues to evolve, so too will the nature of work across various sectors.

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What is the origin story of PlayStation's Gran Turismo?

The Origin Story of PlayStation's Gran Turismo

GRAN TURISMO - Official Trailer (HD)
title: 'GRAN TURISMO - Official Trailer (HD)' and caption: 'a man driving a car'

Early Beginnings

The story of PlayStation's Gran Turismo dates back to 1992, when Kazunori Yamauchi, then a staff member at Sony Music Entertainment, began to develop a vision for a realistic driving simulator. His initial concept aimed at creating 'the ultimate driving simulator with real licensed cars,' bridging the gap between arcade-style racers and hardcore simulations. However, his first pitch to the PlayStation executives was rejected, leading him to focus instead on developing a cartoon racing game, Motor Toon Grand Prix, which was released in December 1994. This game helped Yamauchi gain the trust of Sony executives and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the racing genre[4][7][9][12].

The Development of Gran Turismo

'a silver car covered in a silver cloth'
title: 'The Beginning of Gran Turismo: Watch Part 1 of GTPlanet's New Video Series on the History of GT' and caption: 'a silver car covered in a silver cloth'

The real development of Gran Turismo commenced after the success of Motor Toon Grand Prix. Yamauchi began working on the project officially in 1993. His small team, known as Polys Entertainment, initially consisted of only five members and gradually expanded to about 17 personnel. Gran Turismo was developed over a total of five years, as Yamauchi and his team worked diligently to create a game that emphasized realism and a detailed car physics simulation. They incorporated various driving mechanics and a vast array of licensed vehicles, aiming to provide an unparalleled experience for players[2][10][14].

Despite his commitment and vision, Yamauchi faced significant challenges. He struggled to convince the executives of PlayStation about the value of a realistic racing game, leading to uncertainty about the project’s future. Nonetheless, Yamauchi persisted, working on Motor Toon Grand Prix while simultaneously handling Gran Turismo as a side project. It was during this period that he managed to gain approval to develop the game after demonstrating his capabilities with the earlier titles[5][9][12].

Collaboration and Features

Origin Story: Kazunori Yamauchi & Shuhei Yoshida Look Back at Gran Turismo’s Inception
title: 'Origin Story: Kazunori Yamauchi & Shuhei Yoshida Look Back at Gran Turismo’s Inception' and caption: 'a group of race cars'

The collaboration with automobile manufacturers was a crucial element of Gran Turismo's development. Yamauchi, at just 25 years old, directly contacted various automakers, beginning with Toyota, and secured partnerships essential for including real cars in the game. Yamauchi noted that he once looked up the phone number of an automaker’s representative and made a presentation that lasted about two and a half hours, leading to their collaboration[4][7].

Gran Turismo featured a unique blend of racing and role-playing game elements; players could start with entry-level vehicles, earn prize money, and upgrade their cars over time. The game also showcased realistic handling and physics, setting a new standard for racing games. Notably, it included a roster of over 150 licensed vehicles, far surpassing any other game at the time. The attention to detail in car behaviors and the incorporation of a comprehensive tweaking and modification system contributed to the game's appeal to car enthusiasts and casual gamers alike[1][2][3][7].

Release and Impact

'a group of toys on a controller'
title: 'a1b0ecbf0c9e33cfaf1fe1206b1e544ad6e1428c' and caption: 'a group of toys on a controller'

Gran Turismo was released in Japan on December 23, 1997, followed by releases in North America and Europe in 1998. Upon its launch, Gran Turismo garnered massive anticipation and eventually became a commercial phenomenon, selling over 11 million copies worldwide. It established itself as a groundbreaking title in the racing genre due to its realism, intricate vehicle dynamics, and in-depth career mode, which integrated RPG elements into the racing experience. The game's success significantly impacted both the gaming and automotive industries, leading to the establishment of the Gran Turismo franchise[3][4][7][9][10].

Legacy

Star Wars Outlaws: hands-on report
title: 'Star Wars Outlaws: hands-on report' and caption: 'a screenshot of a video game'

The legacy of Gran Turismo extended far beyond its groundbreaking mechanics and innovative gameplay. It not only set new benchmarks for racing simulations but also solidified Polyphony Digital as a prominent entity in the gaming industry. The series continued to evolve, maintaining its core values of realism and passion for cars and racing, ultimately securing a significant place in video game history. The impact of Gran Turismo was further highlighted by the release of the film 'Gran Turismo' in 2023, which tells the gripping story of Jann Mardenborough, a teenager who became a professional racing driver after competing in the GT Academy, a program that recruited skilled players from the Gran Turismo video game[3][9][12].

Kazunori Yamauchi's journey from a budding game developer to a leading figure in the video game industry is emblematic of the innovation and dedication that shaped the creation of Gran Turismo—a title that transformed the racing game genre and continues to influence future developments in gaming.

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The Social and Economic Context of Wrecking in "The Lighthouse"

Introduction to Wrecking

In the early 19th century, before advancements in maritime safety and coastal protection, wrecking was a prevalent, albeit morally ambiguous, practice along the coasts of Britain[1]. The absence of efficient coastguards and the limited number of lighthouses created an environment where coastal communities often relied on the misfortunes of ships for their economic survival[1]. The story of the lighthouse is set in this era.

The Economic Drivers of Wrecking

The economic incentive for wrecking was particularly strong in areas where alternative means of sustenance were scarce. The text notes that some individuals did not hesitate to cause wrecks by displaying false lights to lure vessels to destruction[1]. These wreckers then profited from the remains of the ships and their cargo. The book describes wreckers as 'a class of men who, in the absence of an efficient coast-guard, subsisted to a large extent on what they picked up from the wrecks that were cast in their way'[1].

Moral Ambiguity and Legal Loopholes

While the act of deliberately causing a shipwreck was undoubtedly criminal, the line between assisting distressed vessels and exploiting their misfortune was often blurred[1]. The text suggests that 'not all wreckers were guilty of such crimes, but many of them were so, and their style of life, at the best, had naturally a demoralizing influence upon all of them'[1]. This moral gray area was further complicated by the lack of effective legal oversight and the desperation of coastal communities facing economic hardship[1].

Case Study: Big Swankie and the Spoils of Wrecking

The narrative provides a glimpse into the economic realities and moral compromises associated with wrecking through the character of Big Swankie. After a storm, Swankie and Davy Spink ventured out to the 'celebrated and much dreaded Inch Cape—more familiarly known as the Bell Rock' in search of wrecks[1]. Their dialogue and actions reveal the opportunistic nature of wrecking, with the expectation of finding 'something' after a storm that ‘strewing the coast with wrecks’[1].

Swankie's discovery of a dead man and his subsequent actions exemplify the ethical dilemmas inherent in wrecking. Initially, Swankie's impulse was to alert his companion, but he then checked himself and examined the dead man's pockets[1]. Finding valuables such as a gold watch, rings, brooches, and sovereigns, Swankie attempts to conceal his find from Spink, illustrating the temptation and moral compromises involved[1].

The Discovery of Valuables and Moral Decisions

The encounter between Swankie and Spink highlights the tensions between their shared venture and individual greed. Spink's arrival leads to a dispute over the division of the discovered wealth[1]. Swankie's rationalization and Spink's willingness to participate, despite initial reservations, underscore the complex moral landscape of wrecking[1]. They found nothing more of any value, but a piece of paper was discovered, wrapped up in oilskin, and carefully fastened with red tape, in the vest pocket of the dead man'[1]. This paper contained writing, but Swankie refolded the paper, and thrust it into his bosom, saying, Come, we're wasting time. Let's get on wi' our wark'[1].

The Impact of Lighthouses and Changing Times

The narrative contrasts this era of frequent wrecks and opportunistic wrecking with a future where advancements in maritime safety would reduce such practices[1]. The construction of lighthouses, such as the one on Bell Rock, symbolized a shift towards greater safety and regulation, challenging the traditional reliance on wrecking as a source of income[1]. The decision to build a lighthouse on the Bell Rock illustrates an intention to mitigate the terror mariners faced[1]. This initiative directly threatened the economic interests of those who depended on shipwrecks, signalling a changing attitude towards maritime activities and coastal economies.

Conclusion

Wrecking, as depicted in the book, was shaped by a complex interplay of economic pressures, moral ambiguities, and evolving legal frameworks[1]. While providing a means of survival for some coastal communities, the practice also perpetuated a cycle of exploitation and danger. As technology advanced with the construction of lighthouses, and laws were put in place, the reliance on wrecking diminished, reflecting a gradual shift towards more regulated and ethical maritime practices[1].


What does the paper on "Object Detection" propose that enhances existing models?


When did web development frameworks start to become popular?

None

Web development frameworks started to gain popularity around the mid-2000s with the release of jQuery in 2006, which simplified tasks like DOM manipulation and event handling[5]. Subsequently, frameworks such as AngularJS in 2010, React in 2013, and Vue.js in 2014 further contributed to the rising trend of using frameworks to improve code structure, performance, and user experience[1][3]. Additionally, the emergence of CSS frameworks like Blueprint, 960, YUI Grids, and YAML, as well as the release of Bootstrap in 2011 and Foundation in the same year, played a significant role in popularizing web development frameworks and making grid systems more accessible to designers and developers[2]. Overall, the adoption of web development frameworks has offered various benefits such as reducing development time, standardization, easier portability, responsive design, improved security, scalability, sustainability, and community support[4].


How did the Cuban Missile Crisis unfold?


Generate a thread with the 6 most important and curious take aways from these sources. This is for an everyday audience so use an easy to understand tone. Do not use hashtags.

  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    Mind blown: AI user and usage growth is officially UNPRECEDENTED . This tech is ramping up faster than anything we've ever seen; even machines can't keep up 🤯.

    🧵 1/6

  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    ChatGPT is history’s biggest ‘overnight’ success . Unlike the Internet 1.0, which started in the USA, ChatGPT grew globally all at once 🌍. It hit 800 million weekly users in just 17 months !

    🧵 2/6

    • Growth of US-Based LLM Users (2022-2025)
  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    AI's 'better, faster, cheaper' impacts feel like the early days of email & web search . Breakthroughs in models, cost declines, & open-source tech are making AI more powerful and accessible ✨.

    🧵 3/6

    • AI Model Compute Cost Trends by Component
  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    The AI talent surge is REAL: NVIDIA's ecosystem grew +6x to 6MM developers over seven years . Google's Gemini boasts +5x to 7MM developers Y/Y ! It's a creative explosion 🚀.

    🧵 4/6

    • Global Developers in NVIDIA Ecosystem (MM) – 2005-2025, Per NVIDIA
  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    Supercomputers are getting supercharged😲! AI supercomputer performance is growing +150% per year . This is fueled by better chips and algorithms. The future is NOW!

    🧵 5/6

    • Performance, 16 -bit FLOP/s
  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    Geopolitics & tech are now heavily intertwined 🤝. AI leadership could beget geopolitical leadership, says Meta . It's 'game on' between the USA and China, who are charging ahead ! Follow for more AI insights and share your thoughts!

    🧵 6/6

  • handler
    @ask_pandi

    Sources from:

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The Role of Myths in Shaping Cultural Values

'a group of scrolls on a table'
title: 'How Ancient Myths and Legends Reflect the Societal Values and Beliefs of the Cultures That Created…' and caption: 'a group of scrolls on a table'

Myths play a vital role in shaping the cultural values of societies by providing frameworks for understanding the world, establishing moral codes, and reinforcing social norms. Through narratives, rituals, and shared experiences, myths convey the beliefs, values, and ideals that define various cultures.

Explanation and Frameworks

At their core, myths serve as explanations for natural phenomena and social customs, offering narratives that codify collective memories and wisdom passed through generations. For instance, as highlighted in various sources, myths help explain essential life questions, such as creation, existence, morality, and the human experience, thus providing a meaningful framework through which societies understand their reality[1][3][7]. The imaginative power of myths makes them memorable, crystallizing complex ideas into enduring narratives.

Moreover, myths articulate ethical values and societal norms. For example, the Greek myths reflect notions of heroism, morality, and the human condition, establishing standards of behavior for individuals within the society[2][4]. The archetypal characters in these stories often exemplify virtues like bravery and wisdom, serving as models for personal conduct[9]. Consequently, individuals are influenced by these narratives, navigating their lives with guidance from the ideals represented within the myths.

Reinforcement of Social Norms

Myths also play a significant role in justifying and legitimizing social norms and hierarchies. Many cultures have creation myths that link their legal and social structures to divine origins, thereby granting authority to their laws and customs. For instance, ancient legal systems often posited that their laws were divinely ordained, with myths validating their existence[7][8]. This connection between myth and law fosters a sense of order and stability, reinforcing communal beliefs and practices that shape everyday life.

In addition to upholding social order, myths can also reflect and respond to societal changes. As societies evolve, myths often adapt, incorporating contemporary issues and concerns while retaining their foundational narratives. This evolution illustrates how myths not only resonate with the cultural context of their time but also actively shape cultural values by reflecting the aspirations, fears, and moral dilemmas of the society[5][8].

Cultural Heritage and Collective Identity

The transmission of myths through oral and written traditions plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage. By recounting these stories, societies maintain a link to their past, fostering a sense of identity and continuity[3][8]. Myths serve as vessels for cultural memories, helping individuals understand their origins and place within a larger narrative. They create an 'us versus them' mentality that can unify members of a community while simultaneously distinguishing one culture from another[8].

Furthermore, the themes prevalent in myths often express the collective psyche of a culture, reflecting societal values and interpersonal relationships. The narratives encapsulate what a society holds dear and warn against vices that threaten communal harmony, thus aligning individual behavior with collective expectations[2][4][9]. By engaging with these myths, individuals cultivate a personal identity intertwined with their cultural values and heritage.

Moral Guidance and Educational Value

The Power of Myths in Shaping Societies
title: 'The Power of Myths in Shaping Societies' and caption: 'a book with stars and stars in the background'

Myths frequently provide moral guidance, offering cautionary tales that highlight the consequences of certain behaviors. These stories emphasize the importance of virtues while cautioning against hubris, greed, and other vices. They function as a moral compass for societies, illustrating behaviors to emulate or avoid[3][8]. For example, in many myths, heroic figures endure trials that test their virtues, reinforcing the idea that personal growth is often achieved through overcoming challenges.

Moreover, myths have a valuable educational aspect, as they encapsulate the knowledge and beliefs of a culture in narrative form. They serve as a means of instruction, imparting lessons about life and existence and ensuring that cultural values are transmitted to future generations[6][7]. The integration of moral lessons within myths ensures that they remain relevant, adapting to contemporary values while retaining their historical significance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, myths are a fundamental element in shaping cultural values, providing a narrative framework that explains existence, establishes moral codes, and reinforces societal norms. They serve as a bridge between past and present, uniting communities through shared stories and collective identities. By studying myths, we gain insight into the complexities of human experience and the enduring ideals that shape cultures across time and space. Thus, the influence of myths continues to resonate in contemporary society, reminding us of the profound ways in which these narratives guide and reflect our values and beliefs.