Sober analysis of policy, AI, and the social engine of pop culture.

(and the occasional game theory model)

Writing on these topics is infected with motivated reasoning, internal contradiction, and being downright obtuse. We commit to self-awareness and candor. And if you catch us slipping, call us out: we're not threatened by contrition.

Built on five maxims:

(1) The smartest prior is epistemic humility

(2) Empirical realities are not a personal attack

(3) Moral technology is stubborn and slow to change

(4) Ideal ≠ Optimal

(5) You DON'T negotiate with terrorists*

*unless you’re dealing with a terrorist…in which case you better fucking negotiate