Lets read + discuss two quick posts about the speed of scientific progress together!

Is Science Slowing Down? - Scott Alexander, 2018

Why is Science Slowing Down? - Kelsey Piper, 2023

Some starting points/questions for discussion include:

• How different do you anticipate 2034 being from today? Would you expect the gap be bigger or smaller than the gap between 2014 and 2024?
• Do you believe there are any fields or areas of study where progress is accelerating rather than slowing down? What sets these fields apart?
• In your personal experience, which areas of science and technology have had the most significant impact on your daily life over the past decade? How do you expect these areas to evolve in the coming years?
• If you could prioritize and accelerate progress in one scientific or technological field, which would it be and why?
• Imagine you could travel 50 years into the future and witness the state of science and technology. What breakthroughs or advancements would you hope to see, and what concerns or disappointments would you worry about discovering?

Copied from jenn, because talking about technological utopias and how to get there sounds fun.

Location

Enter the Mars Atrium via University Avenue entrance. We'll meet at the food court in the basement. I'll be wearing a bright neon yellow jacket.

Detailed Directions to the Food Court

Enter from University Avenue and walk east until you see escalators. Take the escalators down. The food court is to the east of the escalators. If you are lost/confused, ask a security guard to direct you to the food court.