Writing something every day seems incredible to me, I often don't have the energy to read every day let alone write.

Are there any techniques you (or others) use to boost your mental energy?

I had something similar happen to me (with a different but equally inflammatory topic).

I didn't say anything I don't believe, but I think I could have said it in a more diplimatic way.

Is that the case with you too?

As would I.

I also suspect that learning and thinking as a group would be a cool way to make friends.

Agreed, the goal was not well formulated.

My focus was on the group aspect rather than the goal aspect, and I think your suggestion is a good one.

Is anyone interested in forming a (online) mastermind group with the goal of improving rationality?

I've read that study groups can be more effective than studdying alone, and maybe small groups of aprox 4 discussing the sequences / other reading matterial would make things more interesting.

Does anyone have tips on Distinguishing the fallacy from reality.

For example, if I wanted to know if the recent sexual problems in the acting community are over represented in that community, how would I find out?

How do I find the number of people in that industry, the number of events (where guilt is known) and the number outside of hollywood.

I'm sure methods must exists for getting this information, but I don't know them.

I think this will be an exciting sequence and I'm looking forward to taking part.

By the way, did you obtain the "bootleg CFAR techniques" by attending a workshop, or do they provide digital content now?

I live far outside the U.S and am not able to go to workshops, but if they have ebooks or something that would be great.

What sort of techniques do people use to ascend understanding?

Writing sounds like a good method, but do others exist?

I think writing and teaching work because it forces you to express the idea in your own way.

It's easy to think you know something because you can quote others on the topic.

I find that trying to relate the concept to something else I level 2 - 3 understand is sometimes useful.

I'm starting to learn rationality, and I'd like to level 3 understand it, and if anyone has some tips on how to do this I would very much appreciate it.

I really enjoyed reading this, thank you for writing it.

I especially liked your point about Yudkowsky's own improvement giving him insite on AI.

I once wished for additional intelegence in the same way most people wish they could fly.

But in the last few weeks, I've decided to actually do something about it, and This post gave me another nudge in the right direction.

First comment ever on this site, it's good to be here.

I think asking should be a last resort in the sympathy vs Solution dance.

If I know the person well, I can usually tell which they want, based on how fast they talk.

If I'm in doubt, something like "Have you tried / thought about [Cool Solution]?" will tell me what I need to know.

Either the other person picks up on it and runs with it toward solving the problem, or they run deeper into emotion.