Random Thoughts XIII - Radioenergopithecocracy

[Takhisis]

A common phrase, uttered by beggars, can be translated as "give (money) which you can ill-afford to do". It's supposed to work by admitting that the benefactor is giving money to the beggar, despite money being an issue for them too, thus (I suppose) acting as an apology.
But today, as I was walking, a beggar apparently (?) mixed the phraseology a bit, and asked something like "give me a look, which you can ill-afford to do".
Maybe it's just that obvious I don't wish to look at most people

Or maybe the man doesn't just not have money, but any human contact at all.

 

[Broken_Erika]

That Barbie has got some weird ideas if her dream house is missing one of its walls

Cutting corners during construction so all rooms have 3 walls?

 

[GenMarshall]

Cutting corners during construction so all rooms have 3 walls?

Someone broke the forth wall .

 

[Valka D'Ur]

That Barbie has got some weird ideas if her dream house is missing one of its walls

I assume you mean generic Barbie play houses?

They have to have a wall missing, so whoever is playing with it can rearrange the furniture.

There are some playhouses now that do have four walls, but there's a release to open up so you can still place the characters in whatever rooms, and play with the furniture.

I've got several pattern books for these among my 3-D needlework stuff.

 

[Moriarte]

For amusement, and to check if it's an engaging learning format, I thought I'd pit chatGPT4 against itself in a communist v fascist debate. Check it out:

Prompt:

Write me a conversation-debate between one communist and one fascist on the subject of political economy. Name communist Lenin, name fascist Mussolini. Communist starts discussion with his statement, 50 words. Fascist chooses the main point within communist's speech and demonstrates faulty logic of that point from the point of view of fascist ideology, while offering a viable alternative. Communist then responds to fascist denoting faulty logic within fascist's latest point, while offering a viable alternative based on communist ideology. Speakers can agree and disagree on particular points. The discussion goes on and on until we meet the message word count limit. At that point I press continue and discussion progresses further. Lets begin.

Spoiler Answer #1 :

Lenin: Comrades, in a communist society, the means of production are owned and controlled by the people. This ensures that wealth is distributed equitably among all, abolishing exploitation of man by man. The focus shifts to collective welfare and progress, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Mussolini: Lenin, your idea of collective ownership fails to recognize the importance of competition and individual excellence. In Fascism, the state orchestrates both private and state-owned enterprises for national greatness. This approach motivates individuals to contribute their best, driving innovation and progress. Communism suppresses individuality and creates economic stagnation.

Lenin: Your argument, Mussolini, rests on the idea that competition drives innovation. But what about the vast wealth inequalities and exploitation that accompany this? In communism, innovation is driven by the needs and desires of the people. Collective ownership doesn't mean suppressing individuality; it means working together for a common goal without the burden of class struggles.

Mussolini: Wealth inequality is an inevitable part of progress. You cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs. But in a fascist state, this is managed by ensuring that the state, representing the collective, benefits. The individuals are motivated to work for the glory of the nation, which in turn ensures they are taken care of. There is unity in purpose.

Lenin: You speak of unity, but it is a unity enforced through authoritarian means, without the genuine consent of the people. In a communist society, the unity is built through common ownership and shared interests. Everyone has a say in the decisions affecting them. It is true democracy.

Mussolini: That 'true democracy' you speak of leads to a lack of decisive action. A strong central authority is necessary to avoid the pitfalls of excessive deliberation and to act in the nation's best interests. The unity in fascism is not just enforced; it is a unity born out of a shared sense of national identity and purpose.

Lenin: Mussolini, your notion of a 'strong central authority' invariably leads to the suppression of dissent and the marginalization of those who do not conform. A society needs diverse perspectives for genuine progress. Communism allows for the flourishing of diverse perspectives as it is not tied to a narrow nationalistic agenda.

Mussolini: Diversity without a guiding framework leads to fragmentation. In a fascist state, the government serves as a guiding hand that ensures unity and a shared purpose. It does not suppress individual excellence but channels it in service of the nation. In your communist state, the lack of a guiding framework leads to economic inefficiencies and lack of direction.

Lenin: In communism, the guiding framework is the collective welfare of all. This is not a lack of direction but a commitment to ensuring that no one is exploited. Economic efficiencies can be achieved without the concentration of power in the hands of a few. Mussolini, you must realize that the empowerment of the people is the ultimate goal.

Mussolini: The ultimate goal should be the greatness and prosperity of the nation. When the nation is strong, the people are strong. The state, as the embodiment of the national will, must have the authority to direct resources and policy to achieve this greatness. This is what fascism achieves.

Lenin: Mussolini, by focusing solely on the nation, you are ignoring the individuals that compose it. The true strength of a nation lies in the well-being of its citizens. Communism seeks to empower every individual, which in turn strengthens the entire community. This is achieved not through authoritarian means but through collective ownership and decision-making.

Spoiler Prompt #2 :

Continue

Spoiler Answer #2 :

Mussolini: Lenin, you argue for collective ownership, but who manages this? It eventually falls into the hands of a select few, and then we are no different in essence. In Fascism, we are transparent about the role of the state. Moreover, a sense of nationhood is necessary to unite people beyond local interests, which can be narrow and short-sighted.

Lenin: The key difference, Mussolini, is in the ideology and goals of those in power. In communism, power is used to ensure equitable distribution and collective welfare. When properly implemented, the involvement of the masses in decision-making prevents power concentration. Your claim that nationhood is the only uniting factor ignores the power of class solidarity and common economic interests.

Mussolini: But Lenin, history shows that when left unchecked, the so-called collective welfare can devolve into a tyranny by the majority or an oligarchy. In Fascism, the state actively guards against such scenarios. It ensures that the nation, culture, and people prosper through disciplined and organized methods. This stability is paramount.

Lenin: Mussolini, your emphasis on stability under a Fascist state comes at the cost of freedom, equality, and the ability of the people to shape their destiny. History also shows that fascism often leads to wars and atrocities in the name of nationhood. Communism, on the other hand, seeks international solidarity among working people, promoting peace and cooperation.

Mussolini: Lenin, let’s not pretend that Communism hasn’t led to its fair share of atrocities in the name of equality. However, I do recognize that international solidarity is admirable. Fascism, too, could work towards international collaboration, but with nations that share a common purpose and identity, strengthening each other for mutual benefits.

Lenin: Indeed, Mussolini, no ideology is without its flaws. It is important to learn from history. However, Communism's core principles of common ownership and equality remain relevant. Perhaps, we can consider a synthesis where international solidarity is combined with local self-governance, allowing communities to take charge of their resources while cooperating with others.

Mussolini: Lenin, a synthesis that borrows the strengths of both ideologies while negating the extremes could be an interesting concept. Fascism’s sense of national identity and decisive governance could be balanced with Communism’s emphasis on equality and collective welfare. However, great care must be taken to prevent the pitfalls of both ideologies.

Lenin: Agreed, Mussolini. This synthesis should be rooted in the democratic involvement of the masses, respecting their freedoms and rights, while having a guiding framework that ensures the stability and progress of the society. The principles of internationalism and cooperation should also play a major role in promoting peace and mutual development among nations.

Mussolini: Lenin, we may never fully agree, but I concede that there are aspects of both ideologies that, if combined thoughtfully, could lead to a more just and prosperous society. The challenge lies in execution and the avoidance of the extremes that have marred both Communism and Fascism in history.

Lenin: True, Mussolini. The well-being of the people should be the ultimate goal, and it is imperative that we constantly question and evolve our ideologies to serve this purpose. This conversation is a testament to the value of engaging with differing viewpoints and finding common ground for the betterment of society.

Spoiler Prompt #3 :

Too much agreement. Make discussion participants be more cautious in accepting opposing viewpoints as valid. Continue.

Spoiler Answer #3 :

Mussolini: However, Lenin, while this discussion has explored common grounds, I remain cautious. The historical tendencies of Communism to strip away individual liberties in the name of collective welfare are deeply concerning. It is crucial that any synthesis does not lose sight of the importance of individual freedoms and national pride.

Lenin: And I, Mussolini, remain skeptical about the amalgamation of nationalism from Fascism. There’s a thin line between national pride and toxic nationalism that leads to the oppression of minorities and xenophobia. While individual freedoms are important, they must not be exploited as a means to allow the strong to oppress the weak under the banner of nationalism.

Mussolini: That’s fair, Lenin. But let's not ignore the importance of a strong state in protecting its people. Communism often undermines this. The state should have the authority to decisively protect its citizens and their interests. But I agree, this should not morph into oppressive nationalism.

Lenin: Mussolini, a strong state does not necessarily imply a better life for the citizens. What matters is how the strength is utilized. I urge you to understand that in Communism, the strength lies in the people. It is a system that, when applied without authoritarian perversion, empowers individuals through community bonds. A balance is vital, but the community must not be overlooked.

Mussolini: Lenin, I understand the value of community, but the state represents the collective will of the people and their interests. Perhaps the synthesis we speak of should establish a strong state but with mechanisms that ensure that the power remains truly representative of and accountable to the people. And, it should safeguard individual liberties and promote a unifying national identity without crossing into oppression.

Lenin: Agreed, Mussolini, but let me reiterate the importance of international solidarity. The nation should not be an isolated entity but a part of the global community. The synthesis should encourage cooperation and peace among nations. The 'collective will' should be enlightened and inclusive, ensuring that it does not trample upon the marginalized.

Mussolini: Lenin, international solidarity is indeed important. But let us also not lose sight of the fact that a nation must sometimes put its interests first to protect its citizens. The synthesis must ensure that while participating in the international community, the interests of the nation and its people are never compromised.

Lenin: Mussolini, putting the nation's interests first should not mean exploiting other nations or practicing protectionism to the detriment of global progress. The synthesis should aim for equitable international relations. While I acknowledge the importance of safeguarding the interests of one's nation, it should not be done in isolation or at the expense of global cooperation and fairness.

Mussolini: Very well, Lenin. But it is imperative that as we talk about synthesis, we remain vigilant. The ideologies we represent have had their share of historical failings. This new path must learn from those, and be guided by principles that ensure freedom, fairness, and prosperity, both within nations and globally. But, we must also acknowledge that this is easier said than done.

Lenin: Indeed, Mussolini. We must tread carefully. The essence of this synthesis should be the well-being of humanity as a whole. It should seek to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and build bridges among nations. The lessons of history must guide the steps we take, and eternal vigilance must be the price of the liberties and cooperation we seek.

 

[Kyriakos]

Or maybe the man doesn't just not have money, but any human contact at all.

Another reason to use that living doll-beggar, if you recall

 

[Kyriakos]

Camus is (imo) a good example of how someone who looks nice but not ancient Greek god-level beautiful, manages to easily became an icon somatic-wise too in the field of literature - because the vast majority of writers just look bad ^^
We need more hot people in our ranks.

 

[Kouvb593kdnuewnd]

Getting a programming job at tech company is about luck and being in right position at the right time. Like there is no way somebody like me could otherwise get a job where people have patents and multiple degrees, while I've zero experience and only significant academic achievement being getting like perfect scores on exam like two times. I also don't do any programming or such on free time.

 

[Plains-Cow]

Ya'll know what time it izzzzzzaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!


Thanks.

Moderator Action: Don't spam. Thank you. ~ Arakhor

 

[Takhisis]

What did you say?

 

[Plains-Cow]

@Arakhor

Hello, I do not want to be spam. I don't even like to eat it!

I was under the impression that this was the right place for an occasional scream, per:

Random Rants noventa y tres: The Incredible Hulk will not be presented this evening.

You do know that stopping a course of antibiotics in the middle is generally a bad idea, right? That's how you get things like MRSA. That used to be the general advise but has since been abandoned. Though it's of course true that excessive use of antibiotics leads to resistant germs.

forums.civfanatics.com

USE THIS THREAD IF YOU NEED TO SCREAM

Title explains it all-...

forums.civfanatics.com

If this is no longer the case, I will take my higher-decibel needs to a different thread at your direction to where.

Thank you,

-Plans-Cow

 

[Takhisis]

This is weird. Wired has an article on ‘Why $0.00 is the future of business: Clever business models and the falling price of storage, bandwidth, and processing have given rise to a new economy. Call it “freeconomics.” which is, curiously enough, paywalled.

 

[Narz]

How to Be Animal: An Antidote to Our Self-Expatriation from Nature

How to embrace our inheritance as “a creature of organic substance and electricity that can be eaten, injured and dissipated back into the enigmatic physics of the universe.”

www.themarginalian.org

This article reminds me of @Birdjaguar for some reason

 

[Valka D'Ur]

Most people here are partially eaten every summer, by a voracious predator known as a mosquito.

I've been mosquito bite-free the last few summers, as I rarely leave the building now, and never at the times when they're most active.

 

[aimeeandbeatles]

Ya'll know what time it izzzzzzaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!


Thanks.

Moderator Action: Don't spam. Thank you. ~ Arakhor

I think both your 'a' and 'caps lock' key got stuck.

 

[Plains-Cow]

Most people here are partially eaten every summer, by a voracious predator known as a mosquito.

I've been mosquito bite-free the last few summers, as I rarely leave the building now, and never at the times when they're most active.

Do you ever get anxiety from being inside so much or with the idea that you need to leave at some point?

 

[Kaitzilla]

Capitalism wins again.

Way bigger than the Titanic!

 

[r16]

there are easier things than some youtube video ...

 

[Kyriakos]

Titanic wasn't, even by ww2 (just a couple of decades after it sunk), amazingly large. Google tells me that some ww2 warships (including the Bismark) were basically of the same size. I suppose various other (such as aircraft carriers) were considerably larger.
Nowadays there's no contest.

 

[PhroX]

Modern cruise ships are phenomonally ugly vessels, particularly when compared to classic liners. Sure the former can carry more people, but the latter did it in style.....