Author: timbatchelder

  • The politics of the internet: orkutificação or becoming “orkutised”

    In contrast to utopian ideals of some, the Internet like most other domains of social conduct is rapidly being divided into closed networks, haves and have nots. MySpace has been branded “lower class” and in Brazil wealthier citizens are migrating to Facebook from Orkut (Google’s social network) and branding those who still use the older…

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  • You are not a gadget: Considering the social side of new technologies

    A good critique of some of the risks and issues of today’s exploding use of online social media. Jaron Lanier argues it is creating a wealth of fake, fragmented social relationships, endlessly rehashed content and demeaning true human talents. And this is coming from a hardcore techie who developed VR. However his parents relocated to New…

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  • Parakeet: Improving speech recognition using user feedback

    The problem with current speech recognition software (and why it is still maddeningly inaccurate sometimes) is that it cannot learn and receive immediate feedback from users as occurs in natural speech. Now, computational linguists are developing new approaches which allow this to happen, leading to much higher accuracy rates. Monitor: Correct me if I’m wrong……

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  • EvoFIT: Evolutionary science and anthropometrics applied to criminal facial recognition software

    For a long time the process of identifying suspects in criminal cases was a rather frighteningly imprecise one of line ups relying on human’s often variable ability to remember specific facial features. Now, using evolutionary and anthropometric sciences, this article shows how new software can allow identification using a gradual process of increased recognition more…

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  • Social network analysis science detects Medicare fraud, terrorisms plots

    Fascinating article which shows how social network analysis (SNA)science is being used in the business world including everything from finding Saddam Hussein (by mapping his chauffeurs’ habits online) to identifying healthcare fraud. Mining social networks: Untangling the social web | The Economist. Related articles Big Data To Become Powerful Driver Of IT Spending – Gartner (misco.co.uk)…

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  • TVTropes: The Linguistic Science of Television

    TV like all other forms of primate communication is subject to analysis by behavioral science and, in this case, linguistics shows that almost all television consists of handful of stories recycled again and again…. Scott Brown on the Building Blocks of Prime Time | Wired Magazine | Wired.com. Related articles Applied Linguistics and its Role…

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  • Micro-distilleries tap into molecular sciences and artisanal interests

    Just when you thought Miller Lite was the pinnacle of the US beverage industry, the same interest in local, organic and clean tech is creeping into this sector as well with the increasing prevalence of micro distilleries. Filter: Micro-Distilleries Lead the Geek Booze Craze | Wired Magazine | Wired.com. Related articles Prichard’s Distillery Opens Their…

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  • Sea Dog Brew Pub, Hull MA

    Nice place with a great view of the ocean. Perfect for a beer and fish sandwich after a day of kayaking on the coast… Menu | Sea Dog Brew Pub, Hull MA | Seafood, Burgers, Steaks and More!. Related articles Sea Dog pubs pop up in Florida; owner believes tourism will drive success (bangordailynews.com) Hopcat…

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