John Scalzi pretty much summing up my thoughts on not drinking alcohol. I’ve chosen a slightly stricter path — I’ve not even tried the stuff — but otherwise completely spot on in sentiment and rationale.
Links
The Broadcast of Comics
Warren Ellis discussing The Broadcast of Comics. Worth the read.
On Being an Introvert at Big Conferences
On Being an Introvert at Big Conferences (Aaron Hockley)
I completely agree with his summation: as an introvert, I still enjoy and appreciate the conferences I attend, still find the social element rewarding and valuable. But I have to pace myself, and make room for needing to withdraw and recharge from time to time.
Intel's Social Media Guidelines
In an excellent example of corporate social-transparency, Intel just posted their social media guidelines, which they expect their employees to follow when engaging the public. I think this is fantastic, and a great example of a major company “walking the walk” when it comes to social media and community interaction. For anyone engaging in online communities and social media interaction, they’re an excellent guide to go by.
"Icky Speech"
Neil Gaiman expounds quite clearly on why even “icky” speech needs to be protected. This is in response to a comment regarding the Handley case, where a Manga collector is being prosecuted for owning obscene materials. Something I would add to the dialogue personally is a favorite H.L. Mencken quote:
The trouble with fighting for human freedom is that one spends most of oneâs time defending scoundrels. For it is against scoundrels that oppressive laws are first aimed, and oppression must be stopped at the beginning if it is to be stopped at all. (H.L. Mencken)
FriendDA
FriendDA: NDAs for the real world. Key element to it:
I possess a bright idea that I am choosing to disclose to you, The Advisor, with the mutual understanding that you are my friend and that you will not screw me.
Ubiquity
I recently got clued into a new system being developed by the folks over at Mozilla called Ubiquity. The short of it is that they’re trying to create a method to allow the web to function more seamlessly using natural language. Ubiquity in Depth explains a bit more about the logic and reasoning and path forward for the tool. Should be very interesting to see where it goes.
War on Photography
War on Photography: Quite possibly one of the most enraging sites I’ve read in a good long while. It documents reports of photographers being harassed for no reason by police, security guards, and even random passersby. If you’re remotely interested in photography or first amendment rights (or, heaven forfend, both), it’s a quick way to raise your blood pressure about 30 points.
Patchwork Internet
Warren Ellis on the patchwork years of the internet. Interesting reading, and mirrors a lot of what I’ve been thinking and talking about.
Moo Cards
I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned them before, but their recent announcement for Moo Business Cards prompted me to call them out again. Each card can be customized, and allows for a wealth of photographic and other artistic material to be added and given away. Given the high quality, full-bleed custom work that is done, the pricing is really pretty good. Definitely worth checking out if you need some business cards done and want to do something a little different. MOO’s Website