About:

Derek Thompson is a writer and podcaster focused on abundance, politics, and technology, hosting the 'Plain English' podcast and writing on Substack.

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Specializations:

Interests:

Abundance American politics Liberalism Science Technology Artificial intelligence Clean energy Biotech

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The post analyzes the rapid growth of AI spending and revenue, suggesting it may indicate an economic bubble similar to past infrastructure projects.
The blog post draws parallels between the transformative impact of the transcontinental railroads in the 19th century and the current artificial intelligence boom. It discusses how both technological advancements have reshaped eco...
The article explores the concept of sleep, questioning the common sentiment of loving it. It discusses sleep pressure, the biological need for sleep, and a recent study suggesting that sleep evolved due to the energy demands of co...
The article discusses the widespread consensus among financial experts that artificial intelligence (AI) is a bubble, yet ordinary investors continue to invest heavily in AI companies. Despite warnings from industry leaders about ...
The 'orality theory of everything' suggests that the transition from oral to literate communication has reshaped human thought and social dynamics, with modern media echoing ancient oral traditions.
The post discusses the ongoing debate about whether the current AI investment landscape represents a bubble. Co-authored by Timothy Lee, it highlights the repetitive nature of arguments in the discourse, presenting a collection of...
The post explores the uncertainty surrounding AI's economic impact, revealing how speculative narratives dominate discussions in the absence of concrete data.
The essay explores the paradox of the Trump administration's economic policies, particularly regarding tariffs and artificial intelligence (AI). It suggests that while the administration promotes protectionism, it simultaneously c...
The blog post analyzes the recent electoral victories of Democratic candidates Zohran Mamdani, Mikie Sherrill, and Abigail Spanberger, attributing their success to a focus on affordability as a central campaign theme. It discusses...
The article discusses a chart that illustrates a significant divergence between the booming stock market and declining job openings in the U.S. economy since the launch of ChatGPT. It questions the narrative that AI is solely resp...
The METR chart illustrates rapid AI advancements but is often misunderstood, indicating a more chaotic and less economically impactful future for AI than many predict.
The post examines the complex and divided discourse on AI, focusing on its usefulness, potential job displacement, and the varying perceptions of its impact on society.
The Iran War's economic fallout extends beyond oil prices, threatening global supply chains and increasing costs across various sectors, including agriculture and technology.
The post examines the historical progression of medical treatments, focusing on the GLP-1 drug revolution and the complexities of public trust in the pharmaceutical industry.
Exploring the unintended consequences of historical events and economic changes, the author reflects on how they shaped family dynamics and societal norms during paternity leave.
The post explores the decline of reading, the rise of streaming media, and the evolving values of young Americans, highlighting significant trends shaping the future of society and the economy.
The article explores the lives of two young men, Spishak and Kyle, who represent a growing trend among young men in America towards isolation and addiction to pornography and gambling, respectively. It discusses how the pandemic h...
Metrics in modern life can overshadow intrinsic values, leading to a disconnect between personal fulfillment and external measurements, as explored through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights.
Disagreement over shared facts stems from individual interpretations shaped by beliefs and cognitive limitations, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in discussions.
The unjustified war against Iran risks triggering an energy crisis, compounding the challenges of a weakening US economy and rising unemployment.
Prayer can enhance psychological well-being and resilience, even for those who do not hold traditional beliefs, as it fosters hope and emotional strength.
The post uses the metaphor of a game involving a pitcher of water and cups to illustrate how individuals allocate their attention and time throughout the day. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing where one's focus is direct...
Parenthood is a transformative journey filled with evolving relationships, joy, and existential significance, akin to navigating a constantly changing city.
Derek Thompson discusses the narrative that young people are struggling economically, citing venture capitalist Peter Thiel's surprising comments on the issue. The article explores various factors contributing to the challenges fa...