Local-first software prioritizes user autonomy and offline functionality, challenging misconceptions and advocating for native, open-source applications over traditional web-based models.
The post critically examines the ethical concerns and psychological impacts of using Large Language Models in programming, particularly in nonprofit contexts.
The post advocates for simpler, user-friendly technology, criticizing the complexity of modern AI integrations and calling for a return to 'stupid' programs that prioritize functionality.
02025 Reading List
2025-01-08 •
Steven Deobald shares his 2025 reading list, including books he has read and is planning to read, along with his ratings and reviews for each book.
0I am looking for work. (Taylor's Version)
2024-12-10 •
After 13 years of entrepreneurship, Steven Deobald is looking for full-time employment. He has experience in building and growing technology teams, writing code, and managing software teams. He has lived and worked in various loca...
0Optimistic Computing
2024-12-09 •
The text discusses the evolution of computing over the decades, the anticompetitive nature of large tech companies, and the author's perspective on optimism in technology. It also delves into the concept of 'boot to kill' and the ...
0Third Wave (Commercial) Open Source
2024-08-13 •
The text discusses the evolution of Commercial Open Source Software (COSS) through three waves, characterized by different business models and strategies. The third wave emphasizes financial sustainability and new tools, in additi...
0Trucks, Tubes, and Truth
2022-06-21 •
The text discusses the author's experience at an off-grid cabin in an Acadian forest, where he reflects on the simplicity of life and the challenges of living without modern conveniences. He also delves into the concept of moving ...
0Blockchain Without the Crypto
2021-11-11 •
The text discusses the presence of Bitcoin ATMs in rural areas and the concept of blockchain technology. It compares the benefits and tradeoffs of blockchain and databases, and the practical applications of each. The author also h...
0The Strength of the Record
2021-03-28 •
The text discusses the history and evolution of computer storage metaphors, such as tables, documents, and triples, and their limitations. It also explores the concept of records and how they are the most natural form of organizin...
02020 Reading List
2020-01-27 •
The text is a personal list of books and essays that the author would like to read, in priority order. The list is a living document and entirely personal, published as part of the 'Publish Everything' initiative.
0Ethical Software For Everyone
2019-11-27 •
The text discusses the evolution of personal ethics and the need for labels to simplify and categorize individual ethics. It delves into the complexities of software ethics and the need for simple, universal, and reproducible labe...
0Hacker Villages
2019-11-19 •
The text discusses the concept of a Hacker Village, a community of creators and innovators, and the potential for such a village in India. It also explores the challenges and advantages of building such a village in Canada and Ind...
0Compassion For Donald
2019-08-27 •
The 2019 Canadian federal election is over and the author expresses disappointment in the political climate. The author compares the political environment in India to that of Canada and discusses the influence of media and enterta...
0I started meditating... now what?
2019-08-20 •
The text is a detailed response to a friend's query about starting a meditation practice. It covers the use of apps, books, and finding a teacher, providing specific recommendations and advice.
0Silent Spaces
2019-02-28 •
The text discusses the concept of silent spaces and the importance of silence in a world filled with noise. It explores the idea of universal spaces and silent spaces, and how they are often not the same. The author shares persona...
0Universal Spaces
2019-02-04 •
The text discusses the concept of Universal Spaces, using examples such as the Theosophical Society Gardens and the Ulsoor Lake Pathway in Bangalore. It explains that Universal Spaces are open to everyone and are used for their in...
0India Has A Three-Body Problem
2019-01-31 •
The text discusses the author's experience living in India and the country's garbage management problem. It highlights the mental and environmental toll of living in a place with poor waste management and compares India's situatio...
0How To Disconnect
2019-01-15 •
The text discusses the impact of the internet and digital addiction on individuals, particularly millennials. It addresses the need for concrete solutions to manage digital addiction and emphasizes the importance of explicit inten...
The text discusses the impact of smoking marijuana on meditation practice. The author shares personal experiences and insights on the topic, highlighting the negative effects of marijuana on concentration and meditation. The essay...
The text discusses the need for society to apply critical thinking to the future of software, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable and global tools that respect future arcs of aggreg...
The article is a response to Steve Yegge's article about joining Grab. The author expresses concerns about Yegge's portrayal of Asia and the technology market. He criticizes the use of violent language and the lack of consideratio...
0The Toxic Notification Bubble
2018-12-22 •
The text discusses the shift from substance abuse to digital abuse, particularly focusing on the addictive nature of social media and the internet. It explores the challenges of raising children in a digital age and the impact of ...