Here's what caught my attention in January 2026:
Unique Artistic Expression
Artist Jenn shares her captivating process of capturing her apartment spaces in digital art form. Her email template is a must-have for any aspiring artist!
Negative Social Contagion
Justis makes a compelling argument that saying "everything's expensive" can have far-reaching consequences, leading to "facially insane political choices." I'm curious about the literature on this topic – does saying such things indeed lead to these outcomes?
Sand Hill Road: A Hotspot for Venture Capital Firms
This road is notable for its high concentration of venture capital firms. With nearly every top Silicon Valley company having received early funding from firms on this road, it's no wonder Sand Hill Road has become a metonym for the industry.
Unconventional Warfare Tactics
The CIA taught Ukraine how to target Putin's Achilles' heel – a coupler device so difficult to replace that facilities might remain shut for weeks. This reveals the creative strategies used in modern warfare.
The McUltra: A Ridiculous Road Trip
One enthusiast embarked on an impressive 500-kilometer journey around a McDonald's drivethru, showcasing the power of human determination and absurdity.
Pentagon Pizza Theory: Fact or Fiction?
RBA analyzed Twitter data and backtested it against major military actions, finding that... well, Betteridge can answer that for you!
The Thoughtful Gesture Industrial Complex
CHH argues that we should stop upping the ante on gift-giving, lest reasonable people among us feel forced into extravagant gestures. I agree – what happened to simple gift giving?
Undercover Operations: A Wilderness Survival Trainer's Story
A wilderness survival trainer spent years undercover, climbing the ranks of right-wing militias. He didn't reveal his true identity to police or friends.
Third Rail (Politics): The Untouchable Issue
The term "third rail" refers to any issue so controversial that politicians dare not broach the subject, fearing political backlash.
US Data Incidence Calculator: A Reality Check for Your Standards
This tool allows you to see just how realistic your standards are – or compliment your partner on being 1 in a number!
Travel Visa Requirements: The Unintended Consequences
Researchers investigated the deterrent effect of travel visa requirements, finding that a one standard deviation more severe regime results in a 30% decrease in inbound travel.
Alternative Lifestyle Choices: A Recipe for Success (Maybe)
This article highlights alternative lifestyle choices, but cautions that they only work for those on the fringes. Examples include polyamory, drugs, and gender transition.
The Champagne Toasting Problem: A Puzzling Conundrum
Niplav attempts to find the most efficient way to toast champagne in as few moves as possible.
The Importance of Diversity in AI Development
Hotz argues that open-source AGI is the only way forward, lest big tech owners integrate their personal values and people don't like it.