When we’re talking about data, we’re really talking about code—the languages that structure every aspect of our digital lives. But can code itself be interesting? Or even beautiful? Vikram Chandra grew up in India and always wanted to be a novelist, but when he came to the United States, he discovered computers—going from a weekend tinkerer to a consultant who paid his way through grad school. He spoke with Steve Paulson on what makes good writing, and what makes good code.
Intelligent. Optimistic. Curious.
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Do atheists have any use for religion? Philosopher Alain de Botton says atheists can learn religious traditions tap into various emotional needs, from our yearning for community to our desire to create sacred spaces.
Andrea Olsen tells Steve Paulson how to extend his awareness of the body’s sensory abilities, and does an excerpt from a performance art piece on body awareness.
Adam Gopnik reads excerpts from his book “Paris to the Moon,” set to music by the band Paris Combo.
Landscape architect Anne Whiston Spirn talks about Frederick Law Olmsted’s revolutionary plan to use the processes of nature to clean up human damage to the environment.
Sometimes a new neighbor can be like a surprise package from Fate.
How do we prevent baby boomers from bankrupting Social Security? Satirist Christopher Buckley has an idea - get the boomers to commit voluntary suicide...for tax incentives.
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