Collapse OS is a minimal, highly adaptable operating system designed for a post-apocalyptic scenario where global supply chains have broken down. It aims to be runnable on minimal and easily scavenged hardware, using widely available Z80 processors. Its functionality focuses on essential tasks like bootstrapping other, more complex systems, creating and running simple programs, and interfacing with rudimentary hardware like text terminals and floppy drives. The project anticipates a future where readily available modern hardware and software are no longer accessible, and seeks to provide a digital life raft by relying on robust, easily reproduced technologies.
New research on the Permian-Triassic extinction, Earth's most severe, reveals that even amidst widespread devastation, some marine ecosystems persisted. By analyzing brachiopod fossils from South China, scientists found evidence of thriving communities in shallow, oxygen-rich waters near land. These "oases" likely benefited from upwelling nutrients and offered refuge from the harsh ocean conditions that caused the extinction. This discovery suggests that even during catastrophic events, pockets of life can endure, offering insights into resilience and recovery.
HN commenters discuss the Permian extinction's "oases," expressing skepticism about the study's conclusions. Some doubt the validity of characterizing small areas with slightly less devastation as "oases" during such widespread destruction. Others point out the limitations of interpreting highly localized data from millions of years ago, suggesting alternative explanations like localized geological factors or simple chance. Several commenters question the article's framing, finding it overly optimistic and potentially misleading about the severity of the Permian extinction event. A few highlight the broader implications for understanding current biodiversity loss and climate change, arguing that the study's message—that even in extreme events, pockets of survival exist—offers little comfort or practical guidance for today's conservation efforts.
In December 1980, 19-year-old Jean Hilliard nearly froze to death after her car slid off the road in rural Minnesota. Stranded in subzero temperatures, she walked two miles to a friend's house, collapsing just feet from the door. Discovered six hours later, Hilliard was completely rigid, her skin ice-cold and her eyes fixed and unblinking. Doctors initially feared she was dead, but after hours of gradual rewarming at the hospital, she miraculously revived with minimal lasting damage, baffling medical professionals and becoming a testament to the resilience of the human body.
HN commenters generally express amazement at Jean Hilliard's survival after being frozen solid. Several question the specifics of how she froze and thawed, wondering about the exact temperature, duration of exposure, and the thawing process. Some speculate about the role of alcohol in her survival, referencing its antifreeze properties, while others caution against assuming it played a positive role. A few users share anecdotes of other surprising cold-weather survival stories, including one about a frozen cat revived with warm water. Some commenters also discuss the article's writing style, with one pointing out the effective use of short sentences to build tension. Several express gratitude for the "good news" story amid otherwise bleak headlines.
In "The Year I Didn't Survive," Bess Stillman reflects on a year marked not by death, but by the profound emotional toll of multiple, overlapping hardships. A difficult pregnancy coincided with the loss of her father, forcing her to confront grief while navigating the physical and mental challenges of carrying and delivering a child. This period was further complicated by the pressures of work, financial strain, and a pervasive sense of isolation, leaving her feeling depleted and struggling to simply function. The essay explores the disconnect between outward appearances and internal struggles, highlighting how even seemingly "successful" periods can be defined by immense personal difficulty and the quiet battle for survival.
HN commenters largely focused on the author's experience with the US healthcare system. Several expressed sympathy and shared similar stories of navigating complex medical billing and insurance processes, echoing the author's frustration with opaque charges and difficulty getting clear answers. Some questioned the lack of itemized bills and discussed the challenges of advocating for oneself within the system. Others debated the role of government regulation and potential solutions, including single-payer healthcare. A few commenters also questioned the author's choices and approach, suggesting more proactive communication with providers or seeking second opinions could have helped. Some offered practical advice for navigating medical billing disputes.
During the 900-day siege of Leningrad in World War II, the Vavilov Institute, home to a vast collection of seeds and plant material, became a poignant symbol of resistance and sacrifice. Facing starvation, the scientists working there protected the invaluable collection, even choosing to die of hunger rather than consume the edible seeds and tubers under their care. This act of extraordinary dedication preserved crucial biodiversity for future generations, highlighting the enduring power of scientific commitment amidst unimaginable hardship. The article explores this story, emphasizing the difficult ethical decisions faced by the scientists and the lasting legacy of Nikolai Vavilov, the Institute's founder who perished in a Stalinist prison.
HN commenters largely focused on the astounding dedication of Vavilov and his team of scientists. Several highlighted the irony of researchers starving to death amidst a seed bank containing the potential to alleviate global hunger. Some debated the practicality of seed saving in a besieged city, questioning if distributing the food would have been a better short-term solution. Others drew parallels to contemporary seed banks like the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity. A few comments offered additional historical context about Lysenko and his detrimental impact on Soviet agriculture, or about other sieges where similar acts of sacrifice occurred. Several commenters expressed gratitude for the article, finding it both informative and moving.
"Signs of Life in a Desert of Death" explores the unexpected cultural vibrancy found in the Negev desert, specifically focusing on the Bedouin town of Rahat. Despite facing systemic discrimination and marginalization from Israeli society, Rahat's residents exhibit a powerful resilience and forge a distinct identity. The piece highlights the community's dynamic internal life, exemplified by its thriving poetry scene, which provides a platform for social commentary and self-expression. This cultural richness challenges the common perception of the desert as barren and lifeless, revealing a community teeming with creativity and determination in the face of adversity.
Hacker News users generally found the Noema Magazine article thought-provoking, albeit somewhat meandering and lacking a clear thesis. Several commenters appreciated the author's exploration of death and meaning-making in a secular world, while others criticized the piece for being overly abstract and lacking concrete examples. Some questioned the framing of death as a "desert" and suggested alternative metaphors. A compelling point of discussion emerged around the idea of finding meaning in the face of mortality, with some arguing for embracing the finite nature of life and others suggesting that the search for meaning is inherently human. The concept of "death positivity" also sparked debate, with some commenters endorsing its principles and others finding it to be potentially morbid or unhelpful.
In the chaotic final days of the Vietnam War, South Vietnamese Air Force Major Buang-Ly loaded his wife, five children, and his mother onto a two-seat Cessna O-1 Bird Dog. Knowing Saigon was about to fall to the North Vietnamese, he desperately searched for the USS Midway. Locating the carrier, he dropped a note pleading for a clear deck and then skillfully landed the overloaded plane, a feat practically unheard of for such a small aircraft on a moving carrier. His daring act saved his family, and though the plane was pushed overboard to make room for other escaping helicopters, Ly's bravery became a symbol of resilience and desperation amidst the war's end.
HN commenters largely focused on the incredible feat of landing a Cessna O-1 on the USS Midway's deck, highlighting the pilot's skill and bravery given the plane's lack of tailhook and the small landing area. Some questioned the historical accuracy of the number of people onboard, citing conflicting accounts. Others discussed the chaos of the fall of Saigon and the desperation of refugees fleeing the communist regime, with some expressing sympathy for the pilot's plight while others debated the US's role in the Vietnam War and its aftermath. A few commenters shared personal anecdotes related to the evacuation or their own experiences with the O-1 aircraft, adding a personal dimension to the historical discussion. The logistics of getting the family off the carrier and the fate of the plane were also points of interest.
Divers trapped aboard a burning Red Sea liveaboard dive boat for 35 hours recounted harrowing escapes. Some jumped from the upper decks into the darkness, while others waited for rescue boats, navigating through smoke and flames. The fire, believed to have started in the engine room, rapidly engulfed the Hurricane dive boat, forcing passengers and crew to abandon ship with little warning. While all 55 passengers and crew survived, some suffered burns and other injuries. Egyptian authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
HN commenters discuss the harrowing experience of the divers, with several focusing on the psychological impact of being trapped in the dark for so long. Some question the decision-making of the dive operator, particularly the lack of readily available emergency communication and the delay in rescue efforts. Others praise the divers' resilience and resourcefulness in escaping the sinking boat, highlighting the importance of dive training and maintaining composure in emergencies. A few commenters share personal anecdotes of similar close calls while diving, emphasizing the inherent risks involved in the activity. The discussion also touches on the potential legal ramifications for the dive operator and the need for stricter safety regulations in the diving industry.
Summary of Comments ( 59 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43482705
Hacker News users discussing Collapse OS express skepticism about its practicality and usefulness. Many question the likelihood of a societal collapse severe enough to render existing technology useless, while others point out the difficulty of bootstrapping complex technology from salvaged parts in a post-apocalyptic scenario. Some find the project interesting as a thought experiment or a hobby, but doubt its real-world applicability. A few commenters express concerns about the project's potential to attract a "doomer" mentality. The overall sentiment is one of cautious curiosity mixed with significant doubt about the project's premise and viability.
The Hacker News post titled "Collapse OS" with the ID 43482705 sparked a discussion with a variety of viewpoints on the project and its premise.
Several commenters expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a complete societal collapse severe enough to warrant such a specialized operating system. They questioned the practicality and usefulness of Collapse OS in such a scenario, suggesting that focusing on more immediate and probable challenges might be a better use of resources. The idea of maintaining complex technology like a Z80-based system in a true collapse scenario was also met with skepticism. Concerns were raised about the availability of compatible hardware and the ability to manufacture or repair it without existing industrial infrastructure.
Others discussed the more technical aspects of the project. The choice of the Z80 processor was a frequent topic, with some commenters questioning its suitability compared to other potentially more accessible and powerful platforms like the 6502. Discussions around the feasibility of bootstrapping a technological society from scratch using salvaged parts and limited resources also emerged. Some suggested that focusing on simpler, more robust technologies might be more appropriate for a post-collapse environment.
Some commenters, while not necessarily endorsing the premise of total collapse, expressed interest in the project from a hobbyist or educational perspective. They viewed Collapse OS as an intriguing experiment in minimalist computing and a potential platform for learning about low-level programming and hardware interaction.
A few commenters engaged with the philosophical implications of preparing for societal collapse, touching on themes of resilience, self-sufficiency, and the potential dangers of focusing on worst-case scenarios.
While acknowledging the potentially niche nature of the project, some commenters appreciated the creator's effort and vision, viewing Collapse OS as a thought-provoking exploration of alternative technological pathways.
A recurring theme throughout the comments was the importance of community and collaboration in any post-collapse scenario, with several commenters emphasizing the limitations of purely technological solutions and the need for social structures and human connection.