Stories with Tag Meeting

• When Jorge Luis Borges met one of the founders of AI

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  Posted: 2025-04-02 17:30:08

  Verbose tl;dr

  In 1964, Argentinian writer Jorge Luis Borges met Marvin Minsky, a pioneer of artificial intelligence, at a symposium. Borges, initially skeptical and even dismissive of the field, viewing machines as incapable of true creativity, engaged in a lively debate with Minsky. This encounter exposed a clash between Borges's humanistic, literary perspective, rooted in symbolism and metaphor, and Minsky's scientific, computational approach. While Borges saw literature as inherently human, Minsky believed machines could eventually replicate and even surpass human intellectual abilities, including writing. The meeting highlighted fundamental differences in how they viewed the nature of intelligence, consciousness, and creativity.

  In a fascinating intersection of literary brilliance and burgeoning technological innovation, the renowned Argentinian author Jorge Luis Borges encountered Marvin Minsky, a pioneering figure in the field of artificial intelligence, during a visit to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the late 1960s. This meeting, meticulously documented in the Substack newsletter "Res Obscura," provides a captivating glimpse into the nascent stages of AI and its potential impact, as perceived by two intellectual giants from seemingly disparate domains.

  Borges, already celebrated for his intricate, labyrinthine narratives exploring themes of infinity, time, and the nature of reality, found himself confronted with a burgeoning technological reality mirroring some of his own literary explorations. Minsky, a key architect of the then-developing field of artificial intelligence, introduced Borges to the rudimentary, yet conceptually profound, AI systems being developed at MIT's Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. These early AI programs, capable of tasks such as playing checkers and solving simple geometric problems, offered a tangible manifestation of the very concepts of intelligence and consciousness that Borges had so eloquently explored in his fiction.

  The encounter, as described in the newsletter, proved to be a complex interplay of fascination and apprehension. Borges, while clearly intrigued by the potential of these nascent technologies, also expressed reservations, pondering the philosophical implications of machines capable of mimicking human thought. His literary works, often grappling with the nature of identity and the blurring lines between reality and illusion, found an unexpected resonance with the emerging possibilities and potential perils presented by artificial intelligence. The prospect of machines possessing intelligence, even in its most rudimentary form, prompted Borges to consider the profound ramifications for humanity, raising questions about the very essence of what it means to be human.

  The newsletter meticulously details the specifics of Borges's visit to MIT, including his interactions with other prominent figures in the AI Lab. It highlights the intellectual exchange between Borges and Minsky, emphasizing the shared fascination with the nature of thought and the intricate workings of the human mind. This historical encounter, bridging the gap between literature and technology, serves as a testament to the enduring power of intellectual curiosity and the ongoing exploration of the fundamental mysteries of consciousness and intelligence, both human and artificial. The narrative underscores the prescience of Borges's literary vision, foreshadowing the very questions and concerns surrounding artificial intelligence that continue to dominate contemporary discourse.

  • Jorge Luis Borges
  • AI
  • artificial intelligence
  • History of AI
  • Literature
  • Cybernetics
  • Warren McCulloch
  • Meeting
  • 20th Century Literature
  • Intellectual History
  • Philosophy
  • Science Fiction
  • Latin American Literature
  • Argentine Literature

  Summary of Comments ( 48 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43559122

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters generally enjoyed the anecdote about Borges' encounter with McCulloch, finding it charming and insightful. Several appreciated the connection drawn between Borges' fictional worlds and the burgeoning field of AI, particularly the discussion of symbolic representation and the limitations of formal systems. Some highlighted Borges' skepticism towards reducing consciousness to mere computation, echoing his literary themes. A few commenters provided additional context about McCulloch's work and personality, while others offered further reading suggestions on related topics like cybernetics and the history of AI. One commenter noted the irony of Borges, known for his love of libraries, being introduced to the future of information processing.

  The Hacker News post titled "When Jorge Luis Borges met one of the founders of AI," linking to an article on Res Obscura about Borges' encounter with Marvin Minsky, generated a moderate amount of discussion with 17 comments. Several commenters focused on the philosophical implications of Borges' fiction and its relevance to AI.

  One commenter highlighted the cyclical nature of intellectual history, pointing out how Borges' work, though predating modern AI, explores themes now central to the field. They noted the irony of Borges, a writer fascinated by infinite libraries and labyrinths, influencing the development of a technology now grappling with similar concepts of vast data and complex systems. This commenter sees a beautiful, albeit potentially unsettling, circularity in how literature anticipates and shapes scientific pursuits.

  Another commenter explored the intersection of Borges' literary devices, like the "Aleph," and the potential of AI. They suggested that Borges' fictional constructs, which represent totality and infinite information, might serve as thought experiments for understanding the implications of increasingly powerful AI. They wondered if the challenges and paradoxes Borges explored through these devices could offer insights into the limitations and dangers of pursuing unbounded knowledge and computational power.

  A third commenter delved deeper into Borges' specific concerns, suggesting his skepticism toward AI wasn't about technological limitations, but rather the inherent human limitations in interpreting vast amounts of information. They argued that Borges foresaw the issue of information overload and the difficulty of extracting meaning from an overwhelming deluge of data, a problem that remains central to AI research today.

  Several other comments were shorter and offered ancillary observations. Some mentioned other science fiction authors who explored similar themes, while others simply expressed appreciation for the article and the connection it drew between Borges and AI. One commenter briefly mentioned Borges' story "The Library of Babel" as a direct influence on the field of information retrieval.

  Overall, the comments reflect an appreciation for Borges' foresight and the continued relevance of his work in the age of AI. The discussion centered around the philosophical and epistemological challenges posed by both Borges' fiction and the advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly regarding the nature of knowledge, information, and human understanding.

• Zelensky leaves White House after angry meeting

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  Posted: 2025-02-28 18:49:46

  Verbose tl;dr

  Reports indicate a tense meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Joe Biden at the White House. While both leaders publicly emphasized the strong partnership between their countries and continued US support for Ukraine against Russia, disagreements emerged regarding Ukraine's NATO membership timeline and the perceived pace of military aid deliveries. Zelenskyy, seemingly frustrated with the lack of a concrete NATO accession roadmap, expressed his disappointment, while Biden reiterated US commitment to supporting Ukraine's defensive needs but stopped short of offering immediate NATO membership. The meeting concluded with a joint press conference, but the underlying tension suggests ongoing differences in how both nations envision the path forward for Ukraine.

  Following a whirlwind visit to Washington D.C., Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky departed the White House amidst reports of a tense and potentially strained meeting with President Joe Biden. While the publicly released statements and photo opportunities projected an image of solidarity and continued U.S. support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia, whispers of underlying friction have begun to circulate within the corridors of power.

  The crux of the apparent discord seems to stem from differing perspectives on the trajectory of the conflict and the necessary steps to achieve a resolution. While President Zelensky reiterated his urgent appeals for increased military aid, including more advanced weaponry and faster delivery systems, to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities and potentially launch a counteroffensive, the Biden administration appears to be proceeding with a more cautious approach, meticulously calibrating its assistance to avoid escalating the conflict and potentially provoking a broader confrontation with Russia.

  This divergence in strategic outlook reportedly led to a frank and, at times, heated exchange between the two leaders. While both sides publicly affirmed their commitment to the shared goal of a free and sovereign Ukraine, the underlying tension regarding the pace and scope of military aid suggests a growing chasm in their preferred methodologies. The specific details of the disagreement remain shrouded in a degree of ambiguity, as official statements have carefully avoided explicit acknowledgment of any friction. However, the perceived curtness of the visit, shorter than anticipated by some observers, and the absence of the effusive pronouncements that typically characterize such high-profile diplomatic encounters, lend credence to the narratives of a less-than-harmonious meeting.

  President Zelensky's subsequent departure from the White House, therefore, carried an air of unresolved tension. While the outward display maintained a veneer of diplomatic decorum, the underlying narrative suggests a complex and potentially evolving dynamic in the crucial relationship between the United States and Ukraine, one fraught with the challenges of navigating a precarious geopolitical landscape. The long-term ramifications of this perceived rift remain to be seen, but it undoubtedly introduces a new layer of complexity to the ongoing international efforts to address the Ukrainian conflict.

  • Zelensky
  • White House
  • US
  • Ukraine
  • Diplomacy
  • foreign policy
  • international relations
  • Politics
  • Visit
  • Meeting

  Summary of Comments ( 1957 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43208973

  Verbose tl;dr

  The Hacker News comments express significant skepticism about the BBC's claim of an "angry" meeting between Zelensky and Biden. Several commenters point out the lack of credible sourcing for this characterization and suggest it's likely a misrepresentation or exaggeration by the BBC. Some speculate the BBC is trying to create a sensationalized narrative. A few users note the strategic importance of maintaining a strong public image of unity between the US and Ukraine, regardless of any private disagreements. The dominant sentiment is that the "angry meeting" narrative is likely inaccurate and possibly even harmful to the ongoing support for Ukraine. A few commenters also point out that the BBC's live blog is known for quickly publishing updates that may later be corrected or amended, adding further doubt to the initial claim.

  The Hacker News post titled "Zelensky leaves White House after angry meeting" (linking to a BBC live news article) has several comments discussing the nuances of the situation, rather than taking the headline at face value. No one seems to accept the premise of an "angry meeting" outright. Instead, they analyze the potential political motivations and interpretations of the reported events.

  Several commenters point out that the BBC's reporting, and thus the Hacker News title, seems to be based on a single source: a tweet from a Ukrainian journalist. They express skepticism about taking this single, unsourced tweet as confirmation of an angry meeting. Some suggest the journalist might be pushing a specific narrative, possibly to put pressure on the US or to bolster Ukrainian support. Others highlight the lack of corroboration from other news outlets, particularly American ones, which would likely have access to information about the meeting.

  A recurring theme is the complex relationship between Ukraine and the US. Commenters acknowledge the immense pressure Zelensky is under and the difficult position he's in, constantly needing to secure more aid and support. Some suggest that what might be interpreted as "anger" could simply be Zelensky's frustration and desperation at the ongoing war and the need for continued assistance. Others posit that it could be a calculated political tactic, designed to elicit a stronger response from the US government and public.

  The possibility of a deliberate leak is also discussed. Some commenters speculate that Zelensky or someone in his administration might have intentionally leaked information about the meeting's supposed tension to apply pressure on the US. This theory suggests that the "anger" might be exaggerated or even fabricated for strategic purposes.

  Finally, some comments focus on the broader media landscape and the potential for misinterpretation. They caution against taking headlines at face value and emphasize the importance of critical thinking when consuming news, particularly in the context of an ongoing conflict where information can be weaponized. The general sentiment seems to be one of cautious skepticism towards the initial report, with a preference for waiting for more information and diverse sourcing before drawing conclusions.

• I Met Paul Graham Once

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  Posted: 2025-01-20 11:20:02

  Verbose tl;dr

  The author recounts a brief, somewhat awkward encounter with Paul Graham at a coffee shop. They nervously approached Graham, introduced themselves as a fan of Hacker News, and mentioned their own startup idea. Graham responded politely but curtly, asking about the idea. After a mumbled explanation, Graham offered a generic piece of advice about focusing on users, then disengaged to rejoin his companions. The author was left feeling slightly deflated, realizing their pitch was underdeveloped and the interaction ultimately uneventful, despite the initial excitement of meeting a revered figure.

  In a concise yet evocative narrative entitled "I Met PG Once," the author recounts a singular, seemingly inconsequential encounter with Paul Graham, the influential figurehead of the startup accelerator Y Combinator. The anecdote, presented with an almost self-deprecating humility, details a fleeting interaction during a Y Combinator alumni event. The author, attending this prestigious gathering, found themselves in the same spatiotemporal vicinity as Graham, a prominent individual whose writings and pronouncements on startups hold considerable sway within the tech industry.

  The narrative unfolds with a palpable sense of the author's internal conflict. While harboring an admiration, perhaps even reverence, for Graham's intellect and accomplishments, the author grapples with the social awkwardness and perceived inadequacy that often accompanies interactions with highly esteemed figures. This internal struggle manifests in the author's conscious decision to refrain from engaging Graham in conversation.

  Rather than approaching Graham with inquiries about startup strategies or seeking validation for their own entrepreneurial pursuits, the author opts for a detached observation. They note Graham's engagement in discourse with another attendee, seemingly content to be a peripheral witness to the interaction. The author meticulously details the observation of Graham holding a plate laden with sustenance, specifically mentioning chicken wings, painting a vivid picture of the mundane yet somehow significant moment. This meticulous detail imbues the narrative with an air of authenticity, further emphasizing the author's almost anthropological observation of the scene.

  The narrative concludes with a reflection on the missed opportunity for connection, tinged with a subtle blend of regret and self-acceptance. Despite the brevity and superficiality of the encounter, the author acknowledges the lasting impression left by the mere proximity to this influential figure. The encounter, though lacking in substantive exchange, serves as a personal memento, a brief intersection of paths within the dynamic and interconnected world of technology and entrepreneurship. The piece ultimately leaves the reader with a lingering sense of the understated significance that seemingly trivial encounters can hold, especially within the rarified atmosphere surrounding individuals like Paul Graham.

  • Paul Graham
  • Y Combinator
  • startup
  • Venture Capital
  • Entrepreneur
  • Meeting
  • Personal Story
  • Tech
  • Silicon Valley
  • essay
  • Blogging

  Summary of Comments ( 432 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42767507

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters largely appreciated the author's simple, unpretentious anecdote about meeting Paul Graham. Several noted the positive, down-to-earth impression Graham made, reinforcing his public persona. Some discussed Graham's influence and impact on the startup world, with one commenter sharing a similar experience of a brief but memorable interaction. A few comments questioned the significance of such a short encounter, while others found it relatable and heartwarming. The overall sentiment leaned towards finding the story charming and a pleasant reminder of the human side of even highly successful figures.

  The Hacker News post "I Met Paul Graham Once" (linking to an article recounting a brief encounter with Paul Graham) has generated a moderate number of comments, mostly focusing on the author's perceived awkwardness in the interaction, Paul Graham's personality, and the nature of social interactions with well-known figures.

  Several commenters empathized with the author's nervous reaction, suggesting that meeting someone as influential as Paul Graham can be intimidating, leading to fumbled conversations. They pointed out that it's easy to overthink such interactions, especially when meeting someone you admire. One commenter even shared a similar experience of an awkward encounter with a famous individual, highlighting the commonality of such situations.

  Others discussed Paul Graham's demeanor, with some noting his reputation for being quiet and introverted. They suggested that his response (or lack thereof) might not have been intended as dismissive, but rather a reflection of his personality. Some speculated that Graham might be more comfortable in written communication than in spontaneous social interactions.

  A few comments focused on the author's apparent expectation of a more substantial interaction. They argued that a brief, polite acknowledgment from a busy person like Paul Graham should be considered sufficient and that expecting more might be unrealistic.

  Some commenters also questioned the significance of the encounter, wondering why the author felt compelled to share this brief anecdote. They posited that the story might be more about the author's own feelings about meeting someone famous rather than anything substantial about Paul Graham himself.

  Finally, a small thread developed around the topic of social skills and how to navigate interactions with prominent figures, offering advice on how to make a positive impression without being overly intrusive.

  Overall, the comments paint a picture of a relatable experience of awkwardness and the various ways people interpret social interactions with well-known individuals. While some commenters criticized the author's perspective, many offered empathetic understanding, sparking a discussion on social dynamics and the pressures of meeting someone you admire.