Wednesday, August 09, 2017

Guest Post: The Real Problem Isn't Gender; It's the Modern Media

This guest post by Seth Stephens-Davidowitz was adapted from a comment he wrote on a Facebook post of mine sharing this essay.

While gender in tech is certainly an issue, a lot of the controversy over it is unnecessary. What recently happened with the Google memo is a classic case of Scott Alexander’s Toxoplasma of Rage, one of the most brilliant pieces I have ever read. Read his post. Then read it again.

The stories that go viral are those that maximize anger and foster the most disagreement.

Guy writes a memo with a lot of true statements but an aggressive tone bound to infuriate some people. Within two days, everybody is predictably furious.

My hypothesis is that an overwhelming majority of people actually agree on many of the points of contention--or would agree if they were phrased a little less aggressively, in a tone less likely to create controversy and less likely to go viral.

How many people, for example, agree with the following statement?

"We do not know why CS majors are 80% male. It is possible that, even though millions of women have a passion for computer science, there are, in aggregate, fewer women than men who have this passion. We don't know since computer science is kind of new. And also we don't really understand why female CS majors rose to 40% and then plummeted. Since it is possible that discrimination and stereotypes play a role, we should devote resources to making sure everybody with interest in these high-status jobs has ample opportunity to pursue them. Also, everybody should be judged based on their own interest and aptitude in a job, not how many people of their gender would want that job. Finally, the majority of women in tech--as well as many other high-powered fields--have said they have faced sexism, and we should work really hard to stop that."

This addresses many of the controversies that were raised by the James Damore memo and the responses to it, but is phrased in a way such that few people would find it objectionable. Perhaps we should stop falling for these traps that maximize rage and instead try sober analysis. We may find a surprising amount of consensus.

Lastly, no young person, man or woman, should actually be training for anything--driving cars, teaching kids, diagnosing diseases, or writing programs--because AI will soon do all that for us. ;)

For 352 pages of sober analysis on even more controversial topics, you can check out Seth’s book Everybody Lies.

65 comments:

Pupuk Dasar Tanaman Buncis said...

yeah, we should really really work hard to stop that.

Anonymous said...

I've been thinking how best to start my research paper about problem of gender and growing discrimination in modern society. Thank you for your post and so much important idea that hiding in your title. Really most of the problem it's submission of information in mass media.

Eaten Turner said...

Hello! What an awesome post! It's great that you have shared it with us. B the way, I know how to help you with the writing papers. Here is one cool writing service that can help you even with the writing jessica mitford behind the formaldehyde curtain or other difficult topics. I hope this information was helpful to you.

Snega Bondato said...

Our accounting homework help is the best homework providing company. We believe that our homework plays an important role in the final grades of students. Due to several reasons, students are unable to write accounting homework. Accounting homework requires accounting homework
remarkable knowledge as well as in-depth understanding of the accounting concepts. Students should get our accounting homework help at our company’s website.

Biology, the study of life, can be fascinating and wondrous. However, certain biology topics can sometimes seem incomprehensible. The best way to get a clear understanding of difficult biology concepts is to study them at home, as well as at school. Students should use quality biology homework help resources when studying. Below are some good resources and information to help you answer some of your obilogy homework questions.

MyAssignmentHelp said...

Thank you for sharing this informative post.MyAssignmenthelp.co.uk is giving amway Case Study to students.we are already trusted by thousands of students who struggle to write their academic papers and also by those students who simply want Amway Case Study Help to save their time and make life easy.

belly sons said...

Global Interscope is the best swimming pools designing in Hyderabad where the you can get all the facilities to improve better.

swimming pool contractors in hyderabad, Execution, Equipment Supplies, Services and Lifestyle Products.

Judi online said...

I am really happy to say it’s an interesting post to read. I learn new information from your article, you are doing a great job. Keep it up!
Buy Research Chemical online, Strong effect Stimulant Eutylone , Reliable Cannabinoids shop online, buy 5cl-adb-a warehouse in USA/Europe

Hippie vibe tribe said...

This is a blog to read out for sure. I found you have a really awesome writing style.Its simple and easy to understand.Your blog design is so clean too! Thank you for all the hard work!
5 benefits of dressing well

Veronica Kate said...

I agree with the facts you stated above. You have a beautiful flow with words. For students who are struggling to write their assignments on their own, I suggest they choose the Word Counter service of LiveWebTutors. It is a perfect and affordable platform that helps you to achieve top grades in your academic activities.

Assignment Help Pro said...

Understanding What Is Connotation is straightforward. For appreciating connotations it is important to allude to shading associations. Shadings are associated with at least one feelings. For instance, red tone is associated with aggression, anger or passion.

assignment help said...

The assignment help shop pioneer of providing MBA Assignment Helper for students. We accept all kinds of MBA assignment help requests and having a team of 1000+ professionally experienced people helps us in delivering nothing but quality MBA Assignment Help. The customer-centric approach allows us to take every single customer seriously and we don't believe in the one size fits all approach. Students have different expectations and demands from MBA help and our expert's help in catering to the need of student.

Alice Perrir said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Marko Andreas said...

Anyone studying statistics obviously knows about linear regression models. But when it comes to linear models, I think there are some that I haven't heard of for the last four years that I have been on campus. Recently, I came across this model- linear probability model which I am seeking Statistics Assignment Help on. I do not know much about it. But here is what I want you, a Statistics Homework Help expert to help me with. I would be glad if you can show me how to fit the model in STATA

Arren Toaph said...

Last week I was struggling with a tight deadline and asked Statistics Homework Help experts to help me with my STATA assignment. They did a very great job! Without your help, I wouldn’t have managed to submit the assignment on time. The extra effort and time put by the Statistics Assignment Help expert into this assignment made a difference. Thank you so much!”

Maria Garcia said...


I once hired an expert from your site for C Homework Help. I was pleased with it and I was told that your Python homework help tutors also develop programs outside school. I am not a student but I want a program to use in my office. The program should be able to automatically calculate employee office hours in the office and equate them with the amount payable at the end of the month. You can also provide me with a Java Homework Help expert. They too can develop the program. If needed we can also hire a C++ Homework Help expert. If you think this is possible then let’s interact more so that I can know the charges for your programming homework help. It would be great if there is someone with the knowledge of all programming languages such as a
Programming Coursework Help expert.

Jack Payne said...

This is quite interesting. I am so glad that you have shared this amazing blog post. Men's Quilted Brown Leather Jacket

yanmaneee said...

kobe basketball shoes
curry shoes
lebron shoes
a bathing ape
kobe shoes
goyard handbags
yeezy boost 500
moncler jackets
off-white
yeezy

ebony lorange said...

What an informative blog you have published with us. Liked it. Image Retouching
Photo Editing Helps
Neck Joint
Photoshop Guideline
Clipping Path Tutorial
Drop Shadow Helps
Background Remove
Image Editing
Image Cut Out
Photo Manipulation

Jon Hendo said...

event planning. also created a simplicity market wherein the ability for a provider to manage things behind the scenes is a valuable differentiator and In 2020 also this resulted in planners leaning heavily on their tech providers to fill the gaps and Nearly a third of planners used their event tech provider as their virtual AV/production support. thank you for speaking at our conference and business dinner invitation wording

Unknow said...

Hi. Do you provide math homework help & finance assignment help at your stop? My previous tutors have told a lot about you that your tutors are fabulous. Please let me know what is the process of joining your team and what are the charges required for the same. Do not delay as I need to hurry as soon as possible. In case you are unable to help, recommend a tutor who can provide enough assistance to me. Also, let me know about your statistics homework help.

Devin mark said...


Your Matlab Assignment Help expert's speed was the best for my emergency order. He was a Master's degree holder in software engineering, so I expected the best from him, which he delivered. While I wasn't after an A with the short notice, he delivered it! Amazing! I've been on many Matlab Homework Help platforms but never have I received help from such a guru. I've marked him as my favorite programming assignment helper.

Lebron John said...

Amazon New World is always stimulating the nerves of the players. In any case, prepare enough New World Coins first in case you are in a hurry.

Attached link: https://www.iggm.com/new-world-coins

Linda smith said...

We are the first choice of students for over a decade in order to write your assignments. We give the best quality with 100% plagiarism free content. So get the assignment help services from us.

Lazaro Coley said...

Good posting! Lots of useful information and encouragement, both of which we all need! Forwarding to appreciate your work.
I have a post you can read to learn more about How to Improve your aim In gaming. After spending a few hours researching I came up with this article Butterfly clicking speed that you can read with pleasure.

Lukas Angelika said...

Nakita ko ang isang puna dito ilang linggo na ang nakakaraan tungkol kay Dr Akhere at nagpasya akong makipag-ugnay sa kanya tulad ng itinuro, salamat sa lalaking ito sa pagdala ng kagalakan sa akin tulad ng hinahangad ko. Sinunod ko ang mga tagubilin na ibinigay niya sa iba pa upang maibalik ang aking kasintahan na iniwan ako at ang mga bata sa loob ng 3 taon ngayon, ngunit salamat kay Dr Akhere dahil bumalik sila sa akin ngayon para sa kabutihan at masaya kaming magkasama. mangyaring makipag-ugnay sa kanya para sa tulong din kung may problema sa relasyon sa pamamagitan ng email sa: AKHERETEMPLE@gmail.com o tumawag / whatsapp: +2349057261346. At magpatotoo para sa iyong sarili.









































































Nakita ko ang isang puna dito ilang linggo na ang nakakaraan tungkol kay Dr Akhere at nagpasya akong makipag-ugnay sa kanya tulad ng itinuro, salamat sa lalaking ito sa pagdala ng kagalakan sa akin tulad ng hinahangad ko. Sinunod ko ang mga tagubilin na ibinigay niya sa iba pa upang maibalik ang aking kasintahan na iniwan ako at ang mga bata sa loob ng 3 taon ngayon, ngunit salamat kay Dr Akhere dahil bumalik sila sa akin ngayon para sa kabutihan at masaya kaming magkasama. mangyaring makipag-ugnay sa kanya para sa tulong din kung may problema sa relasyon sa pamamagitan ng email sa: AKHERETEMPLE@gmail.com o tumawag / whatsapp: +2349057261346. At magpatotoo para sa iyong sarili.

Unknown said...

Good post. I have been looking at this blog and am impressed! Very useful information especially the last part. I really care about such information. I have a post you can read to learn more about it Click Counter Test. After spending a few hours researching I came to this article online click counter which you can read with pleasure.

GOSTOPSITE33 said...

Your blog is really great and cool post. it's really awesome and cool post. Its really awesome and good post. Thanks for sharing the nice and cool post. Thanks for sharing the nice and cool post.
섯다

sportstotohot.com said...

Never knew this, regards for letting me know. 스포츠토토

Oms99 said...

Stanozolol Tablet is a man-made steroid that is identical to testosterone, a naturally occurring steroid. Hereditary angioedema, which causes swelling of the face, limbs, genitals, intestinal wall, and throat, is treated with stanozolol. Winstrol 10mg Tablet helps to reduce the intensity and frequency of these episodes. Oms99 will get you stanozolol tablets to your home.

BEST SITE said...

I’d have to talk to you here. Which isn’t something Which I do! I love to reading a post that should get people to think. Also, thank you for allowing me to comment!

야한동영상
대딸방
마사지블루
건전마사지
카지노사이트

html homework help said...

Thank you for writing blog article.

Leo Oliver said...


Our Econometrics Assignment Help is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you with your econometric assignment. The solutions are given in an easy-to-understand step-by-step format. Thousands of students in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other countries have benefited from our Econometrics guidance. We are here to assist you with your Econometrics assignment.

WAMOS said...

"Thank you for the auspicious write-up. It in fact was a amusement account it.
Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?"

무료야설
카지노
오피헌터
스포츠마사지
출장마사지

baccaratsite.biz said...

Hi, this weekend is fastidious designed for me, since this
occasion i am reading this impressive educational piece
of writing here at my home 온라인카지노

Go Rajasthan Travel said...

We at Go Rajasthan Travel work hard to ensure that our visitors have a pleasant and enjoyable experience. By hiring us, You will book your transportation and accommodations for Rajasthan Tour Packages. Not only do we promote healthy travel, but also suit pockets.

Leo Oliver said...

Offering students with Microeconomics Assignment Help means assisting them with duties such as economic cost, basic economics, and market positioning. Microeconomics assignment help is necessary for students to properly study challenges with organization and corporation budgeting and utilisation by writing essential assignments on these challenging themes.

Shira said...

We Global Assignment Expert have a team of thousands of top experts. They are from different backgrounds and subjects. We have hired only the premium and most experienced academic writers who can provide you with assignment writing help services in almost all the subjects. Their immense knowledge and experience make them the best in the industry. Our teams are available in the whole USA, so you don’t need to worry about your location.

Leo Oliver said...


Academics who want assistance with statistics assignments could seek instantly straightaway. Statistics Assignment Help is the most beneficial assistance that any student can have. For every statistics student, they establish the integrated solution. They will undoubtedly be satisfied once they have obtained their solution.

Anonymous said...

As a specialist, individuals will believe your proposals and they will purchase items, administrations and openings that you suggest.
locksmith

Anonymous said...

I’m going to read this. I’ll be sure to come back. Thanks for sharing. and also This article gives the light in which we can observe reality. This is a very nice one and gives information. Thanks for this nice article.
Furniture Upholstery Dubai

ทางเข้าเล่น joker said...

your website is very nice, the article is very enlightening, I wish you continued success.

Unknown said...

Is Goa sea food and calangute restaurants all about fish curry? No way. On a visit to a restaurant like Seafood Junction Goa, you will find many Goanfish dishes, each different from the other.You’ll also find the finest fish here—calamari, prawns, lobsters, crabs, pomfrets, etc. And yes, there’s also the famous Fish Thali in Calangute. Worth a try.

Software Crack Keygen said...

drivermax pro crack
spectrasonics omnisphere crack
metro exodus download
black widow recharged download

Anonymous said...

this pagevisit this page this contact formLearn More newswebpage

BSC Exam Result 2021 said...

Really a very helpful article thanks for sharing and keep on sharing!

Anonymous said...

Take professional expert help for Probability Assignment and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

Anonymous said...

Take professional expert help for Chemistry Assignment and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

Anonymous said...

Take professional expert help for IT Governance Assignment and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

Anonymous said...

Take professional expert help for <a href="https://universalassignment.com/statistical-design-assignment/</a>Statistical Design Assignment and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

Universal Assignment said...

Take professional expert help for Statistical Design Assignment and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

Universal Assignment said...

Take professional expert help for <a href="https://universalassignment.com/statistical-design-assignment/”>Statistical Design Assignment</a> and many more. Best Assignment services in Australia, globally trusted, instant Support, Plag free solution, 100% safe, order now!

sonu said...

You have given very good information. Find out more information about
ivf doctors in andhra pradesh

David Carter said...

¡Guau! ¡Hay tantas cosas buenas en este post! También eres un escritor extraordinario. No puedo esperar a leer más de tus escritos. Además, si desea obtener información sobre los mensajes de texto con código morse, visite el artículo abecedario en codigo morse. El código Morse ha estado en uso durante más de 160 años, más que cualquier otro sistema de codificación eléctrica.

Naturecamp Travels said...

Every person has a soft corner for Shillong and every person wants to experience its beauty at least once, if you also want to visit Shillong without wasting much money then prefer to hire our Shillong Tour Package from Kolkata. Users can also visit Naturecamp Travels to gather knowledge in detail.

KSJWEBSITE said...

check article : Biography Of Boris Johnson
check article : The History Of Birmingham City Football Club's Logo
check article : 5 delicious and delicious Angolan specialties
check article : One Piece: 4 Facts about Kamusari, a Technique That Beats Kid!
check article : Theory: What Will Luffy Do After Becoming the One Piece Pirate King?
check article : The Most Rare Kekkei Genkai Series!
check article : Biography Of Maria Olsen
check article : 5 Facts About One Piece Jaygarcia Saturn

casinositeone.JDS said...


Wow this blog is awesome. Wish to see this much more like this.

casinositeguidecom.JDS said...

Hello, nice to read your all blogs and learned a lot of new knowledge. Thank you!

mttotositecom.JDS said...

I always prefer to read the quality content and this thing I found in you post.

Anonymous said...

Healing Buddha's dedication to professional development keeps them at the forefront of energy healing, delivering top-notch care to clients.
pranic healing

Go Rajasthan Travel said...

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the regal land of Rajasthan with our all-inclusive Rajasthan Tour Package. Immerse yourself in the royal heritage, captivating traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Plan your dream vacation at Go Rajasthan Travel and explore the charm and splendor of Rajasthan through our carefully curated package.

Fajil Hura said...

Unveil the spiritual heart of India with our immersive Varanasi Holiday Packages. Embark on a sacred pilgrimage with the transformative Chardham Tour, visiting holy shrines. Immerse yourself in history and culture through the iconic Golden Triangle India tour, covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Explore India's diverse essence with these incredible journeys.

tom elis said...

YesMovies, launched in the early 2010s, is a popular online platform for streaming movies and TV shows. It boasts a user-friendly interface, offering a vast collection of content that users can search by genre, release year, country, or IMDb rating. However, it operates in a legal gray area, hosting copyrighted material without proper licensing, raising concerns about copyright infringement and piracy. Access to YesMovies may be restricted in some regions due to copyright laws. To enjoy entertainment securely and ethically, it's advisable to explore legal and legitimate streaming alternatives. Yesmovies

Muqqabla Local Shopping said...

Muqqabla shopping app provides the best deals and offers in Bangalore. Download the app ow.

unknow said...

Immerse yourself in Goan culture with our car rental in Mopa airport and Car rental in Thivim Railway Station Explore vibrant markets, delve into local cuisine, and witness the fusion of Indian and Portuguese influences. Dive into cultural immersion – book your thar rent in Goa today and uncover the hidden gems of Margao.

Anonymous said...

Hello, great article! Your ideas are right on modern media. I greatly like your point regarding gender. It's clear you did your research. Keep up the great job! I look forward to reading more from you.
Here is sharing Oracle Customer Care and Billing related stuff that may be helpful to you.
Oracle Customer Care and Billing training