Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

The Wrong Bird in Charlie's Angels: A 20-Year Ornithological Mystery

2025-05-23

This article details the author's deep dive into a bird-related error in the movie Charlie's Angels. A pivotal scene uses the wrong bird species, appearance, and sound. Through interviews with the screenwriter, animal trainer, sound editor, and director, the author unravels the reasons behind the mistake: from the initial accurate bird selection in the script to later sound modifications to match the actor's performance, and multiple factors including legal regulations and shooting conditions. Ultimately, using professional bird sound identification software and expert assistance, the author successfully identifies the bird sound as originating from a thick-billed fox sparrow from Oregon. The story showcases the complex interplay of various factors in filmmaking, and the balance between pursuing perfection and compromising with reality.

(slate.com)

Misc

AI Interviewers: The Cold Algorithm Kills Enthusiasm?

2025-05-18

A growing number of job seekers are encountering AI interviewers, a technology aimed at improving efficiency that has sparked controversy. AI interviews lack warmth; mechanical questioning and feedback leave applicants frustrated, with AI glitches even causing interviews to break down. While some companies believe AI can screen more candidates at lower costs, many argue AI interviews fail to assess applicants' personalities and potential, feeling dehumanizing. The use of AI in HR raises questions about the balance between efficiency and humanity.

(slate.com)

Tech AI recruiting job interview experience

AI Robot: Fairy Tale vs. Reality

2025-04-21

This article contrasts the fictional AI robot 'Robot' from Annalee Newitz's story with the real-world clumsy CIMON, exploring the limitations of current AI. Robot, capable of independent learning and exceeding its programming, showcases the potential of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). In contrast, CIMON's limited Artificial Narrow Intelligence (ANI) reveals its rigid nature. The author points out that current AI technology largely remains in the ANI stage, vulnerable to algorithmic bias and unable to adapt to complex situations as Robot does. While machine learning has made strides in language processing and image recognition, achieving AGI remains a distant goal. The author urges caution against over-reliance on biased training data and emphasizes the importance of self-learning and feedback mechanisms in AI development. Strive for Robot, plan for CIMON.

(slate.com)

AI

The Secret of Elite Sales: It's Not Skill, It's Emotional Manipulation

2025-01-05

The author recounts three encounters with elite salespeople: a con artist in an Iowa jail, a top performer in a telemarketing call center, and a master street beggar. The author discovers that top sales aren't about skill, but about manipulating customer emotions. They create demand with their words, skillfully navigating rejection to achieve sales targets. The author's personal experience reveals the brutal reality of the sales industry and its impact on individuals and society. The article explores the evolution of sales from a respected profession to a pervasive force shaping modern life, where everyone is constantly selling themselves.

(slate.com)

Startup sales techniques emotional manipulation psychology

Bogotá's Ciclovía: A 50-Year Legacy of Open Streets

2024-12-22

Bogotá's Ciclovía, a weekly program closing 75 miles of streets to cars for seven hours, celebrated its 50th anniversary. Born from a 1974 protest against traffic and pollution, Ciclovía has become a beloved tradition, drawing over 1.5 million people each Sunday. Its success has inspired over 400 cities worldwide to adopt similar programs. Ciclovía is more than just a recreational event; it's a testament to community building, improved public health, and a unique solution to urban challenges. The program's longevity and impact highlight its surprising power to foster social cohesion, promote equality, and even resolve political conflicts, demonstrating the potential for transformative urban interventions.

(slate.com)

Misc sustainable transport community engagement