Please don’t eat the toner

Darwin Awards: A tongue-in-cheek honor that recognizes individuals who supposedly protect our gene pool by dying as a result of their own idiotic actions.

I didn't know what to write about today. I've been focused on developing course material, and avoiding distractions.

Then I had to run an errand. At the same time I bought some beetroot and chickpea fritters at a branch of a large supermarket chain. They were proudly labelled "Live plant based".

I haven't tried them yet, but I'm confused by the label. The beetroots were picked before being prepared, so technically the fritters are "dead plant" based. But why the need for the word "live" in the first place? Is there a risk of food made from fake plants?

Stupid warnings

Not so long ago there was a post on LinkedIn with the caption "We're doomed...". The post was a photo of a pizza box that had the printed warning "[Open box before eating pizza.]".

As always, the internet is a unending source of more examples like this. Here are some I found that make me wonder if the human race will survive:

• On a wheelbarrow: Not intended for highway use.
• On a baby stroller: Remove child before folding.
• On a carpenter's electric drill: Not intended for use as a dental drill.
• On a takeout coffee cup: Avoid pouring on crotch area.
• On dog medication: May cause drowsiness. Use care when operating a car.
• On a scooter: This product moves when used.
• On a hairdryer: Do not use while sleeping.
• On a brass fishing hook: Harmful if swallowed.
• On a cartridge for a laser printer: Do not eat toner.

I checked our printer cartridges, but HP and Samsung don't care if I eat the toner.

Are we getting dumber?

Do we really need anti-stupid labels?

The Flynn effect refers to the general increase in IQ during the 20th century, based on standard test scores. But recent research across some Western countries showed a reversal: IQ is decreasing.

There's lots of debate about the results and the causes. One Norwegian study claims that the decrease in IQ is environmental, rather than genetic. That's good news, because it means we can control and change it.

Deep work

I've written about training our brains to focus before.

Now there's even a buzz word for focusing. It's called "deep work", based on a book of the same title by Cal Newport.

According to the book blurb, deep work is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task. It allows you to quickly master complicated information and produce better results in less time.
The blurb even describes deep work as a new kind of super power.

I haven't read the book, but I can't argue with the principle. It's just sad that we need a buzz word to remind us about it.

And now I have distracted you from the work you should be doing. Please share your thoughts, and then go try some deep work. And don't eat the toner.