128. Are Our Tools Becoming Part of Us? | People I (Mostly) Admire

Risk Taking

In the realm of professional and personal growth, Steven Levitt emphasizes the importance of embracing risk. He argues that taking calculated risks can lead to significant rewards, especially when the potential positive outcomes can be sustained over time, while negative outcomes can be quickly abandoned 1. This approach is particularly relevant in academia, where Levitt advises PhD students to pursue ambitious projects that could lead to top-tier opportunities 2.

You always want to invite in risk in settings where when the good outcome happens, you can ride it for a really long time, and when the bad outcome happens, you can cut bait and go do something different.

--- Steven Levitt

This mindset encourages individuals to seek out scenarios where risk can be a strategic ally, rather than a deterrent.

   

Innovation

Navigating the balance between innovation and regulation is a complex task, as Blaise Agüera y Arcas explains. He acknowledges the role of patents in fostering innovation but warns against their potential to stifle creativity when they become barriers 3. Blaise's work at Google, particularly in federated learning, exemplifies his commitment to open-source methodologies that enhance transparency and trust 4.

Companies are these complicated organic structures. And even at Microsoft, Bill was often frustrated by the company not acting on a bunch of stuff that he thought was obvious and should happen.

--- Blaise Agüera y Arcas

His experiences highlight the challenges and opportunities within corporate environments to drive innovation while navigating regulatory landscapes.