Odds and Ends of History

Odds and Ends of History critically examines current socio-political narratives, technological impacts, and policy decisions with a focus on debunking popular misconceptions. It explores themes like the misalignment between public image and policy impact, the necessity of pragmatic approaches to climate change, and the potential of emerging technologies to reshape societal norms.

Political Commentary Technology Impact and Safety Climate Change and Environmental Policy Media Literacy and Journalism Public Transportation Systems Urban Development and Policy Economic Policy and Innovation

The hottest Substack posts of Odds and Ends of History

And their main takeaways

Britain still isn't moving fast enough

1474 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Infrastructure Government Democracy Transport Policy
  1. Building infrastructure in Britain is taking way too long, with projects like HS2 getting pushed back to 2036 or later. This is frustrating for people who want improvements now.
  2. Despite the government announcing plans to speed things up, the actual timelines for construction are still disheartening. Many projects won't be finished until 2040 or later.
  3. There's a disconnect between politicians making infrastructure decisions and seeing real changes in communities. Voters deserve to see results during their elected leaders' terms.

Why I still believe in HS2

2278 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Infrastructure Transport Policy Economy Public Opinion
  1. HS2 is important for connecting cities quickly and improving transportation. Finishing the railway is seen as essential for the country's future.
  2. Even though the project has faced delays and rising costs, stopping it now would mean losing valuable benefits that HS2 could bring.
  3. Investing in HS2 will help relieve pressure on existing train lines, allowing for more local services and better freight transport, which is crucial for overall infrastructure.

The NIMBYs have learned to use AI 😩 (Odds and Ends #68)

737 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Technology Environment International relations Economic issues
  1. NIMBYs are now using AI to oppose new projects, which could make building more difficult. This shift shows how technology is changing public opposition.
  2. There's a sense that abundance is the key to solving high living costs, suggesting we need more resources and options available for people.
  3. The conflict in Ukraine has transformed warfare, particularly with the use of drones, leading to new tactics and challenges in modern combat.

Matt Goodwin's ideas are a dead end

804 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Right-wing Election Trends Political Commentary
  1. Matt Goodwin's ideas may not lead to productive discussions or solutions. It's important to question whether certain viewpoints are helpful for progress.
  2. Right-wing movements are experiencing a pushback in some areas. People are starting to voice their opposition more openly.
  3. There is a growing need for fresh ideas and perspectives in political discussions. Relying on outdated concepts might hold back meaningful change.

The National Parking Platform is a big, exciting deal and you should know about it

1608 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Transport Infrastructure Data Management
  1. The National Parking Platform (NPP) is a new data system that makes paying for parking easier by allowing any payment app to work with any car park. This means you won't have to download many apps just to park your car.
  2. This platform collects data from all car parks, which helps local authorities manage parking better and reduce traffic by making sure spaces are used efficiently.
  3. The NPP could lead to new ways of thinking about parking, like offering discounts for electric cars or using real-time data to help drivers find available spots before they arrive.
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Five small signs of progress... and what Skegness can teach us about infrastructure

402 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Infrastructure Government Industrial Policy Housing Public Opinion
  1. There are some good signs of progress in infrastructure, like the government's plans for new reservoirs.
  2. Old Oak Common station is making strides in construction, showing that big infrastructure projects can move forward.
  3. Skegness's history highlights the importance of good infrastructure for success and how current issues affect politics.

The NIMBYs strike back

67 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Infrastructure Urban planning Political Advocacy Public Policy
  1. NIMBYs, or 'Not In My Backyard' groups, are causing issues for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in Parliament. They often oppose new developments near their homes, which can hinder progress.
  2. Criticism is directed at major media and environmental organizations like The Guardian and Natural England for their views on housing and development. This shows a clash of opinions on how to manage land use and development needs.
  3. A former Conservative cabinet minister, Sir Simon Clarke, argues that his party must focus on building and development to stay relevant. This highlights the need for political parties to adapt their policies to current societal demands.

Blue Labour is not the answer

938 implied HN points • 15 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Government Political Rhetoric Public Opinion
  1. Meeting tough immigration policies with harsh rhetoric won't solve the problem. It can make things harder for people who just want to start a new life.
  2. Personal stories, like someone having a loved one from a different country, show how immigration impacts lives in real ways. It's not just a political issue.
  3. Instead of competing on strict immigration rules, we need better solutions that understand the human side of migration. Policies should reflect compassion and a global perspective.

NEW EVENT: Helen Lewis tickets now on sale!

268 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Events Media Books Podcasts
  1. Helen Lewis is speaking at an event on July 29th, and tickets are available now. It's a great opportunity to hear from a well-known writer and author.
  2. Lewis is known for her work in The Atlantic and her podcasts, which are popular among many listeners. If you enjoy insightful conversations, this event should be intriguing.
  3. She also has a new book called 'The Genius Myth' that discusses interesting ideas about rebels and rule-breakers. The event will likely dive into themes from her book.

Britain's weird hate for air conditioning

134 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture History Society Politics Housing Urban planning
  1. Britain has a strange dislike for air conditioning, which affects how people stay cool in hot weather. It seems many prefer to tough it out rather than use AC.
  2. There are ongoing delays in UK projects like HS2, which is causing frustration for those hoping for improvements in transport. People are looking for better public transport options, especially buses.
  3. A recent report suggests building more homes and smaller living spaces could help with housing shortages. It also points out that more air conditioning might make these homes more comfortable.

DeepSeek isn't a victory for the AI sceptics

2345 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Computing Innovation Industry Market Trends
  1. DeepSeek, a new AI model from China, is much more efficient than existing models, meaning it can do more with less resources. This could lead to more widespread use of AI technology.
  2. Even if this new model appears better, it doesn't mean demand for computing power will decrease. Instead, it might increase as more uses for AI are discovered.
  3. The release of DeepSeek highlights the growing competition in AI technology, especially between China and the West. This might push companies to invest more in developing even smarter models.

Britain is secretly pro-building stuff

67 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Military Infrastructure Public Opinion
  1. Many people in Britain actually support building new homes, showing a hidden desire for development. It's important to understand public opinion on housing to better address issues in this area.
  2. The planning system in Britain is more complicated and less effective than many think. This dysfunction can make it harder to create new housing and infrastructure.
  3. There's a push for improving the British military's innovation and security. This focus on modernizing defense is linked to overall national prosperity and safety.

Yes, AI really can be used to tackle potholes

2077 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Infrastructure Data Innovation Public Services
  1. AI can help local councils find and fix potholes more efficiently. It uses cameras and algorithms to spot problems without needing workers to stop and inspect manually.
  2. The technology can identify not only potholes but also other issues like broken signs and overgrown vegetation. This means councils can be proactive in road maintenance.
  3. Using AI for road maintenance can save time and resources for councils. This allows them to collect useful data and prioritize repairs better, despite limited budgets.

The government ordering Apple to break its encryption is stupid, counter-productive and unworkable

1340 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Encryption Privacy Cybersecurity Government Policy Tech regulation
  1. The government's demand for Apple to break its encryption just doesn't make sense. It would create a security risk for everyone, not just criminals.
  2. End-to-end encryption is really important for keeping our data safe. If encryption is weakened, it puts everyone at risk of hacks and privacy violations.
  3. Tech companies like Apple might resist these government orders because it goes against their commitment to privacy. It's not just a principle; it also affects their business and user trust.

Britain should ban TikTok

1675 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Debate National Security Social media Government Regulation Public Opinion
  1. There is currently a discussion about banning TikTok in Britain and the U.S. due to national security concerns. Some people believe the app poses threats, but there is no ban in the UK for now.
  2. Not all arguments for banning TikTok are valid or helpful. Many points made in the debate seem irrelevant and distract from the main concerns.
  3. The debate on TikTok is about more than just fun videos. Some argue that even harmless content could have implications for national security.

Odds and Ends #57: The government isn't as sluggish as it feels

1072 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Public Policy Political theory Political Movements
  1. The government may seem slow, but it is actually getting things done behind the scenes. It's important to stay patient and not worry too much for now.
  2. One European country is ahead in the AI competition, which might surprise many. It's interesting to see how different nations are approaching technology and innovation.
  3. There's an impressive light show that sends a strong message against Putin. Creative expressions like this can really make a statement in politics.

Odds and Ends #56: The awkward truth about Brexit

1005 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💾 History Global events Technology impact Cultural Shifts Social Issues
  1. Brexit is a complicated issue with many underlying problems that need to be addressed. It's not just a simple matter of leave or stay, but involves a lot of factors affecting people's lives.
  2. Local governments have experienced a big change thanks to a small technical adjustment. This shows how little changes can make a huge impact in communities.
  3. The nuclear industry seems to be hesitant and not taking bold steps when needed. This raises questions about their commitment to progress and safety.

AI is going to break how schools work – but that will be good

871 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🚌 Education AI Impact Teaching Methods Technology Integration
  1. AI will change how schools operate, making learning more efficient. It can help reduce the workload for teachers, like grading and paperwork.
  2. AI might even take over parts of teaching, which some might find troubling. There's a fear that it could impact the personal connection between teachers and students.
  3. Everyone needs to accept that AI is coming to classrooms. This will lead to big changes in education and how kids learn.

Why we need seven bins

1407 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Waste Management Environmental Economics Sustainable Practices
  1. Having more bins for waste helps us recycle better. It's easier to separate recyclables from trash when we do it ourselves, which saves money for local councils.
  2. The cost of waste disposal affects what gets recycled. It's cheaper to recycle valuable materials but some items are harder to process, making their disposal costly.
  3. Not everyone has the same ability to recycle, often due to income or living situation. Building better systems and increasing bins alone won't solve the recycling problem—we also need to support everyone in participating.

Odds and Ends #54: Voters in 2019 and 2024 were (mostly) the same – it was the parties that changed

804 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Government Public Policy Society
  1. The voters from 2019 and 2024 were mostly the same, highlighting that it was the political parties that underwent significant changes. This shows that people's core beliefs can remain constant even if the parties they support shift.
  2. The recent emphasis on patriotism can potentially rekindle the left's appeal in Britain, especially by learning from the millennial experiences of the early 2000s. This might inspire newer ways to connect with voters.
  3. The handling of local government issues suggests a collapse in leadership quality and decision-making capability, which is a concern for community welfare. Improving these areas could yield better services and governance.

Odds and Ends #51: Transport for London made a terrible decision and I hope they reverse it

871 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Public Policy Government Regulation Political parties Civic engagement
  1. Transport for London (TfL) should reconsider their strict trademark policies. They might be damaging joy and creativity by being too heavy-handed.
  2. Open data can lead to fun tools and apps that improve people's lives, even if they aren't necessary.
  3. TfL should adopt a friendlier approach to trademark enforcement, similar to how Paramount handles fan content. This would encourage goodwill and support from the public.

The social justice case for self-driving cars

871 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Autonomous Vehicles Mobility Artificial Intelligence Social justice Transportation
  1. Self-driving cars are becoming more common and are already in use in places like San Francisco. Companies are offering autonomous taxi services that anyone can access through an app.
  2. The idea of abundant mobility means that, in the future, traveling will be much cheaper and easier for everyone. This could make life better for many people, especially those with lower incomes, by improving access to jobs, services, and social connections.
  3. While there are challenges and concerns with self-driving cars, like job losses and privacy issues, the overall benefits could lead to a more equal and accessible society, similar to how technology has improved living standards over time.

I'm pro-assisted dying in principle, but I'm not sure about the proposed law

1407 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Ethics Legislation Public Health Social Policy
  1. Assisted dying has good intentions, as it offers a choice to people in pain, but how it’s implemented is very important. We need to make sure that laws respect individual decisions and do not lead to negative outcomes.
  2. The proposed law on assisted dying could be rushed, which raises concerns about its effectiveness and potential problems. It's better to take time to create a solid law that can address all the issues carefully.
  3. Looking at examples from other countries suggests that assisted dying laws can lead to serious issues if not properly controlled. We should learn from their experiences to avoid similar mistakes.

We need more than Westminster reporters to understand government

1072 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Reporting Lobbying Policy
  1. Relying only on political reporters can lead to misunderstandings of complex topics. We need experts in various fields to report accurately.
  2. Specialist journalists can provide important context that general political reporters might miss. This can help clarify complicated subjects for the public.
  3. The issue isn't about political bias, but rather the dominance of lobby reporters in news coverage. This can result in incomplete or unclear stories about significant issues.

Odds and Ends #55: The left needs to learn to love AI

603 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Infrastructure Autonomous Vehicles Logistics Government
  1. The left is often more skeptical about AI compared to the right. Understanding and embracing AI could help reshape perceptions and foster positive changes.
  2. There are important logistics infrastructures that many people overlook in their everyday lives. These systems keep society running smoothly, and it's worth acknowledging their significance.
  3. Google's plans for autonomous vehicles are becoming clearer, which suggests a shift in their business approach. This could mean more practical applications of self-driving technology in the near future.

Keir Starmer needs to prepare for a world without America

1206 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Governance International relations Political parties Elections
  1. America's political situation is very unstable, and this could lead to problems for the rest of the world. If the U.S. struggles to maintain its role as a superpower, it could change global security and trade.
  2. Without strong American support, countries like Russia and China may act more aggressively. This could result in more conflict, especially in places like Taiwan and the South China Sea.
  3. Countries that share democratic values, like those in Europe, should work together more closely. For Britain, reconnecting with Europe may be necessary to ensure security and stability in an uncertain global environment.

5 questions about the "AI opportunities action plan"

603 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Policy Innovation Government Strategy
  1. The AI Opportunities Action Plan is an important government report that aims to guide Britain's approach to artificial intelligence. It has many recommendations that could shape the future of AI in the country.
  2. Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, is focusing on making Britain a leader in AI technology, highlighting its significance in politics and industry.
  3. There's a need for meaningful questions about AI policy, as many journalists often ask irrelevant questions that miss the key issues. Being informed helps drive better discussions around AI advancements.

Odds and Ends #48: The most important week of Labour government so far?

737 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy International relations News
  1. New Zealand's Parliament is unique and different from what you might expect. The atmosphere there is more relaxed and open to discussions.
  2. There's a discussion about a very significant week for the Labour government, suggesting it may have impacted its future direction strongly.
  3. A British tech company has reached unicorn status, showing that innovation and success are happening in the UK tech scene.

Odds and Ends #47: I think this YouTube video just changed my life

804 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History Media Urbanism Society Politics
  1. A YouTube video can have a big impact on someone's life, showing how quickly ideas can change our perspectives. It's amazing how something simple can inspire us to think differently.
  2. Urban reviews can be subjective and funny, highlighting how even a short stay can lead someone to feel like an expert. It shows that everyone has different experiences in new places.
  3. The conversation about political lobbying is complex, and there seems to be growing concern about its influence. It's important to stay informed about how these issues affect us and our communities.

Odds and Ends #50: The weird thing about London's New Year's Fireworks

603 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Events Politics Art History Technology
  1. London's New Year's fireworks have some unexpected political twists that make them more than just a fun spectacle.
  2. The British government needs a solid plan for dealing with Elon Musk's comments and actions that could affect public discourse.
  3. Generative AI is changing the way we think about video production, and its latest developments are surprisingly impressive.

Odds and Ends #53: Now TfL is betting on AI cameras to improve safety

469 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Public Policy Transportation Data Management Governance
  1. Transport for London is planning to use AI cameras to make transportation safer. This technology aims to enhance safety measures in public transport.
  2. A discussion is taking place about how AI could help improve government services. Experts want to focus on real solutions rather than just hype or negativity.
  3. There are concerns about why governments might be hesitant to take action. Some believe that fear of power is stopping them from making necessary changes.

Here's how AI can REDUCE health misinformation

1072 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics
  1. AI can help find false health claims online, which can reduce health misinformation. This means that people can get more accurate information about alternative medicine.
  2. Regulating alternative medicine is important because it protects vulnerable people from being misled by unproven treatments. Clear rules can help limit the spread of false hope.
  3. Using AI to check claims made by alternative medicine clinics could help the government monitor misleading information better. This could lead to safer practices in health care.

Important information if you used my Bluesky MP follows bot

737 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Cybersecurity Software Social media Bots
  1. If you used the Bluesky MP follows bot, it's a good idea to change your Bluesky password for safety. There's a small chance harmful code was on the server, but it seems unlikely any personal data was taken.
  2. The issue arose from outdated Wordpress code on a server that was unintentionally exploited, highlighting the importance of keeping software updated. Neglecting updates can lead to security problems.
  3. The creator of the bot took immediate action by shutting it down and ensuring no more data was at risk. He is being transparent about the issue to help others understand the risks and best practices.

How I learned to stop worrying and love the military industrial complex

938 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
  1. Europe needs to strengthen its military forces regardless of the outcome of U.S. elections. It's important for countries to be prepared for any situation.
  2. People often worry about the military industrial complex, but it can also be viewed as a necessary part of national defense. Understanding this can change perspectives positively.
  3. Political events, like 9/11, can spark interest in politics and awareness about military issues. Such moments can shape how individuals think and engage with government matters.

Odds and Ends #49: How bat protection regulations broke Britain's planning system

536 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
💾 History Historical Events Cultural impact Social Issues Environmental Policy
  1. Bat protection rules in the UK have complicated the planning system, causing delays and issues for construction projects.
  2. Some areas in Europe are actually doing well in terms of economic growth, contrary to common beliefs comparing them to the US.
  3. Many Netflix films are made but quickly forgotten, as the platform produces a lot of content that doesn't stick with viewers.

Why even car-hating urbanists should support building the Lower Thames Crossing

1072 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
  1. Building the Lower Thames Crossing is seen as essential infrastructure, even for those who dislike cars. It aims to improve traffic flow and connectivity in the region.
  2. The project has significant implications for the landscape, as it will cut through farmland and woodland, creating a busy motorway.
  3. Although there is a push for more public transport, the need for this road shows the complexities of urban planning and transportation in areas lacking alternatives.

Odds and Ends #45: Deliverism, blasphemy and selfies from space

670 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
💾 History Political History Cultural History Historical Events Digital history Social history
  1. There are interesting discussions happening around transport and how it might change in the future. A live event is planned to dive deeper into this topic with an expert.
  2. Digital transformation in government is a big challenge, but there are ways to make it work better. A new newsletter is launching to explore these issues and share helpful insights.
  3. Exploring new places can be fun, and getting travel tips for nerdy activities in New Zealand is a great way to prepare. Sharing suggestions can help make the trip more exciting.

NEW EVENT: How the YIMBYs won

335 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Political movement Campaign strategies Government Affordability
  1. The YIMBY movement focuses on making housing more affordable and accessible, which has gained attention in British politics. It's about saying 'Yes In My Back Yard' to new housing developments.
  2. Over time, the YIMBY movement has shifted the political conversation in Westminster, making housing a key issue that politicians now care about. Even high-level politicians, like the Prime Minister, are aligning with this movement.
  3. There will be a live event where Anya Martin, a key figure in the YIMBY movement, will discuss how it changed the political landscape and how they managed to win the housing debate.

Nobody knows what the National Data Library is (not even the government)

871 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
  1. The government has proposed creating a National Data Library, but no one seems to know exactly what it is or how it will work.
  2. Different ideas have been suggested for the library, such as a central place for finding data or a resource for data-driven public services, but none have been clearly defined.
  3. Overall, the National Data Library appears to be a vague concept, and it’s unclear what specific goals or purposes it aims to achieve for the public.

How to fix The Observer

670 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Journalism News Public Opinion Civic engagement
  1. The Observer is facing a potential sale that many staff members oppose, fearing it goes against its founding values. 93% of the voting staff are in favor of striking against the sale.
  2. There's a debate about whether the sale could actually help The Observer, despite the backlash. Some believe it might lead to a better future for the outlet.
  3. The situation highlights the struggles within traditional media and raises questions about its future in the digital age. It's an important moment for both journalists and media consumers.