Scott shares various interesting links and news items from January 2025, covering topics from AI development and politics to historical curiosities and economic trends. Longer summary

This links post covers a wide array of topics from January 2025, with Scott providing commentary and analysis on each. The links include discussions about running for Congress, AI development and safety, dating advice, psychiatric diagnoses, and various economic and technological developments. Scott often adds his own insights and sometimes skepticism to the claims being discussed. The post also includes several historical curiosities and social observations, maintaining a mix of serious analysis and lighter interesting facts. Shorter summary

A review of 'The Family That Couldn't Sleep' by D. T. Max, discussing its exploration of prion diseases and their impact, with updated perspectives on the book's conclusions. Longer summary

This review discusses 'The Family That Couldn't Sleep' by D. T. Max, a book about prion diseases published in 2006. The review covers the book's exploration of various prion diseases, including fatal familial insomnia, kuru, mad cow disease, and chronic wasting disease. It highlights the book's focus on the historical, scientific, and cultural aspects of these diseases, as well as the key figures involved in prion research. The reviewer also provides updated information and critiques some of the book's conclusions in light of more recent research. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander examines the limitations of empathy training in medical education and shares his experiences learning to express empathy effectively as a doctor. Longer summary

Scott Alexander reflects on the teaching of empathy in medical school and its application in real-world doctor-patient interactions. He describes the awkward role-playing exercises used to teach empathy, which often result in stilted, scripted responses rather than genuine human connection. Scott explains that this approach is driven by the need for standardized, legally defensible assessment methods. He then shares personal experiences as a new doctor, highlighting the challenges of expressing empathy appropriately in emotional situations. The post concludes with insights on how Scott has learned to better navigate these interactions, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the patient's needs rather than demonstrating one's own empathy. Shorter summary