Scott presents results from his AI art Turing test showing most people struggled to distinguish AI from human art, with professionals doing slightly better and participants unexpectedly preferring AI art. Longer summary

Scott analyzes the results of his AI art Turing test where 11,000 people tried to distinguish between human and AI-generated art. The median score was 60%, only slightly above chance, showing most people had difficulty identifying AI art. Participants tended to judge images based on style rather than subtle quality differences, incorrectly assuming traditional styles were human and digital art was AI. Interestingly, people slightly preferred AI art even when they claimed to hate it. However, professional artists and AI critics scored better at detection, suggesting they may notice subtle flaws that others miss. Shorter summary

A comprehensive review of 'The Castrato' by Martha Feldman, exploring the history, biology, and social impact of castrati singers in Italy. Longer summary

This book review explores 'The Castrato' by Martha Feldman, detailing the history of castrati singers in Italy from the 16th to 19th centuries. It covers their origins, biology, vocal abilities, social status, and relationships with the church and aristocracy. The review also draws parallels to modern practices and speculates on potential future implications of human modification for entertainment or power. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander reviews the obscure psychoanalytic book 'Sadly, Porn', attempting to decipher its core ideas about human psychology and society. Longer summary

Scott Alexander reviews 'Sadly, Porn' by Edward Teach, a complex and obscure psychoanalytic work. He attempts to decipher the book's core ideas about human psychology, desire, and societal structures, while grappling with its intentionally difficult style and controversial claims. The review explores themes of envy, status-seeking, and the modern psyche's relationship with corporations and technology, as well as the book's critique of contemporary politics and culture. Shorter summary