A collection of interesting links covering research studies, social issues, economic trends and cultural phenomena that challenged expectations. Longer summary

This is a links post compiling various interesting news and studies from different fields. It covers a range of topics from historical myths about Europe's Little Ice Age to current research on poverty, artificial sweeteners, and military suicide rates. Scott highlights several studies that challenged his expectations, including findings about soda taxes and weight loss mortality. The post also touches on social issues like accusations of sexism in libraries and reactions to businesses refusing service to gay weddings. Shorter summary

Ozy Frantz provides a detailed critique of common 'manosphere' beliefs, particularly those of blogger Heartiste, using scientific studies and logical arguments to counter claims about human sexuality and dating. Longer summary

This post is a detailed rebuttal of many common beliefs within the 'manosphere', particularly focusing on the blogger Heartiste. The author, Ozy Frantz, argues against Heartiste's views on human sexual interaction, beauty standards, gender differences, and dating strategies. They provide counterarguments supported by scientific studies and logical reasoning, addressing topics such as physical attractiveness, femininity, sluttiness, and 'game' techniques. The post also touches on issues of evolutionary psychology, societal norms, and the nature of human sexuality. Throughout, Ozy maintains a skeptical stance towards many manosphere claims while acknowledging some gender differences do exist. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander examines the hot dog and bun quantity mismatch as evidence that markets may not always efficiently respond to consumer preferences. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses the economic puzzle of why hot dogs are sold in packs of ten while buns are sold in packs of eight. He argues that this inefficient mismatch shouldn't persist in a free market, as companies should quickly capitalize on consumer demand for matching quantities. The post uses this seemingly trivial example to question broader economic theories about market efficiency and company responsiveness to consumer preferences, suggesting that industries might fail to respond to incentives for extended periods due to factors like tradition. Shorter summary