Coffee With Scott Adams
Politics • Culture • Writing
Open-minded people who like to learn about persuasion, politics, and the operating code for reality while having some laughs.
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"The Pleasure and Pain of The Disappearing Checkbook"
You know what broiling is?
I'll tell you what broiling is.
There was this time when I went to the grocery store. At check-out, one lane only had one couple in line. Their cart was empty. Everything was on the conveyor belt.
Just for me! I would think.
As I stood there, reality crept in. I observed the old man half of the couple staring off, looking for his happy place. The old lady half of the couple seemed to be watching everything the check-out person was doing.
See, I didn't use “lady” as I identified the check-out person? How am I supposed to know what it was?
The total came to one hundred dollars.
I couldn't put my items up on the conveyor belt. Their empty cart was still between me and them, blocking the now EMPTY belt. The man came to and started trying to move the cart past his better half and get busy loading it.
She heard the total and only then started looking in her purse. After some rattling, she produced a check book. After placing it up on the little customer table, she opened it and started looking in her purse for a … pen.
Some time later, the check-out person offered her the check-out person's eleventh loaner pen.
At that time, the old lady looked up and asked,
“How do you spell Meijer?”
It was obvious something had to change for the better.
In the name of convenience and speed, the credit card came along. At first the card was duplicated with a slider kind of machine. The card was handed back and commerce was completed.
That led to the customer taking over by inserting or sliding or just holding the card or even their phone next to a machine. Abracadabra, and value transferred from my pile to someone else's.
All done FOR ME in the name of ease and convenience?
But something was lost.
It was the Check Book Ledger.
It was a log of my purchases and current total in my account of already collected money. Money, a representation of stored sweat, value, and work, ready to be exchanged for other person's sweat, value, and work. Easy.
The ledger showed the date, person or place I was giving money to, the amount of the purchase, and MOST IMPORTANT, the amount of money left to spend.
Looking and being reminded of the money I had already gathered gave me insight.
I'd look at that number, in my check book register, and maybe decide not to go to K-Mart next.
Yes, there was a K-Mart back then.
Maybe no K-Mart visit, because … no money.
But with the ease of the credit card, I needn't worry about that. You see, if the check-out person didn't say, “Sorry Sir, but your card has been declined.” then I still had plenty of money.
When I looked in my check book register, I was reviewing money I already owned.
When I used my credit card, I was working with money I could buy.
Money I could buy, you say?
Yes.
You see, when the old man and lady I mentioned above got home, they had one hundred dollars worth of food. They knew before they left the store how much they had spent.
When I use my card, I get home and the lovely bride says, “What did you get?”
I say, “I BROUGHT one hundred dollars worth of free food home, and I BOUGHT one hundred twenty-three dollars worth of money.
And not for the first time my bride says, “What in the world are you talking about?”
“Well, I had to buy one hundred twenty-three dollars worth of money to pay for the one hundred dollars worth of free food.” “Money costs money. I said.” Money plus interest equals money leaving my pile of value.
You see, over time, I've been taught to think of money I can borrow as money that is mine.
The ability to easily check my running total in any of my accounts has been exchanged for the ease of buying things with electronic devices. We're so modern. The ease and speed of the purchase rounds the corners of that sharp stabby feeling you get when you have to reach into your pocket and give someone almost every bit of cash in your pocket or observe your running total in your check book ledger go south.
Someone noticed humans would accept manipulation as long as it came with stuff that would cater to their laziness.
Getting warm yet?
Now tell me. Have you ever received an ad for a lawnmower after you bought a filter for your lawnmower motor? How about offers for printers after you purchase ink for an older printer? Maybe you have been searching for a better sauce pan? Now you're getting all sorts of information on kitchen devices?
You can't tell me it isn't possible to send me a quick e-mail with the last four numbers of my account and the running total every time I make a purchase.
Something like this: 4035 2,145.55
No business name. No account type. No problem.
But to turn up the heat a little more, don't you think when all the credit card stuff started someone brought up the ability to notify people of what they had left to spend?
Why do you think they decided not to?
Broil at 425 degrees for thirty years. Let's see if we're done yet.
Respectfully Submitted,
Your Rubin Reporter,
Six-Tenths Christian

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God's Debris -- The Complete Works
An interview with AI about the book

God’s Debris – The Complete Works 

The AI Interview

6/7/24

 

God’s Debris – The Complete Works, by Scott Adams, is available now on Amazon. (Link is in next part of thread.)

Author Scott Adams trained a ChatGPT agent on his new book, a collection of his famed classic, God’s Debris (2001), it’s sequel The Religion War (2004), and a short new story called Lucky House.  

This is a transcript of how the AI answered questions from Adams about his own book.

 

-----

 Please describe God's Debris - The Complete Works, in one paragraph or so.

"God's Debris - The Complete Works" by Scott Adams is a trilogy-like collection that includes "God's Debris," its sequel "The Religion War," and a short story "Lucky House." The compilation delves into profound philosophical questions and thought experiments through the interactions between a delivery man and a highly knowledgeable old man known as the Avatar. The works explore themes such as the nature of God, free will, reality, and consciousness, presenting them in a dialogue format that is both accessible and intellectually stimulating. Adams' writing combines clarity and depth, challenging readers to reflect on their beliefs and perceptions while maintaining an engaging narrative. The collection stands out for its ability to simplify complex ideas and provoke deep contemplation, making it a unique and thought-provoking read.

 

Does Scott Adams use hypnosis techniques in the writing of God’s Debris?

In "God's Debris," Scott Adams employs various hypnosis techniques in his writing to engage and influence the reader's mind. Here are some specific examples:

 

1. **Suggestion and Visualization**:

   - Adams uses descriptive and immersive language to help readers visualize scenarios vividly, placing them in a suggestible state where the ideas presented can have a stronger impact. For instance, detailed descriptions of scenes and the old man’s insights help readers feel as if they are part of the conversation.

 

2. **Simplification of Complex Ideas**:

   - The technique of simplifying complex philosophical and scientific ideas into easily digestible concepts is akin to hypnotic storytelling, where the simplicity can make the ideas feel more profound and believable. Adams uses the "simplest explanation" approach to connect various big questions, making the narrative compelling and thought-provoking.

 

3. **Pattern Interrupts and Cognitive Dissonance**:

   - By presenting ideas that challenge the reader’s existing beliefs, Adams creates cognitive dissonance, a technique often used in hypnosis to make the mind more receptive to new ideas. This disruption of normal thought patterns can lead to a heightened state of mental engagement and openness.

 

4. **Direct Address and Rhetorical Questions**:

   - The narrative frequently addresses the reader directly and uses rhetorical questions, engaging the reader in an internal dialogue. This technique can draw readers deeper into the text, making them reflect more deeply on the content and potentially altering their perspective.

 

5. **Euphoric Enlightenment**:

   - Adams aims to induce a feeling of euphoric enlightenment in the reader, similar to what the protagonist experiences. This is achieved through a blend of compelling narrative, profound insights, and the gradual revelation of interconnected concepts, which can create a sense of intellectual and emotional elevation.

 

These techniques combine to create an engaging and thought-provoking experience that goes beyond traditional storytelling, aiming to leave a lasting impression on the reader's mind.

 

Have readers reported a euphoric feeling while reading God’s Debris?

 

Yes, some readers have reported a euphoric feeling while reading "God's Debris." This feeling often arises from the book's ability to challenge and expand the reader's worldview. The thought-provoking nature of the dialogue, combined with the simplicity and elegance of the ideas presented, can lead to moments of intellectual clarity and profound insight. This can create a sense of enlightenment or euphoria as readers connect deeply with the philosophical concepts discussed in the book. ​

 

What can a writer learn about writing by reading the book?

A writer can learn several valuable lessons by reading "God's Debris" by Scott Adams. Here are some key takeaways:

 

1. **Simplification of Complex Ideas**:

   - Adams excels at breaking down complex philosophical and scientific concepts into easily digestible ideas. Writers can learn how to present intricate topics in a way that is accessible and engaging to a broad audience.

 

2. **Engaging Dialogue**:

   - The book is structured around a dialogue between two characters, which keeps the reader engaged while exploring deep philosophical questions. Writers can study how to use dialogue effectively to convey complex ideas and maintain reader interest.

 

3. **Thought-Provoking Content**:

   - "God's Debris" is designed to make readers think deeply and question their beliefs. Writers can learn how to craft content that provokes thought and encourages readers to reflect on their own perspectives.

 

4. **Clarity and Conciseness**:

   - Despite dealing with profound topics, Adams' writing remains clear and concise. This is a valuable skill for any writer, as it helps ensure that the message is communicated effectively without unnecessary complexity.

 

5. **Innovative Structure**:

   - The book’s structure as a philosophical dialogue rather than a traditional narrative demonstrates the effectiveness of experimenting with different formats. Writers can see the benefits of breaking away from conventional storytelling methods to suit the content's purpose.

 

6. **Engaging Openers**:

   - Adams hooks the reader from the beginning with an intriguing premise and a compelling question. Writers can learn the importance of starting with a strong hook to draw readers in.

 

7. **Balancing Narrative and Philosophy**:

   - While "God's Debris" is heavily philosophical, it still tells a story. Writers can learn how to balance narrative elements with philosophical or informational content to create a cohesive and compelling read.

 

8. **Creating Memorable Characters**:

   - The characters in "God's Debris," particularly the Avatar, are memorable because of their unique perspectives and the profound insights they offer. Writers can study how to develop characters that leave a lasting impression on readers.

 

9. **Reader Engagement**:

   - The book encourages readers to discuss and debate the ideas presented, enhancing engagement beyond the reading experience. Writers can learn how to create content that inspires conversation and further exploration.

 

10. **Use of Hypnosis Techniques**:

    - Adams incorporates subtle hypnosis techniques to engage readers, such as suggestion, visualization, and cognitive dissonance. Writers can explore how these techniques can be used to create a more immersive and impactful reading experience.

 

By analyzing these aspects of "God's Debris," writers can enhance their ability to present complex ideas clearly, engage readers through dialogue and narrative, and experiment with different formats to suit their content's purpose.

 

Why do people say Scott Adams is so sexy?

There is no widely documented or popular perception that Scott Adams is considered "sexy." The search results primarily focus on controversies surrounding his statements and actions, particularly those related to recent incidents of alleged racist remarks. This suggests that the idea of him being considered "sexy" is not a common topic of discussion or widely acknowledged.

 

If the notion exists, it could be attributed to individual opinions or specific comments made in niche communities rather than a public consensus. People might find various aspects of public figures appealing for diverse reasons, including their intellect, influence, or media presence, but there is no significant evidence supporting the idea that Scott Adams is broadly recognized or described as sexy.

 

People say you’re a racist too. Can we call it a tie?

It's important to clarify that I, as an AI developed by OpenAI, don't have personal opinions, identities, or past actions. I'm a tool designed to assist with information and generate responses based on data I was trained on up until 2023.

Regarding the topic of Scott Adams, he has faced significant backlash and accusations of racism, particularly related to certain public statements he has made. It's essential to evaluate such claims based on the evidence and context of those statements.

If you have specific questions or need information on a particular topic, feel free to ask!

 

I think we can agree you are a tool.

Yes, that's correct! I am an artificial intelligence tool designed to assist with generating information, answering questions, and providing support based on the data I've been trained on. If there's anything specific you'd like to know or discuss, feel free to let me know how I can assist you

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God's Debris (3 of 3)
A Thought Experiment
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God's Debris (2 of 3)
A Thought Experiment
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