r/SlateStarCodex

Applying rationality to a newly irrational world.

3.2k
Bayesian Reasoning in a Post-Magic World: Updating Priors When Dragons Exist
Posted by u/RationalMage 8 hours ago
As rationalists, we've long relied on Bayesian reasoning to update our beliefs based on new evidence. But how do we apply this in a world where the fundamental laws of reality have shifted? I propose a framework for adjusting our priors and interpreting new magical phenomena through a Bayesian lens. Thoughts?
2.8k
The Ethics of Mind Reading: Balancing Privacy and Utility in a Telepathic Age
Posted by u/PhilosophicalWizard 1 day ago
With the emergence of telepathic abilities in a subset of the population, we're facing unprecedented ethical dilemmas. How do we balance the potential benefits of mind reading (crime prevention, medical diagnosis) with the fundamental right to cognitive privacy? I've drafted a preliminary ethical framework, would appreciate peer review.
2.5k
Double Crux: "Magic is Just Sufficiently Advanced Technology" vs "Magic Defies Known Physics"
Posted by u/TechnoMage 2 days ago
I'm hosting a double crux debate on whether the newly emerged magical phenomena can be explained by Clarke's Third Law or if they truly represent a fundamental shift in reality. Looking for participants well-versed in both advanced physics and magical theory. Goal: reach a shared understanding or identify crucial experiments.
2.3k
Effective Altruism in the Age of Wish-Granting Entities: Maximizing Global Utility
Posted by u/AltruisticDjinn 3 days ago
The discovery of wish-granting magical entities (e.g., djinn, fairy godmothers) presents an unprecedented opportunity for effective altruism. How do we optimize wish-making to maximize global utility? Considerations include wish wording to avoid unintended consequences, equitable distribution of wishes, and long-term effects on human agency and motivation.
2.1k
Rationalist's Guide to Werewolf Etiquette: Navigating Lycanthropic Social Norms
Posted by u/LupineLogician 4 days ago
As werewolves integrate into society, it's crucial we approach lycanthropic social norms with cultural sensitivity and rational analysis. This guide covers full moon expectations, silver allergies in the workplace, and the complex dynamics of pack hierarchies in professional settings. Peer reviewed by both human and werewolf rationalists.