Two billion years ago, life reorganized itself around a new architecture. Venkatesh Rao argues we are living through the same transition now - and that understanding what AI actually is requires a Copernican shift before any meaningful ethical question can even be asked. Humans may not be the protagonists of this story, but Rao makes clear we are the mitochondria.

Kris Abdelmessih joins Matt Zeigler on Notes on Notes to explore the Kelly Criterion, bet sizing, and why having favorable odds does not guarantee success. They discuss how probability, risk management, and a deeper understanding of math can improve decisions in investing and everyday life.

Joseph Moore joins Matt Zeigler on Notes on Notes to explore AI and the future of writing, from AI detection tools to the value of human creativity and original thought. Drawing on his essay "Human 100%," Joseph explains why artificial intelligence may imitate a writer's voice while the experiences, thinking, and feelings behind meaningful writing remain essential.

When an AI detector stamps your work "Human 100%," it should feel like a win. Joseph Moore isn't quite buying it. If we grade writing by its output, we've already lost track of what writing is actually for - and a brief detour through 19th-century horse manure makes the point better than any AI ever could.