I put a toaster in the dishwasher (2012) (jdstillwater.blogspot.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the author's experience of putting a toaster in the dishwasher and finding that it still works afterwards, challenging conventional wisdom that electronics and water do not mix. The author argues that people often cling to conventional ignorance and are hesitant to challenge established beliefs. The article also touches on the idea that evolution may have built-in a 'better safe than sorry' approach to dealing with uncertainty. The author's experiment with the toaster is used to illustrate this point.

Main themes

• Conventional ignorance
• Challenging established beliefs
• Evolution and risk aversion
• Electronics and water
• Critical thinking
• Experimentation

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that putting a toaster in the dishwasher is not a good idea due to the risk of damage or fire, and that it's better to err on the side of caution.
• Others share their own experiences of successfully cleaning or repairing electronics after exposure to water, suggesting that the risks may be overstated.
• A few commenters note that the real risk is not to the toaster, but to the dishwasher and the potential for leaching toxic substances into dishes.
• Some argue that the article's themes of challenging conventional wisdom and embracing experimentation are valuable, but should be balanced with a consideration of potential risks and consequences.
• There is disagreement among commenters about the best way to clean and maintain electronics, with some advocating for gentle methods and others suggesting more unconventional approaches.
• A few commenters draw parallels between the article's themes and other areas of life, such as the importance of questioning established beliefs in science and education.
• Some commenters share their own stories of successfully reviving or repairing damaged electronics, highlighting the potential benefits of experimentation and creative problem-solving.
• Others caution against taking unnecessary risks and emphasize the importance of following established safety protocols when working with electronics and water.