news.volyx.in

What happened to nerds? (mrmarket.lol)

755 points by vrnvu · 27 days ago · 512 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses how the tech industry has changed over the years, with tech leaders becoming more egocentric and attention-seeking, and how this shift has affected the public's perception of the industry. The author argues that the industry's leadership has liquidated its trust and converted it into attention, which has led to a decline in the industry's reputation. The article also critiques the 'Founder's Fund Mafia' video, which is seen as a symbol of the industry's shift towards self-promotion and attention-seeking. The author suggests that founders should focus on promoting their core nerd values, such as a love of learning and humility, rather than trying to build their personal brands.

Main themes

  • Tech industry changes
  • Ego and self-promotion
  • Nerd culture
  • Attention economy
  • Trust and reputation
  • Founder branding

What commenters say

  • The tech industry's shift towards self-promotion and attention-seeking is a result of the financialization of technology and the influence of venture capital.
  • The internet was different in the past, with fewer people and less commercialization, which allowed for more genuine and technical discussions.
  • The rise of social media and online platforms has led to a decline in civil and meaningful discussions, with many people prioritizing self-promotion and conformity over rational argumentation.
  • Nerds are not inherently logical or rational, and their passion and fervor can sometimes lead to illogical and irrational behavior.
  • The concept of 'nerd' has been co-opted by people who prioritize self-promotion and attention-seeking over genuine intellectual curiosity and technical expertise.
  • The pressure to conform and avoid controversy on online platforms has led to a decline in meaningful discussions and a rise in 'low-value' comments.
  • The pursuit of likes and validation on social media has created a culture where people are more interested in posting provocative content than engaging in genuine discussions.
  • The decline of nerd culture and the rise of self-promotion in the tech industry are linked to the increasing influence of finance and capitalism on the industry.