Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON May 12, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: The Evolution of Prime Time Viewing. Impact: The decline of traditional Prime Time viewing led to the rise of binge-watching, which ultimately resulted in a generation of couch potatoes who are now experts in Netflix algorithms rather than actual social interaction.. Fact: Did you know that TiVo was once so popular that it was rumored to be a secret government experiment to see how long people could sit still before turning into human jelly?.
- Headline: Iraqi Army's Progress in Basra. Impact: The gains made by the Iraqi Army in Basra not only shifted the balance of power in Iraq but also inspired a new generation of military strategists who believe video game tactics are the key to modern warfare.. Fact: Fun fact: Basra has been around for over a thousand years, which means it has seen more military strategies than your average video game player has seen respawns..
- Headline: Missouri's Voter ID Controversy Explained. Impact: The Voter ID Battle, while seemingly about citizenship, sparked a nationwide trend of people inventing more convoluted IDs, leading to a bizarre underground market for 'legal-looking' documents that would make even the most skilled forger raise an eyebrow.. Fact: Ironically, the only thing more difficult to obtain than a Voter ID in Missouri is a coherent explanation of why they’re needed in the first place..
- Headline: Pérez Is Able to Have Fun and Get Mets a Victory, Too. Impact: Carlos Beltrán's performance not only secured a win for the Mets but also sparked a resurgence of hope in fans, leading to the famous 'Optimistic Fan Syndrome,' which has since afflicted millions during baseball season.. Fact: Did you know that the Mets are the only team where a single player’s performance can lead to a collective delusion of World Series potential? It's a talent!.
- Headline: Little Pieces of Los Angeles, Done His Way. Impact: James Frey's book success not only solidified his place in the literary world but also encouraged a wave of authors to write memoirs about their completely fabricated lives, leading to a new genre: 'Fictional Non-Fiction'.. Fact: Frey’s work paved the way for countless sequels, proving that if you can convince people your lies are deep and meaningful, you can sell anything—like my uncle’s collection of garden gnomes..
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)