Joseph Daws

Hello, my name is Joseph. Consider subscribing below to receive some of my thoughts and opinions about software, mathematics, and computers in your email inbox.

Pinned post from February 18, 2025

Moving to Substack

I have decided that I will move my posts to a substack (https://ateliermachines.com). This means I won't be posting here on hey world in the immediate future. Consider subscribing over there! The main reason for this change is that I am interested in a platform with more interactivity (or realistically the possibility of interactivity)...

February 12, 2025

New methods for making and consuming non-linear content

Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to make challenging texts more accessible without losing the intellectual workout that real understanding requires? Non-linear prose, adapted to each reader’s background and needs seems like a worthwhile use case of some new technologies. While it was exhausting at times, I've learned the most fr...

February 6, 2025

Generally special or especially general

I've been thinking a lot about being a generalist versus a specialist. First off, is it really such a sharp dichotomy? I think both have immense value and we all wear different hats in different situations. However, I resonate more with generality. Being interested in multiple areas doesn’t mean you only have surface-level knowledge of...

January 30, 2025

Small detours while finding your path

Learning isn’t just about downloading information; it’s about growing organically. Like gardeners tending plants, teachers and mentors nurture our progress rather than merely installing data. (aside: Or maybe it really is about downloading in our era of open source weights for powerful language models). No matter the professional or ac...

January 23, 2025

The Ivory tower and Autonomy

A key question I think must be asked when deciding to pursue a career either in industry or in academia is what does autonomy mean to you and what expectations do you have about autonomy in your chosen pursuit. As I reflect on my own journey from academia to industry, I see how my conception of freedom and autonomy shaped my desire to ...

January 20, 2025

On Distractions and Renewing old technology

Inevitably, during the course of my daily work as a software engineer, I'll need to log into various systems most of which require two-factor authentication. I've chosen to use an authenticator app on my phone but the simple act of unlocking my phone can trigger endless distractions from notifications, Slack, or email. I’ve lost entire...

January 14, 2025

How Mathematicians Deliver Value to Industry: Insights from Academia to Application

When I speak with undergraduate students studying mathematics, a recurring question arises during the Q&A: “How can studying mathematics translate into a tangible career in industry?” It’s a fair question, one I asked myself during my transition from academia to industry. At the time, concepts like polynomials or orthogonal decompositi...

January 14, 2025

Navigating Academia and Industry: Insights on Metrics, Growth, and Self-Worth

Higher education has always served many purposes. While its popularity continues to grow, academia has long been more than just a meritocratic institution. Historically, it was shaped by religious, political, and now industrial influences. Today, businesses are tapping into academia, not just for knowledge but as a way to align with th...