Weekend Reading
Writing worth reading - 25th/26th Jan 2025
Sociability is vital but true solitude is precious by James Marriott
“But as Rousseau knew, it is only when we are really alone that we see ourselves. Many compulsively sociable characters must go out every evening because they cannot stand their own company; they hope to lose, not find, themselves in other people. The ersatz sociability of social media serves a similar function…”
Britain should stop pretending it wants more economic growth by Janan Ganesh
“This week, Sir Keir Starmer set out a plan to exploit artificial intelligence to enrich the UK. The moment it was clear that he wasn’t serious was when he said he would make AI “work for everyone”. Almost no government reform that is worth a damn works for everyone. His line all but concedes that, once AI upsets an interest group, he is liable to cave…”
How Democrats Drove Silicon Valley into Trump’s Arms by Ross Douthat
“We’re going to talk about that evolution. But I wanted to start by going way back in time to the origins of your career, because you were present for the early days of the internet — not really the beginning of Silicon Valley itself but the beginning of Silicon Valley as a crucial influence in American life, I would say…”
Founders (need) Focus
This week we shared that we’re starting Founders Focus, a new membership program from 9others; a space for you to carve out time to work on the hard things that really matter. Check out the announcement here.
What does it do?
Founders Focus keeps you focused, accountable and connected.
Who it’s for?
Founders Focus will suit Solo Founders, Remote (Co) Founders, and Freelancers, CxOs and Side Hustlers.
Qs?
Read more and check out the FAQs on the 9others Notion, here.
We hope you’ll join us.
Upcoming meals with 9others
Wednesday 29th January — London — details and signup here.
Tuesday 4th February — Manchester — details and signup here.
Wednesday 19th February — London — details and signup here.