slatestarcodex is a compelling look at the mindset among Silicon Valley’s tech industry. Reporter Cade Metz says he was able to easily find the blogger’s real name -scott siskind.
It was the epicenter of a community called the rationalists. The group aimed to re-examine the world through cold and careful thinking.
The blog was read by top venture capitalists and startup leaders. Most held a deep-seated distrust of mainstream media. Some even considered ways to target a’single vulnerable hostile reporter’.
The slate star series is a popular story. Readers say it’s part of the appeal of Mr. siskind’s willingness to step outside acceptable topics.
The slatestarcodex blog resonated with people with more extreme views. siskind has since reinstated old posts, and has launched a substack newsletter.
Tech company leaders have a very specific view of what constitutes’free speech’. Many prefer not to have their views challenged by journalists. Metz’s article suggests there’s actually a guiding philosophy, beyond libertarianism.