One software that I really appreciate, Freemake Video Converter, perpetrates this "scam." Personally, I prefer unchecking a box once to seeing ads on every use. But I agree it's a pretty shady tactic. I'm sure the problem will go away as tech literacy increases. Until then, so few people will be both aware and bothered by it that there will be no sudden change... just like issues in the non-tech world!
When I'm reading a book, I've already decided that I'm going to read every word. On your website (on any website), I'm going to skim first to evaluate how much fluff and filler is written and to hopefully get to the point. With such large font, there is so little content in front of me that I'm actually frustrated with the encumbrance. If I didn't know better, I'd feel insulted that you deemed it necessary to try to control my browsing experience so strictly.
First, don't refer to them as noobs unless you are trying to degrade them. Second, I recommend Introduction to Systematic Program Design on Coursera. It matches the same intro course for which CompSci students pay Universities thousands of dollars across North America.
It's great to be aware of social issues, but I find myself disagreeing with the foundation of this article. While online gaming is a very easy way to expose yourself to the harsh realities of prejudice in the world, I don't believe there is a relevant relationship between sexism and games as a medium. Considering the differences between Call of Duty players and Animal Crossing players, I think the studious will quickly recognize that the same differences are identifiable between firing range patrons and a members of a gardening club. Proof-reading that last sentence gives me one thought "well, that's just a no-brainer!" as it should. The gaming community comprises hundreds of niches that have their own personalities and behavior, just as the "television-watching community" does. To draw conclusions about the whole based on behavior of the relative few is offensive to me as a gamer.
I was really happy to read what Assange had to say about the political education of the apolitical youth. What he says around #883 articulates some strong feelings I think about often.
Big fan of gdocs here. Some of the new functions are going to really be great. My only complaint is the display changes. The default row size has increased to 21 from 17 and size 10 font no longer fits in a 17 pixel row. The best option now is size 9 font on 19 pixel rows. It may seem nitpicky, but when I design a spreadsheet, I use a lot of screenspace and this really adds up.
I feel design is inclusive of UX, but "design" by itself is more commonly interpreted as visual & graphic art. Not sure how that stands with general public though.
>YC doesn’t necessarily mean sure shot success. Paul Graham is a human and bound to make mistakes.
I may be wrong, but I don't think YC aims to only fund companies that will "succeed." Each venture is an exploration into a space. I think "mistake" is a bit presumptuous.