A "modest proposal" Emmet offered as a thought experiment, that I found thought provoking: have a max speed limit of information of 90 mph.

· Bits and Bobs 10/20/25
  • A "modest proposal" Emmet offered as a thought experiment, that I found thought provoking: have a max speed limit of information of 90 mph.
    • If it goes faster, it gets taxed, at a rate that goes up quadratically.
    • The main knob to control is the tax rate.
      • It could be an infinitesimally small tax rate, if you wanted.
    • This would naturally tilt information to local sources.
      • You could use the Global TikTok for a fee, or the Bay Area TikTok content for free.
      • A consistent pressure towards local connection, which is healthier for the system.
    • Downward pressure on inequality.
      • Like regularization, it forces it into flatter distribution.
      • Fewer billionaires, but more centi-millionaires.
      • Fewer centi-millionaires, but more dece-millionaires.
      • Fewer deca-millionaires, but more millionaires.
      • A healthier, more balanced system.
    • You could argue that a system of tariffs (consistently and thoughtfully applied) is a form of gradient clipping in this context.
      • It gives you a rough version of this policy, in the trade domain.
    • Obviously, an unworkable proposal, but still a fascinating thought experiment.