Reflections from a Nerd
Reflections from a Nerd is an independent publication about the widening gap between fast-moving technology and slow-moving institutions.
I write about artificial intelligence, bureaucracy, democracy, education, work, geopolitics, truth, and ethics. I also publish Quantum Spielerei: short, playful explainers that use irresponsible metaphors in the service of reasonably responsible physics.
Who I am
I’m Dirk, an IT professional with decades of experience watching technologies, organizations, and public systems change—often at very different speeds.
That experience left me fascinated by a recurring question: why can technical systems adapt so quickly while many social and political systems struggle to learn, simplify, or correct course?
What you’ll find here
Concise essays that make one argument clearly.
Longer research reports that examine evidence, trade-offs, and case studies.
Playful quantum explainers for curious non-specialists.
Proposals for institutions that learn faster and work better.
The aim is not to defend a tribe or repeat a party line. It is to examine systems, challenge comfortable assumptions, and make room for serious disagreement.
How I work
When an argument depends on data, law, or research, I aim to link to the underlying source. Opinion and interpretation remain my own. If a factual error is identified, I will correct the web version and add a clear correction note when the change is material.
Start here
Subscribe if you enjoy systems thinking, intellectual friction, and arguments that take evidence more seriously than slogans. You can also browse the full archive.
For a correction or factual challenge, comment on the relevant essay. Serious disagreement is welcome.
