Ask HN Digest - 2025 Week 20
Here is this week's digest:
Ask HN: What Problem Would You Solve with Unlimited Resources? [May 2025]
If given unlimited resources, what problems would innovators tackle? A recent discussion explored this, revealing a wide spectrum of ambitions. Top priorities include solving homelessness by renovating buildings and providing support services, revolutionizing healthcare with AI and incentive shifts towards wellness, and advancing longevity research to extend healthspan. Other notable goals involve developing new programming languages, addressing systemic issues like patriarchy and political gerrymandering, urbanizing slums, and even tackling information overload or the 'problem of evil.' A key insight is that while 'unlimited' resources are a dream, many ambitious projects—like specific biotech for aging or local housing initiatives—could see significant progress with more focused funding and effort, not necessarily infinite amounts.
Ask HN: Hackathons feel fake now
A Hacker News discussion explores the sentiment that modern hackathons, particularly in SF, feel increasingly 'fake' due to overwhelming sponsor presence, forced tool adoption, and a lack of genuine innovation. Many commenters share this view, with some noting this commercialization isn't new. Nostalgic comparisons are made to older, informal 'OG' hackathons focused on passion projects and peer learning. Productive advice includes approaching current hackathons as networking opportunities, focusing on personal learning rather than just sponsor requirements, getting adequate sleep, and aiming for a functional MVP. Alternatives like game jams, community-driven coding events (e.g., for InfoSec, specific tech like FHIR), and initiatives like Hack Club (for high schoolers) are suggested for a more authentic experience.
Ask HN: When will Wayland eclipse X?
A Hacker News discussion debates Wayland's adoption progress against X11. While the original poster cites 80-93% X usage, many commenters believe Wayland is already the majority on desktops, driven by defaults in distributions like Fedora and Ubuntu. Key adoption hurdles include missing X11 features (e.g., xkill, robust X forwarding), inconsistent stability (especially with older GPUs or specific hardware like DisplayLink), and incomplete support in some desktop environments like XFCE. Users emphasize the need for Wayland to address these practical usability concerns and improve backward compatibility to gain wider acceptance.
Ask HN: What's a good system to remember to wear my reading glasses at my desk?
Struggling to remember your reading glasses at your desk? This discussion offers a range of practical solutions. Top tips include physically placing glasses to obstruct your view (e.g., hanging them in front of your monitor using an eyeglass chain and a command hook, or putting them on your keyboard), consciously practicing the habit of putting them on at scheduled intervals, and keeping multiple cheap pairs readily accessible. Simple visual cues like a Post-it note on your monitor were also popular.
Ask HN: Best underrated way to get a job in tech during a hiring slowdown?
Facing a tough tech job market? This Hacker News discussion offers underrated strategies for job seekers, especially recent graduates. Key takeaways include targeting small companies, niche industries, or government roles for potentially less competition and broader experience. Engaging with tech communities like hacker spaces and professional organizations (e.g., ACM, IEEE) can build valuable networks and skills. Contributing to open source projects or solving GitHub bounties (e.g., on Algora.io) is a strong way to demonstrate practical abilities. For smaller companies, consider creative application methods like personalized video introductions. Finally, being open to salary flexibility or exploring roles in non-tech companies, particularly those with strong diversity initiatives, can broaden opportunities.
Ask HN: Anyone else give up on trying to get rich?
A Hacker News discussion reveals a common sentiment: many individuals, after initially pursuing immense wealth, shift their focus towards contentment, work-life balance, and meaningful work over simply 'getting rich.' Key takeaways include the importance of defining what 'enough' means personally, valuing time and well-being, and for aspiring entrepreneurs, a crucial reminder to solve real customer problems and embrace the business side as an integral part of building, rather than just chasing abstract 'multi-million dollar ideas.' This shift in perspective often aligns with changing life stages and priorities.
Ask HN: Parents of young kids: how do you teach that hitting is not acceptable?
Parents of a 5-year-old struggling with hitting due to frustration received diverse advice on Hacker News. Key recommendations include seeking pediatric occupational therapy for self-regulation strategies and help liaising with the school. Collaborating with educators to create a consistent behavior plan, potentially involving school counselors, was also emphasized. At home, the 'I Can Problem Solve' (ICPS) method—which guides children to identify problems from their perspective and brainstorm solutions—was a standout suggestion. Commenters also highlighted the importance of understanding potential disinhibition (a common developmental challenge), recognizing a child's unique ways of attempting self-regulation, and maintaining firm, loving boundaries while fostering empathy. The possibility of alternative schooling was raised for children for whom mainstream environments might be counterproductive.
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