How has the internet most affected the study of science? In one word:
communication: the ability for scientists to discuss and share their
research with each other quickly and cheaply. So I strive to find new
ways to use the internet to improve communication. Starting this weblog
is one such example. I'd thought I would try another: Instant
Messaging.
Now many of you are thinking I am crazy, but for different
reasons. Some of you out there have been using instant messaging for
years and wondering how I could consider it s "new"
technology. But many of you out there have barely figured out how to
read your email attachments and have hardly even heard of IM.
On a trial basis, for my weblog readers, I will welcome your
instant messages. Talk to me about this weblog, about complexity and
computer science in general or about whatever you want. Maybe I'll
start a trend and all computer scientists will IM each other. Maybe
not but it's worth trying out.
I'm using Yahoo Instant Messaging; my Yahoo id is the imaginative
"fortnow" (note: I do not read email sent to
fortnow@yahoo.com). I put a button on the left column of the weblog
home page that tells you when I am online and you can click to
connect. I look forward to hearing from you.