And that’s exactly what research—especially the kind that leads down “pointless” rabbit holes—gives us. It reminds us that learning isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about depth, exploration, and wonder. In a time when AI delivers pre-packaged answers, we’re realizing that true understanding doesn’t come from speed—it comes from discovery.

conducting research, he prioritizes curiosity over canonical paths , often taking unconventional routes through the work. Though this approach can lead to roundabout explorations, he believes starting where genuine interest lies ultimately reveals the most critical insights

A world of common thinking available on demand will tempt people to outsource their thinking and disproportionately reward people who don’t. In the future, clear thinking will become more valuable, not less.