Author: OutlookZen

Correlation between Stock-Market-Returns, GDP Growth and PE Ratios

In an earlier article, we discussed the primary factors that drive long-term stock market returns. Namely: Earnings yield Real GDP growth Inflation We also discussed ignoring fluctuations in the PE Ratio, because: PE ratios tend to be cyclic, and do not increase or decrease in perpetuity Over the long term, fluctuations in the PE ratio … Continue reading Correlation between Stock-Market-Returns, GDP Growth and PE Ratios →

What drives Stock Market Returns?

“The stock market is nothing more than a ponzi scheme” “It’s all just fake money” “Stocks prices are completely arbitrary. It can rise or crash any day” Chances are, you’ve heard some variation of the above, many times in your life. It’s hardly surprising - stocks play a crucial role in our economy and personal … Continue reading What drives Stock Market Returns? →

Solving the Raven-Paradox and Improving the Way we do Science

One of the most interesting paradoxes studied by Philosophers, is also one that challenges our entire approach to science and knowledge gathering. Despite its monumental importance, there currently exist no satisfying resolution to this paradox. Which is unfortunate, because by studying this paradox, and learning how to resolve it, we all stand to benefit immensely, … Continue reading Solving the Raven-Paradox and Improving the Way we do Science →

Philosophical Proof for the Human Soul

As a lifelong agnostic, I never thought that I would find myself arguing for the existence of “souls”, much less claiming that I’ve found proof through Philosophical reasoning. And yet, as I consider the alternative, I find myself unable to accept any other conclusion. If we were to assume that human consciousness arises purely out … Continue reading Philosophical Proof for the Human Soul →

The Real Truth about NYC’s Elite High Schools

A couple days ago, the NYTimes published an op-ed proclaiming “The Truth about NYC’s Elite High Schools”. The truth, according to them, is the following: NYC’s elite high schools are a bastion of bias and discrimination. In order to remedy this, they need to abandon their current test-based entrance system, in favor of one that more … Continue reading The Real Truth about NYC’s Elite High Schools →

Forget Basic Income – We need Guaranteed Employment

I’ve long been a champion of Basic Income. As we head towards an uncertain future where automation and offshoring becomes the norm, we need more safeguards to protect the most vulnerable members in our society. Instead of paternalistic welfare programs, full of bureaucracy and central planning, the idea of putting money directly in the pockets … Continue reading Forget Basic Income – We need Guaranteed Employment →

Too Big To Fail: A Call for States’ Rights

In the wake of the 2008 crisis came the realization that our financial system is teetering on the brink, at the mercy of banks that are too big to fail. A lesson that’s hardly surprising to Software engineers who have known for decades that "God Objects", entities that are far too widely encompassing, produce intractable … Continue reading Too Big To Fail: A Call for States’ Rights →

Dangerous Ideas

In communist China, those deemed to be promoting dangerous Capitalist ideas were subjected to severe crackdown under the Cultural Revolution. In Catholic 16th century Europe, those who promoted radical ideas that undermined mainstream Judeo-Christian beliefs, were locked up as heretics. In America during the Red Scare, those suspected of endorsing Socialist ideas were subjected to … Continue reading Dangerous Ideas →