I’ve been experimenting with vision-language models (VLMs) lately, and smaller ones like SmolVLM have shown me something genuinely fascinating: they behave wildly differently depending on how much context you throw at them. Here’s what I noticed. I gave one model a very specific context: a list of tasks formatted as JSON with exact requirements. It…
Read MoreAll articles filed in Lucid Thoughts
The Role of Proof of Reputation in Virtual Worlds
The metaverse promises to unite distinct virtual experiences, yet its commercial basis raises questions about true freedom. A vital aspect is interoperability and identity verification across platforms. A proposed solution is “Proof of Reputation,” allowing users to carry transferable credibility and trustworthiness across virtual spaces, enhancing engagement and collaboration.
Read More
How Empires Used Meritocracy for Control
The post discusses historical patterns of meritocracy intertwined with religious evangelization across various empires, including the Teutonic Knights, Janissaries, Mandarins, Mughal Courts, and British India. It emphasizes how offering avenues for personal success fosters loyalty, even among conquered peoples, shaping social structures and influencing modern dynamics in cultures and organizations.
Read More
The Lucid Monk 