What Living Rooms Were Like Before Television

Modern American living rooms typically revolve around large flat-screen TVs, with furniture arranged in a way that emphasizes the screen. However, what did these spaces resemble before televisions became the center of attention? Vintage Everyday takes us on a visual journey through a captivating collection of photographs showcasing people engaged in activities like playing the piano, reading, or simply daydreaming. Some images even feature early media, like massive radios that resemble refrigerators, as individuals enjoy reading or knitting while listening.

Atari's Nostalgic Cartridge Release for the 2600

It's fascinating to see certain old media making a comeback. Vinyl records are enjoying a resurgence, with many artists earning more from vinyl sales than from CDs, while cassette tapes are also gaining popularity. However, formats like minidiscs and eight-tracks have not seen the same revival.

Old gaming cartridges seem to be in a similar position. With their unique industrial design and satisfying ergonomics, they hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers. So, it comes as no surprise that Atari is launching new cartridges for the Atari 2600. The upcoming titles include Yar's Return, Aquaventure, and Saboteur. Notably, Yar's Return stands out as it is a sequel to the iconic Yar's Revenge, which was one of the few unique space-fighting games of its time.

The Evolution of Door Handles by Wittgenstein

Did you know that the modern door handle was largely shaped by philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein? In an engaging history of door handles, Rebecca Siegel highlights how these fixtures transitioned from ornate designs to more minimalist forms. Wittgenstein's contribution, a simple bent metal bar for a house he designed for his sister in 1928, is considered one of the most influential designs in modern architecture.

Solitaire with a Scientific Twist

MIT has developed a unique version of online solitaire featuring cards depicting renowned scientists. My recent game included notable figures like Grace Hopper and Hedy Lamarr, making what is usually a mundane game surprisingly engaging.

The Fascinating Science Behind Finger Snaps

Finger snapping has a rich history dating back to at least 320 B.C., evidenced by ancient pottery depicting the god Pan in a snapping pose. Recent research from Georgia Tech has shed light on the mechanics of this seemingly simple action. The study found that finger snapping is one of the quickest movements made by the human body, with rotational velocities reaching 7,800 degrees per second. This astonishing speed surpasses many other physical feats, demonstrating the body's remarkable capabilities.

America's Most Disturbing Car Advertisement

While I own a car, I often find American automotive advertisements to be quite off-putting. They promote dangerous driving as a symbol of masculinity and promote the idea that larger vehicles equate to safety, disregarding the risks posed to others. Amidst this troubling portrayal, Streetsblog has been running a contest to identify "America's Most Toxic Car Ad," narrowing it down to two finalists, one of which features a Chevy ad that suggests owning a truck enhances one's attractiveness.

The Battle Against Illegal Antiquities Trafficking

In a riveting article from The Atlantic, Matthew Bogdanos, a prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney's office, is profiled for his efforts to combat the trafficking of illegal antiquities. The piece recounts his journey from a young boy captivated by The Iliad to a dedicated professional fighting against art theft, highlighting his impressive achievements in reducing the number of art galleries involved in antiquities trade in New York City.

Innovative Designs of the Letter "M"

Public transportation systems often incorporate the letter "M" into their logos, leading to creative design challenges. Bloomberg's CityLab explores 77 different iterations of the letter, revealing common aesthetic trends and the significance behind these choices in conveying the quality of transit services.

A Final Note of Curiosities

From the evolution of intelligence due to terrestrial life to the whimsical world of game design, there's always something to discover. Explore topics ranging from new games to fascinating legal battles, and even the quirky aspects of our daily lives.

Clive Thompson is a contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, a columnist for Wired and Smithsonian magazines, and a regular contributor to Mother Jones. He’s the author of "Coders: The Making of a New Tribe and the Remaking of the World" and "Smarter Than You Think: How Technology is Changing our Minds for the Better." You can find him on Twitter and Instagram @pomeranian99.