Thanks for checking out my site. I write because it helps me clarify my thoughts and learn more about what I’m interested in. I’m primarily interested in two things.
How we make policy, rules, and regulations for new technology, and
The future of California, especially Southern California
1 - Policy For Innovation
Innovation is inherently novel. Policy tends to be based on precedent. I find the resulting conflict endlessly fascinating, a frothy, ongoing battle of trying to maximize public good and minimize harms without knowing a technology’s full impact. That’s why I chose to write my dissertation on the arrival of shared e-scooters in Southern California and analyze how policymakers responded. That’s also why I work at a consulting firm that specializes in helping innovative tech companies navigate political challenges.
Innovation is more than just a fascination for me. I believe innovation is deeply important for human flourishing. This isn’t because it’s cool to have shiny new things, it’s because innovation can create material abundance and create novel opportunities. I don’t believe technology changes human nature, but I do believe the worst parts of human nature come out in the face of increased scarcity and competition. Promoting technology that creates abundance is often a policy choice, and technology plays a starring role in minimizing scarcity and benefitting everyone.
My Writing
2 - The Future of California
I’m a California Maximalist. As the famous saying goes, “California is America, only more so.” Our state embodies the best and worst of what the U.S. has to offer the world, and I want to see it thrive.
California is also my home, and the Golden State has been a wellspring of opportunity for generations of my family. My mother’s side of the family moved here during the Great Depression to grow oranges in the Inland Empire and has stayed here ever since. My father moved here after a childhood spent in poverty, paid his way through higher education, and led a successful career in water policy. My family is similar to the millions of other people who sought opportunity in California. I want to make sure California offers similar chances to future generations.
My long-term goal is to highlight the best ideas I come across for California’s future. Right now my focus is on deepening my understanding of California’s past, which is why I’m slowly working my way through a shelf of books on California history. Once I decided this interest will be a lifelong project, a few years spent studying the past seemed well-worth the effort.
My Writing
My California Reading List (coming soon)
Reflections from Over 3,000 Pages of California History (coming soon)
