4 ms·

Dear diary: Today I took part in a debate on an engineering forum on whether the US could take Russia in a nuclear war.

• chrisco255 3y ago
  Who would make those calculations if not engineers?
  • Garvi 3y ago
    Right after we calculate how many days a person can hold his breath underwater. The idea itself is so ridiculous and vile, it makes HN look like a bunch of children.
    • ChatGTP 3y ago
      Well it is :)
      • Garvi 3y ago
        It didn't used to be the case.
    • chrisco255 3y ago
      It's not ridiculous, and obviously it's not so simple, which is why it's a good nerd snipe. Obviously we shouldn't be nonchalant about engaging in thermonuclear warfare (and none of the armchair strategists get to decide this anyways), but it's worth going through the thought experiment. It's informative if nothing else, and if you can't see why then maybe you should try engaging in more "ridiculous" thought experiments.