Slide Rules
Note: This topic was mentioned during the call but not discussed in depth.
Mechanical calculation devices that were once essential for engineers and scientists.
The Story
"My dad's physics professor in college: 'Buy a quality slide rule because you'll be using it the remainder of your career'"
Of course, electronic calculators made slide rules obsolete within years.
Gil's Memory
"I think mine is around here somewhere…"
Many in the group remembered the slide rule era.
Victoria's Father
Victoria (Spain) mentioned her father wrote a Wikipedia article on calculation rules (presumably including slide rules), spending over a year on it - an act of deep curiosity about obsolete technology.
The Lesson
Same pattern repeats:
- Today's essential tool
- Tomorrow's museum piece
- Experts can't predict which tools will endure
- See Technology and Obsolescence