Riccardo Di Capua - Profile on Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Riccardo Di Capua

This essay examines the profound transformation of contemporary dining experiences through artifi... more This essay examines the profound transformation of contemporary dining experiences through artificial intelligence integration, analyzing the technological, economic, and sociocultural dimensions of this evolution across the global foodservice landscape. As AI technologies increasingly permeate food preparation, service delivery, personalization systems, and atmospheric design, traditional dining paradigms are undergoing substantial reconfiguration. Analysis of current market trends indicates average annual per capita food-away-from-home expenditures are projected to increase from 3,100in2023toapproximately3,100 in 2023 to approximately 3,100in2023toapproximately4,850 by 2030, with participation patterns revealing significant shifts toward hybridized dining modalities that blend physical and digital experiences. This examination reveals a complex interplay between technological advancement and fundamental human commensality needs, suggesting that AI will not homogenize dining but rather create increasingly stratified experiences across socioeconomic segments while simultaneously democratizing aspects of culinary knowledge and personalization previously restricted to premium dining contexts.

This essay examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on personal physical fit... more This essay examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on personal physical fitness paradigms, exploring how the integration of AI technologies is reshaping individual exercise methodologies, communal fitness practices, and industry economics. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated in providing personalized fitness guidance, tracking biometric data, and simulating immersive physical experiences, traditional fitness approaches are undergoing substantial evolution. Analysis of current market trends indicates average annual per capita fitness expenditures are projected to increase from 155in2023toapproximately155 in 2023 to approximately 155in2023toapproximately310 by 2030, with participation patterns shifting toward hybrid physical-digital modalities. This examination reveals a complex interplay between technological advancement and fundamental human physical needs, suggesting that AI will not replace traditional fitness but rather augment it through personalization, accessibility, and novel engagement mechanisms that address contemporary lifestyle constraints while potentially exacerbating digital divides in fitness access.

Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational conce... more Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational concept but a fundamentally physical process governed by thermodynamic constraints. This essay explores the deep connections between information theory, statistical mechanics, and memory systems across scales, from quantum mechanical processes to biological neural networks.

This essay examines the transformation of post-dinner leisure activities in American domestic spa... more This essay examines the transformation of post-dinner leisure activities in American domestic spaces through distinct technological eras, from the centralized television experience of the mid-20th century to today's AI-integrated environments. The analysis traces how collective family viewing practices gave way to digital fragmentation and personalized media consumption, before emerging AI technologies began reintegrating domestic leisure through increasingly sophisticated capabilities. Contemporary AI systems now function not merely as tools but as quasi-social participants in home life, generating personalized content, adapting environments, and augmenting traditional family activities. Looking toward the near future, developments in embodied AI, mixed reality experiences, and emotional intelligence suggest potential for technology to counter atomizing tendencies while raising critical questions about agency, privacy, and transformed sociality. This historical and theoretical examination reveals how changes in domestic leisure reflect broader technological and social transformations, highlighting both the promise of enhanced family connection and the peril of surveillance, dependency, and substitution of machine for human interaction. The evolution of these practices ultimately illuminates changing patterns of family dynamics, identity formation, and the contested boundaries between public and private spheres in American life.

In the complex history of toxicology, few substances have earned a reputation as sinister as sini... more In the complex history of toxicology, few substances have earned a reputation as sinister as sinister as thallium. Nicknamed the "poisoner's poison," thallium has cast a dark shadow across forensic medicine, literature, and criminal history. The element's unique properties—tasteless, odorless, and highly toxic in small doses—combined with its initially difficult-to-detect nature, have made it a favored tool of murderers and assassins throughout the modern era. This essay explores the pharmacochemistry of thallium, its historical applications, and the cultural narratives that have emerged around this deadly element.

This dialogue explores the fundamental distinction between governance and control in complex adap... more This dialogue explores the fundamental distinction between governance and control in complex adaptive systems, using Norbert Wiener's cybernetic framework as a conceptual foundation. Beginning with an examination of Wiener's perspectives on the machine age, the conversation evolves to investigate how governance—characterized by establishing frameworks, principles, and boundaries that guide behavior without dictating every action—offers a more nuanced approach than direct control for managing sophisticated AI systems. The discussion then deepens through biological analogies, particularly examining DNA not as a deterministic blueprint but as a multi-dimensional governance framework that enables both stability and adaptation. This biological lens reveals how genetic regulatory networks balance constraint with flexibility, suggesting that effective AI governance similarly requires multi-level regulatory mechanisms that can accommodate emergence and adaptation while maintaining alignment with human values. The resulting theoretical framework transcends traditional control paradigms, proposing instead that AI development should incorporate principles of evolutionary adaptation within carefully designed governance boundaries, enabling beneficial innovation while mitigating existential risks.

The integration of artificial intelligence into romantic pursuit represents a paradigm shift in h... more The integration of artificial intelligence into romantic pursuit represents a paradigm shift in human connection that transcends mere technological innovation. This essay examines the evolution from digitally-mediated to algorithmically-curated intimacy, analyzing both current implementations-including advanced matching algorithms, conversational assistance, and safety mechanisms-and imminent developments such as biometric feedback integration, emotional intelligence frameworks, and personalized AI intermediaries. Beyond technological functionality, the analysis explores profound implications for relationship development timelines, choice architecture, socioeconomic stratification, and privacy paradigms. The emergence of "dating genomes" and predictive compatibility models raises fundamental questions about the objective versus constructed nature of romantic compatibility. As AI systems increasingly identify patterns invisible to unaided perception, we confront essential philosophical questions about the boundaries between technological mediation and authentic human connection in an era where algorithms not only facilitate matches but potentially redefine our understanding of intimacy itself.

This essay examines the profound transformation of domestic labor through artificial intelligence... more This essay examines the profound transformation of domestic labor through artificial intelligence integration, analyzing both current implementations and imminent developments within household management systems. It explores the evolution from discrete task automation to holistic ecosystem development, wherein previously isolated smart devices converge into coordinated networks exhibiting emergent intelligence. Beyond technological functionality, the analysis investigates the sociocultural implications of these developments, including the recalibration of domestic skill valuation, shifting temporal economies, accessibility enhancements, and environmental sustainability impacts. The emergence of predictive management systems and advanced robotics applications raises fundamental questions about the ontological nature of "housework" itself. As domestic environments increasingly transition from spaces requiring maintenance to systems providing anticipatory care, we confront essential philosophical questions about human agency, privacy sovereignty, and the redefinition of domestic comfort in algorithmically-mediated living spaces.

Bluetooth was a nickname for Harald Gormsson, who was a 10th-century Danish king who ruled Denmar... more Bluetooth was a nickname for Harald Gormsson, who was a 10th-century Danish king who ruled Denmark and parts of Norway from approximately 958 to 986 CE. He's historically significant for a few key reasons, including that he unified Denmark under his rule and conquered parts of Norway.
The modern Bluetooth wireless technology was named after him in the 1990’s. The creators chose his name as a reference to his role in unifying different regions, much like how Bluetooth technology was designed to unify communications protocols. The Bluetooth symbol is actually a combination of the Nordic runes for his initials (H and B).

Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational conce... more Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational concept but a fundamentally physical process governed by thermodynamic constraints. This essay explores the deep connections between information theory, statistical mechanics, and memory systems across scales, from quantum mechanical processes to biological neural networks.

Guatape is a small, colorful town with a rich history that dates back to the indigenous Tahamí p... more Guatape is a small, colorful town with a rich history that dates back to the
indigenous Tahamí people who originally inhabited the region before Spanish colonization. The area was first colonized by Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century, who began to establish settlements and transform the landscape. The town is a major tourist attraction, especially for travelers from Medellín. The famous zócalos (murals) that adorn several buildings attract many tourists.

Personal notes on Richard Strauss’ tone poem Also sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra). Th... more Personal notes on Richard Strauss’ tone poem Also sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra). These notes start with a review on Friedrich Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" and his philosophy, followed by a closer look at the tone poem itself, its structure, musical transcendence, some of the more memorable performances and missteps, and a few critical responses, both positive as wells as not-so-positive.

其略曰:古老人事,述一虚构弗雷斯卡罗萨夜烛下写诗。 Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equa... more 其略曰:古老人事,述一虚构弗雷斯卡罗萨夜烛下写诗。

Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Chinese)

Riassunto: Una storia antropica "antica" totalmente fittizia su un altrettanto fittizio Frescaros... more Riassunto: Una storia antropica "antica" totalmente fittizia su un altrettanto fittizio Frescarosa che scrive una poesia di notte a lume di candela. (Italiano con traduzione in Inglese)

Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Italian with English translation)

Summary: A totally fictitiously “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa ... more Summary: A totally fictitiously “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa
writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Finnish with an English translation.)

Yhteenveto: Yhteenveto: Täysin fiktiivisesti "muinainen" Anthropic tarina yhtä kuvitteellisesta
Frescarosasta, joka kirjoittaa runon yöllä kynttilänvalossa. (Suomeksi
englanninkielisellä käännöksellä.

An overview of onionskin paper within its historical context and development, its manufacturing p... more An overview of onionskin paper within its historical context and development, its manufacturing process, various types and qualities, inks and instruments used to write upon it, its cultural impact and legacy, environmental considerations (they made me put it). The second part deals with aerograms, The All-in-One Airmail Solution.

Personal notes and observations on Helsinki: animal motifs and notes on the Kalevala, including p... more Personal notes and observations on Helsinki: animal motifs and notes on the Kalevala, including pictures of animal motifs on street corners. Personal notes on the Kalevala, too

Finland - personal notes on the language, genetics, history, food. vodka and chocolates, saunas, ... more Finland - personal notes on the language, genetics, history, food. vodka and chocolates, saunas, and a few maps.

Notes after the total solar eclipse of April 8th, 2024. Covers an introduction to total solar ecl... more Notes after the total solar eclipse of April 8th, 2024. Covers an introduction to total solar eclipses, their historical and cultural significance, observations and interpretation of solar eclipses in selected ancient civilizations, the science of total solar eclipses, the past, present, and future of total solar eclipses, significance of witnessing these events in the present day, and final thoughts on the wonder and mystery of the cosmos. Ends with paraphrase from Dante's Divina Commedia.

Riccardo Di Capua

Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is renowned for its striking landscapes and t... more Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is renowned for its striking landscapes and towering granite peaks. The region is steeped in myths and legends that have been passed down by the indigenous Tehuelche people who inhabited the area for centuries. Here are three notable myths and legends associated with Torres del Paine.

This essay examines the profound transformation of contemporary dining experiences through artifi... more This essay examines the profound transformation of contemporary dining experiences through artificial intelligence integration, analyzing the technological, economic, and sociocultural dimensions of this evolution across the global foodservice landscape. As AI technologies increasingly permeate food preparation, service delivery, personalization systems, and atmospheric design, traditional dining paradigms are undergoing substantial reconfiguration. Analysis of current market trends indicates average annual per capita food-away-from-home expenditures are projected to increase from 3,100in2023toapproximately3,100 in 2023 to approximately 3,100in2023toapproximately4,850 by 2030, with participation patterns revealing significant shifts toward hybridized dining modalities that blend physical and digital experiences. This examination reveals a complex interplay between technological advancement and fundamental human commensality needs, suggesting that AI will not homogenize dining but rather create increasingly stratified experiences across socioeconomic segments while simultaneously democratizing aspects of culinary knowledge and personalization previously restricted to premium dining contexts.

This essay examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on personal physical fit... more This essay examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on personal physical fitness paradigms, exploring how the integration of AI technologies is reshaping individual exercise methodologies, communal fitness practices, and industry economics. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated in providing personalized fitness guidance, tracking biometric data, and simulating immersive physical experiences, traditional fitness approaches are undergoing substantial evolution. Analysis of current market trends indicates average annual per capita fitness expenditures are projected to increase from 155in2023toapproximately155 in 2023 to approximately 155in2023toapproximately310 by 2030, with participation patterns shifting toward hybrid physical-digital modalities. This examination reveals a complex interplay between technological advancement and fundamental human physical needs, suggesting that AI will not replace traditional fitness but rather augment it through personalization, accessibility, and novel engagement mechanisms that address contemporary lifestyle constraints while potentially exacerbating digital divides in fitness access.

Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational conce... more Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational concept but a fundamentally physical process governed by thermodynamic constraints. This essay explores the deep connections between information theory, statistical mechanics, and memory systems across scales, from quantum mechanical processes to biological neural networks.

This essay examines the transformation of post-dinner leisure activities in American domestic spa... more This essay examines the transformation of post-dinner leisure activities in American domestic spaces through distinct technological eras, from the centralized television experience of the mid-20th century to today's AI-integrated environments. The analysis traces how collective family viewing practices gave way to digital fragmentation and personalized media consumption, before emerging AI technologies began reintegrating domestic leisure through increasingly sophisticated capabilities. Contemporary AI systems now function not merely as tools but as quasi-social participants in home life, generating personalized content, adapting environments, and augmenting traditional family activities. Looking toward the near future, developments in embodied AI, mixed reality experiences, and emotional intelligence suggest potential for technology to counter atomizing tendencies while raising critical questions about agency, privacy, and transformed sociality. This historical and theoretical examination reveals how changes in domestic leisure reflect broader technological and social transformations, highlighting both the promise of enhanced family connection and the peril of surveillance, dependency, and substitution of machine for human interaction. The evolution of these practices ultimately illuminates changing patterns of family dynamics, identity formation, and the contested boundaries between public and private spheres in American life.

In the complex history of toxicology, few substances have earned a reputation as sinister as sini... more In the complex history of toxicology, few substances have earned a reputation as sinister as sinister as thallium. Nicknamed the "poisoner's poison," thallium has cast a dark shadow across forensic medicine, literature, and criminal history. The element's unique properties—tasteless, odorless, and highly toxic in small doses—combined with its initially difficult-to-detect nature, have made it a favored tool of murderers and assassins throughout the modern era. This essay explores the pharmacochemistry of thallium, its historical applications, and the cultural narratives that have emerged around this deadly element.

This dialogue explores the fundamental distinction between governance and control in complex adap... more This dialogue explores the fundamental distinction between governance and control in complex adaptive systems, using Norbert Wiener's cybernetic framework as a conceptual foundation. Beginning with an examination of Wiener's perspectives on the machine age, the conversation evolves to investigate how governance—characterized by establishing frameworks, principles, and boundaries that guide behavior without dictating every action—offers a more nuanced approach than direct control for managing sophisticated AI systems. The discussion then deepens through biological analogies, particularly examining DNA not as a deterministic blueprint but as a multi-dimensional governance framework that enables both stability and adaptation. This biological lens reveals how genetic regulatory networks balance constraint with flexibility, suggesting that effective AI governance similarly requires multi-level regulatory mechanisms that can accommodate emergence and adaptation while maintaining alignment with human values. The resulting theoretical framework transcends traditional control paradigms, proposing instead that AI development should incorporate principles of evolutionary adaptation within carefully designed governance boundaries, enabling beneficial innovation while mitigating existential risks.

The integration of artificial intelligence into romantic pursuit represents a paradigm shift in h... more The integration of artificial intelligence into romantic pursuit represents a paradigm shift in human connection that transcends mere technological innovation. This essay examines the evolution from digitally-mediated to algorithmically-curated intimacy, analyzing both current implementations-including advanced matching algorithms, conversational assistance, and safety mechanisms-and imminent developments such as biometric feedback integration, emotional intelligence frameworks, and personalized AI intermediaries. Beyond technological functionality, the analysis explores profound implications for relationship development timelines, choice architecture, socioeconomic stratification, and privacy paradigms. The emergence of "dating genomes" and predictive compatibility models raises fundamental questions about the objective versus constructed nature of romantic compatibility. As AI systems increasingly identify patterns invisible to unaided perception, we confront essential philosophical questions about the boundaries between technological mediation and authentic human connection in an era where algorithms not only facilitate matches but potentially redefine our understanding of intimacy itself.

This essay examines the profound transformation of domestic labor through artificial intelligence... more This essay examines the profound transformation of domestic labor through artificial intelligence integration, analyzing both current implementations and imminent developments within household management systems. It explores the evolution from discrete task automation to holistic ecosystem development, wherein previously isolated smart devices converge into coordinated networks exhibiting emergent intelligence. Beyond technological functionality, the analysis investigates the sociocultural implications of these developments, including the recalibration of domestic skill valuation, shifting temporal economies, accessibility enhancements, and environmental sustainability impacts. The emergence of predictive management systems and advanced robotics applications raises fundamental questions about the ontological nature of "housework" itself. As domestic environments increasingly transition from spaces requiring maintenance to systems providing anticipatory care, we confront essential philosophical questions about human agency, privacy sovereignty, and the redefinition of domestic comfort in algorithmically-mediated living spaces.

Bluetooth was a nickname for Harald Gormsson, who was a 10th-century Danish king who ruled Denmar... more Bluetooth was a nickname for Harald Gormsson, who was a 10th-century Danish king who ruled Denmark and parts of Norway from approximately 958 to 986 CE. He's historically significant for a few key reasons, including that he unified Denmark under his rule and conquered parts of Norway.
The modern Bluetooth wireless technology was named after him in the 1990’s. The creators chose his name as a reference to his role in unifying different regions, much like how Bluetooth technology was designed to unify communications protocols. The Bluetooth symbol is actually a combination of the Nordic runes for his initials (H and B).

Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational conce... more Memory—the ability to encode, store, and retrieve information—is not merely a computational concept but a fundamentally physical process governed by thermodynamic constraints. This essay explores the deep connections between information theory, statistical mechanics, and memory systems across scales, from quantum mechanical processes to biological neural networks.

Guatape is a small, colorful town with a rich history that dates back to the indigenous Tahamí p... more Guatape is a small, colorful town with a rich history that dates back to the
indigenous Tahamí people who originally inhabited the region before Spanish colonization. The area was first colonized by Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century, who began to establish settlements and transform the landscape. The town is a major tourist attraction, especially for travelers from Medellín. The famous zócalos (murals) that adorn several buildings attract many tourists.

Personal notes on Richard Strauss’ tone poem Also sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra). Th... more Personal notes on Richard Strauss’ tone poem Also sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra). These notes start with a review on Friedrich Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" and his philosophy, followed by a closer look at the tone poem itself, its structure, musical transcendence, some of the more memorable performances and missteps, and a few critical responses, both positive as wells as not-so-positive.

其略曰:古老人事,述一虚构弗雷斯卡罗萨夜烛下写诗。 Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equa... more 其略曰:古老人事,述一虚构弗雷斯卡罗萨夜烛下写诗。

Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Chinese)

Riassunto: Una storia antropica "antica" totalmente fittizia su un altrettanto fittizio Frescaros... more Riassunto: Una storia antropica "antica" totalmente fittizia su un altrettanto fittizio Frescarosa che scrive una poesia di notte a lume di candela. (Italiano con traduzione in Inglese)

Summary: A totally fictitious “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Italian with English translation)

Summary: A totally fictitiously “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa ... more Summary: A totally fictitiously “ancient “Anthropic story about an equally fictitious Frescarosa
writing a poem at night by candlelight. (Finnish with an English translation.)

Yhteenveto: Yhteenveto: Täysin fiktiivisesti "muinainen" Anthropic tarina yhtä kuvitteellisesta
Frescarosasta, joka kirjoittaa runon yöllä kynttilänvalossa. (Suomeksi
englanninkielisellä käännöksellä.

An overview of onionskin paper within its historical context and development, its manufacturing p... more An overview of onionskin paper within its historical context and development, its manufacturing process, various types and qualities, inks and instruments used to write upon it, its cultural impact and legacy, environmental considerations (they made me put it). The second part deals with aerograms, The All-in-One Airmail Solution.

Personal notes and observations on Helsinki: animal motifs and notes on the Kalevala, including p... more Personal notes and observations on Helsinki: animal motifs and notes on the Kalevala, including pictures of animal motifs on street corners. Personal notes on the Kalevala, too

Finland - personal notes on the language, genetics, history, food. vodka and chocolates, saunas, ... more Finland - personal notes on the language, genetics, history, food. vodka and chocolates, saunas, and a few maps.

Notes after the total solar eclipse of April 8th, 2024. Covers an introduction to total solar ecl... more Notes after the total solar eclipse of April 8th, 2024. Covers an introduction to total solar eclipses, their historical and cultural significance, observations and interpretation of solar eclipses in selected ancient civilizations, the science of total solar eclipses, the past, present, and future of total solar eclipses, significance of witnessing these events in the present day, and final thoughts on the wonder and mystery of the cosmos. Ends with paraphrase from Dante's Divina Commedia.

Riccardo Di Capua

Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is renowned for its striking landscapes and t... more Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is renowned for its striking landscapes and towering granite peaks. The region is steeped in myths and legends that have been passed down by the indigenous Tehuelche people who inhabited the area for centuries. Here are three notable myths and legends associated with Torres del Paine.

Español (pag 1): refutando la tensión según Levinas. Su noción de la "tensión" ha sido ampliament... more Español (pag 1): refutando la tensión según Levinas. Su noción de la "tensión" ha sido ampliamente discutida y analizada en el mundo filosófico. Sin embargo, en este ensayo, argumentaré en contra de la teoría de Levinas sobre la tensión y explicaré por qué creo que no es una idea válida.

English (pag 2): refuting tension according to Levinas. His notion of "tension" has been widely discussed and analyzed in the philosophical world. However, in this essay, I will argue against the theory of Levinas about tension and I'll explain why I think it's not a valid idea.