Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around identifying science and mathematics jobs that require minimal direct interaction with people. Participants explore various job options, the feasibility of online tutoring, and the challenges associated with remote work in these fields.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest online tutoring as a job option but question its financial viability and trust issues related to payment.
- Others propose maintaining educational websites as another potential job, raising concerns about ad revenue.
- A participant humorously suggests shepherding as a job with minimal interaction, highlighting the skills required and the potential for fame.
- There are discussions about the challenges of finding web-based jobs and the experiences of those who have tried online tutoring businesses.
- Some participants express skepticism about the effectiveness of online tutoring due to past failures and lack of customers.
- Concerns about transaction costs and payment methods in online tutoring are raised, with suggestions for minute-by-minute payment to mitigate trust issues.
- One participant mentions the demand for quantitative PhDs in finance, suggesting that such roles may offer good pay with limited interaction.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the best job options or the effectiveness of online tutoring. Multiple competing views and experiences are shared, indicating a lack of agreement on the viability of the proposed jobs.
Contextual Notes
Participants express various assumptions about the nature of minimal interaction, including preferences for telecommuting, anonymity, and avoidance of certain social situations. The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and opinions without resolving the underlying uncertainties.