Scott Alexander, curated
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Link: Troof On Nootropics

Quality
58
Solid
Claude Shift
38
Slight
RWI
1
of 10

Summary

Linkpost signal-boosting Troof's nootropics recommendation-engine replication of Scott's 2020 survey, but with real added analysis: a simple 'how-hard-to-get + how-novel/high-tech + is-it-a-stimulant' model predicts the ratings almost perfectly, raising placebo-effect concerns (psilocybin-microdosing ranked 8th despite failing double-blind studies; SAMe near the bottom despite RCT support); plus the self-critical Zembrin non-replication.

Why this score

Quality 58 · Solid. Solid-Strong: a linkpost lifted above the bare-linkpost band by genuine analytical content (the predictive model + the placebo/self-critical notes).

Claude’s paradigm shift 38 · Slight. Slight-Moderate: mostly relays + models a replication; limited novelty.

Real-world impact 1 · Negligible. Within-discourse linkpost; negligible material reach. =1.