The future perfect continuous passive and other transitive disorders of the mind

Nature

by Timothy Quinn

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article presents a thought-provoking narrative about two entrepreneurs, Seb and Yuri, who are developing cutting-edge technology to address the multibillion-dollar crisis of limited premium advertising inventory. Their innovative solution involves injecting ads into other ads, a complex software architecture that they pitch to potential investors. During their presentation, they encounter an associate who is initially confused but intrigued by their vision. The narrative explores themes of technological innovation, resourcefulness, and the high stakes of pushing boundaries in science and engineering. Seb and Yuri secure $12 million in funding and move into an old World War II-era warehouse near LAX, which previously housed a physics department and served as a lab for fitting IEDs onto bats. The setting adds a layer of intrigue, with its industrial history and challenges, such as dealing with leftover equipment like a superfluid helium-3 freezer. This "causality bottle" is described as a highly experimental device that may be leaking bubbles of precognitive dissociation, potentially causing cognitive damage. The article delves into the scientific and philosophical implications of their work, including the concept of closed loops of quantum retrocausality and its potential impact on human cognition. The narrative highlights the risks and uncertainties associated with advanced technologies, raising questions about the ethical and societal implications of such innovations. Ultimately, the story serves as a cautionary tale about the pursuit of scientific progress and the importance of understanding the long-term consequences of one's work. It challenges readers to think critically about the intersection of technology, ethics, and human well-being, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in science, technology, and the future of innovation. This article is particularly relevant for readers interested in science fiction

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026