kottke.org is a personal blog founded by Jason Kottke in 1998, known for its curated links and thoughtful commentary on a wide range of topics including technology, design, culture, and science. The site features daily posts that often include 'Emptying the Tabs' segments, where Kottke shares a rapid-fire collection of interesting links he's accumulated. It also offers a newsletter, a membership program, and a goods store. The site is supported by member contributions and advertising, and it has a distinctive, minimalist design with a focus on content. Over the years, it has become a beloved destination for readers who appreciate high-quality curation and a personal touch.
kottke.org is for curious readers who enjoy discovering interesting and eclectic content across various fields, including technology, design, culture, and science. It's ideal for people who appreciate thoughtful curation and personal commentary rather than algorithm-driven feeds. The site appeals to long-time blog readers, professionals in creative fields, and anyone who values a human-curated internet experience. Members get additional benefits like a newsletter and supporting the site's independence.
kottke.org stands out due to its longevity and consistent quality, having been run by Jason Kottke for over two decades. Unlike many modern content sites, it maintains a personal, stream-of-consciousness style that harkens back to the early days of blogging. The site is ad-supported but also relies on member support, which helps keep it independent and free from clickbait. Its 'Emptying the Tabs' posts offer a unique glimpse into the curator's mind, sharing a diverse array of links that are often overlooked by mainstream media. The site's design is clean and uncluttered, focusing on readability and content.
kottke.org operates in the personal blogging and curated content space, competing with other long-standing blogs like Boing Boing, MetaFilter, and Daring Fireball. It also faces competition from modern content platforms like Medium and Substack, which offer similar curated or personal writing. However, kottke.org's unique voice and history give it a distinct niche. Complementary services include RSS readers like Feedly and social platforms like Twitter and Bluesky, which help distribute its content. The site's membership model is similar to that of other independent creators who use platforms like Patreon.