What do infectious diseases and internet memes have in common? They both spread through networks, as Kevin Simler (computer scientist, engineer, and self-proclaimed "restless millennial") reminds us in "Going Critical." This interactive essay, published by Simler in 2019 on his online essay database Melting Asphalt, explores how "networks rule our world." "Going Critical" invites readers to play with "transmission rates" and models to better understand how these networks work, focusing on the "the way things move and spread, somewhat chaotically, across a network." The essay is broken down by topic, such as Degree and Cities and Network Density. Each section features visual and interactive tools and a discussion of the thematic topic. This structure helps users digest the material - whether phrases like "spontaneous activation" and "supercritical networks" are new to your vocabulary, or you're a seasoned pro in the network arena. If you enjoy this piece, you may want to check out the rest of the site, which features other essays such as "A Natural History of Beauty" and "Here Be Sermons."