Well I think they refer to the genetic make-up of the circadian timing system, as mentioned in https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_owl .
Most modern night owls just have very bright whole-house lighting and a world-class 24/7 carnival in their pockets.
THIS is a brilliant metaphor. I see it myself, how being tired during the day, allows me to justify avoidance of important conflicts. Instead I prefer do indulge myself in the carnival of LED light, doing things which would have little-to-no priority in the middle of social activities. Without the stimuli & light of modern tech, this wouldn't have a chance to be a thing.
Also, I have started thinking about my Night Owliness, as a manifestation of avoidant character in general. The "waiting till deadline to do a sprint" type of mentality.