What kind of a country strives hard to acquire territory only to deny its people the full splendor of the spoils? Among many other countries who often styled themselves “empires” and acquired far-flung islands across the ocean, the United States, that’s who. Specifically I’d like … Continue readingA Not-so-Minor Dream for the Minor Outlying Islands
From masking to “social distancing” to what could best be described as “hygiene theater”, we have been told our lives must be up-ended, our pursuit of fulfillment stymied at every turn, to make us well, to ward off sickness, to keep us healthy. Yet aside … Continue readingFresh Air, Green Space, and Unsung Paths to Healthy Living
How advanced would a spacefaring alien or future civilization become? What is the ultimate fate of intelligence in the universe? Big questions, but there are fundamental underpinnings that affect any civilization that might be out there, perhaps none more fundamental than energy. Civilization’s progress may … Continue readingThe Coming Union of Intelligence and the Cosmos Primeval
This year has seen a historically rapid rise in adoption of alternative forms of education. Virtual and remote education has become the norm, home education proper has seen a spike, and perhaps most interestingly educational “pods” have become mainstream. Amidst all this educational ferment I … Continue readingArt, Nature, and Freedom: Toward a Better Future for Education
What would be the happiest day we could design? It’s an interesting question with large potential implications for how well we live our lives. More precisely, how should we split our time between various activities to maximize happiness and well-being? A fascinating 2013 study (summarized … Continue readingThe Surprising Path to a Happy Everyday Life