The best thing you can really say about the Age of Enlightenment is that it was nice while it lasted. Sure, it was better than the Dark Ages, but what wasn’t? In any case I have to wonder where it all got us in the end. To my thinking, without the Age of Enlightenment, weContinue reading “Greatest Hits of the Enlightenment”
Category Archives: History
Is Connecticut Funny?
The following story is true, only the events have been changed to protect me from lawsuits, brickbats, and evil curses. Names are real however, and nobody is innocent, particularly me. I recently came across an opinion piece in a prominent state newspaper with the provocative heading, “Why isn’t Connecticut funnier?” Imagine my surprise andContinue reading “Is Connecticut Funny?”
The Evolution of Lying
Scientists say that humans primarily evolved to be social, cooperative creatures, and that their survival depended on that cooperation. This behavior required the setting aside of narrow self-interests in favor of the greater good. Humans, however, also don’t like to be told what to do, and so found a way around this objectionable condition thatContinue reading “The Evolution of Lying”
Shooting Stars – Good Luck or Good Bye?
Who doesn’t marvel at a shooting star, and wonder what it means? Some cultures believe a shooting star represents the soul of a new baby falling to earth, or that a soul has been released from purgatory and can finally ascend to heaven. Some, like seafarers, believe they can predict which way the wind willContinue reading “Shooting Stars – Good Luck or Good Bye?”
The Great Viking Makeover
I am a Viking. I learned this recently when I read that anyone of Scandinavian descent whose name ends in ‘son’ is likely to have Viking blood in their veins. I know it’s probably not very Viking-like of me, but I have been afraid of admitting this possibility to myself forever. I only felt emboldenedContinue reading “The Great Viking Makeover”
Bob Lorentson - An Optimist in Dreamland 