A news and comment blog dealing in the mundane, the profound, and everything in between.

1.11.11

Early Edition

1. More on Free Will & The Human Brain
A piece from the New York Times on neuroscientist Dr. Michael Gazzaniga and his studies on brain function, free will and the applications of neuroscience to society and our legal system. His new book, "Who's In Charge: Free Will and the Science of the Brain," may be an excellent resource for the ongoing debate on free will amongst us.

2. Yet Another Way the World Might End
This from the Atlantic, a bit hysterical but looks at the ways in which misunderstandings between the US and China could lead to nuclear war (basically a retread of any number of articles one might have read circa 1969). I'm actually surprised this article didn't discuss the far more plausible cyberwar situation that could lead to tactical nuclear strikes or accidental launch.

3. Listen, I'm a Journalist. Don't Ask Me For Details.
I love how there's so much interest in protecting the identities of the accusers in this Cain "scandal" but no regard whatsoever in protecting the reputation of Cain himself from unsubstantiated slander. That aside, I'm pleased the gentleman behind "breaking" this story is honest enough to admit that he's not interested in clarifying any of the details in these allegations.