MSNBC reports that funding may be cut off for the Arecibo Observatory. But among astronomers, Arecibo is an icon of hard science. Its instruments have netted a decades-long string of discoveries about the structure and evolution of the universe. Its high-powered radar has mapped in exquisite detail the surfaces and interiors of neighboring planets. ….
… at least according to this test. (HT: TheoPoetic Musings, who also turned out to be a secular humanist, though not quite as much of one as I am.) I scored 62 of 166, 37% which makes me a secular humanist! The interesting thing about this test was that I had a hard time deciding…
I think we all draw boundary lines between those with whom we disagree, yet consider valid voices in our culture or community, and those whose views we think are so far off the map that conversation cannot continue. For many Americans, Dr. Jeremiah Wright has fallen into the second category. I would suggest, however, that…
They took the time to condemn the [tag]MoveOn.org[/tag] Ad on General [tag]Petraeus[/tag] (LA Times story). Now I don’t like the ad, and I don’t particularly like MoveOn.org, and I think private groups and politicians should go ahead and do all the condemning that the ad deserves. Though I’m an opponent of the war in Iraq,…
When I was near the end of my first four year enlistment in the United States Air Force, I had already made a firm decision to separate at four years, which I proclaimed quite vigorously. But during the last few weeks I read some things about decision making–I can’t recall where–and I decided to rationally…
I clarify my stance on Christian involvement in politics, emphasizing that while individual engagement is important, I prioritize meaningful advocacy over quantity of political posts. I advocate for informed voting and respectful dialogue rather than promoting specific candidates or issues, urging others to participate thoughtfully in the democratic process.
Thanks for this clip. When people are in power and doing a good job (in their profession) – and are likeable – it probably happens more often than we know – turning a deaf ear, making a very weak response and soothing one’s conscience, apples and oranges (I’m a great coach – this is not my responsibility) – on and on. Of course, it was Paterno’s responsibility – and others’ who knew what was happening. When did coming to the aid of a victim and calling the police and “risking” the reputation of a sports team become the norm? Always, always the disadvantaged, vulnerable, minorities – and, yes, people in high places – can be victimized. Witnesses and people who know and keep silent are as guilty as the perpetrator.
There is nobody whose reputation and position entitles them to avoid accountability. I’m just glad someone eventually brought it all to light!