Monday, February 27, 2012

On Language

This morning there was a very well-written article on the topic of free speech on one of my favorite websites, Big Think.
There is no good reason for us to ban swearing nor to arrest people for using the term. Presumably, we can make informed decisions as to whether there is merit to the individual cases of swearing. For example, the words “knife”, “cut” and “children” are not so bad – but we can easily formulate a sentence, use a harsh or threatening voice, and use those words to constitute an actual threat. But we don’t ban the words “knife”, “cut” and “children”. The problem isn’t the words but the context or sentence in which they are used. It is true that expletives perhaps are often inappropriate, but that only means one must be more socially aware or a better writer. To say that all swearwords all the time require government intervention is to submit to bills being written in crayon.

No Words Should Be Banned | Against the New Taboo | Big Think

Monday, February 13, 2012

Flow State

We mentioned the "Flow State" in class today. I mentioned an article on it.
Specifically about sending electrical currents through certain parts of the brain to induce the flow state.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Happiness in Three Sentences

Happiness is elbow room.

Happiness is good company.

Happiness is being yourself.