Off the Mark

   Ellul says that "the better adapted man is, the more tolerant and liberal the system can act toward him.  The more he conforms, the less constraint has to be used." (Ellul, 1980, 109) He makes this claim while discussing flexibility as a feature of the technological system.  Ellul says that as long as man [...]

[Read more →]

Other than it keeps people and goods moving in our corporate-driven world, why is it that we tolerate companies like AOL/TimeWarner and their proliferation of trash?  I am not referring to any specific intellectual property that they issue, although one could argue that they issue plenty of intellectual pap.  No, my point is the massive [...]

[Read more →]

You really should read this man’s sweet, sweet words.
His book reviews make me want to read books that I know I’m not really interested in, and I have read several of his recommendations.  All good.   His insight into other issues is incredible and he often leaves me crying.   I sure wish I could [...]

[Read more →]

I am not necessarily the biggest fan of pop culture but this is great!
More Google
Be sure to click on the More Googles Here link for even more.  I have to say I like Richard’s choice of this one though.  And if you like pop culture be sure to check out his blog. 
I found this [...]

[Read more →]

OK, I promised myself that I would not get myself embroiled in these sorts of things.  I need to be doing homework.  Furthering my own education is more important than trying to convince hateful, racist, bigots that they should get some before opening their mouths.
Plus, I’m probably just going to draw them to me [...]

[Read more →]

Just posted a comment in reply to another very rude one at  Sivacracy.net

I know I shouldn’t take the bait from idiots like these.   And yes, one could argue that I stooped to the same level.   Maybe I did but I’m not convinced that I see it that way.   I have absolutely no doubt that Siva [...]

[Read more →]

Today in my school newspaper (Daily Illini) I read that the tax-free "death gratuity" is being raised from $12,420 to $100,000 and that an extra $150,000 in insurance would be paid.  Being a college newspaper, or maybe just a newspaper period, it was short on details.
Before I go any further, let me state clearly and [...]

[Read more →]

Yeah, success!  I finally got a banner uploaded and pointed to.  Small strides are worth celebrating on occasion—I may have to go get myself a fresh cookie or two before I go back to work.
Now I need an even better banner.  I’m just learning graphics so bear with me and I have a limited selection [...]

[Read more →]