In her review of two new books*, Laura Kipnis discusses the distinction between guilt and shame.  (“The Deep, Dark, Ugly Thing,” by Laura Kipnis,  Harper’s, May 2015, pg. 93)  Guilt is an internal standard of personal values. Shame results from a violation of group standards.

While Edward Snowden continues to live a productive life in Russia, he remains an outlaw in his own country.  If he were to return to the United States, he would be prosecuted for revealing government secrets even though a federal court has ruled that the National Security Agency (NS

There’s a line in the Rubaiyat by Omar Khayyam that, in flowery language says,  it would be great if we could remake the world nearer to our heart’s desire. I think it’s a fair objective, particularly as Nature’s design often diverges from my ideal.   If I ruled the world,

Given the complications that arise with electronic software and hardware — its cost, its unpredictable level of service, its arcane instructions, not to mention the cost of maintenance and repair — it’s a wonder that electronics are so popular.  Imagine how many vacuum

The last time Hillary Clinton ran for president, I worked so many long hours for her, she sent me a signed thank you note.  When she lost, I was heartbroken.  This upcoming election, I will support her again, but given a choice, I’d prefer to support Elizabeth Warren.  I admire t

I came across an essay about writers and silence the other day, written by Tillie Olsen in 1965 and reprinted in Harper’s Magazine in May of this year. (“Ways of Being Silent,” by Tillie Olsen, Harper’s Magazine, May 2015, pg. 25)  The theme is one I’ve considered of late (

In a recent celebrity interview, actress Candice Bergen, when asked if she had a motto in life, answered, “Eat dessert first.” (“Proust Questionnaire,” Vanity Fair, May 2015, pg. 174.)  I laughed because hers was a philosophy I could espouse.  Yes, I know pleasure as an end

Not long ago a blog reader unsubscribed because he was furious that I would write about investing in oil stocks.  (Blog 3/30/15)  I wrote back saying that I didn’t think a bet on whether or not a company’s fortunes would rise or fall had much affect on the melting of the polar i

If a robot can become a financial planner, (Blog 4/15/15) can other robotic services be far behind?  House cleaning is a candidate.  A personal secretary is likely.  Maybe even a cook.  How about emotional needs where touch is so important?. (Blog 4/22/15).  Yes, I’m alluding t

“Next to oil, looting is the best-paying sector for Isis…” admits Michael Danti of the U. S. State Department Syrian Heritage initiative.  (“Syria’s Monuments Men” by Bryan Schatz, Mother Jones, May/June 2015, pg. 12.)   What the terrorists don’t destroy, they allow l