Like everyone else I know in the tribe of working journalists, I think being sceptical is a useful, if not indispensable tool of the trade, and tend to dispute being a cynic. But I’m beginning to think both journalists and news consumers have reason and need to embrace the two philosophies.… Read the rest
Humans top a list of 30 creatures that possess what has been called the “God-given gift” of intelligence, of which there are more than 70 accepted definitions. However, thanks to a combination of skewed values, lack of empathy and just plain ignorance, we’re in danger of slipping down in the ratings.… Read the rest
Depressing as headlines shouting ad nauseum about Covid, the crisis in Ukraine and U.S. politics etc are, there is something in the world to celebrate — the anniversary of an accomplishment worthy of Hamlet’s famous line: “What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty!… Read the rest
Given that it was defined by Covid, I doubt that anyone will mourn the passing of 2021, although many of us may experience a twinge or two of regret as we contemplate one less year in our allotted time. In the Monty Pythonesque spirit of “always look on the bright side of life”, herewith some musings on wasting time by trying to fight its passage.… Read the rest