From Social Theory and Practice, Eamonn Callan (Stanford): Love, Idolatry, and Patriotism. From Philosophy and Public Affairs, Samuel Scheffler (UC-Berkeley): Immigration and the Significance of Culture. The Second Vermont Republic is seeking to build a separatist movement, but many have been shocked by its ties to racist Southern secessionists. Samuel Bowles on the economics of nice folks. A new discovery proves "selfish gene" exists. It’s mine, I tell you: Mankind’s inner chimpanzee refuses to let go; this matters to everything from economics to law. What does it mean to be human, and can science illuminate the answers? A star-studded panel of scientists gathered to discuss those heady themes. From Utne, a series of articles on creativity. Face it, it's not about talent: In Hollywood, beauty has become its own reward. When did talking go out of style? Obama's professed willingness for diplomacy should be to his credit. Wii all you can be? Why the military needs the gaming industry. A review of John Stuart Mill: Victorian Firebrand by Richard Reeves. A review of Revolution! South America and the Rise of the New Left by Nikolas Kozloff. Are you married? Then do not read this column. An article on the Internet and its Discontents: "The unexamined online life is not worth living". From Cracked, here are 7 innocent gestures that can get you killed overseas.
