This is the fifth in a series called “Argue Better 2021” about how we can improve how we argue, discuss, and engage with each other. If you missed the previous entries, you can find them here: first | second | third | fourth People tell me that I look like my brother. I don't see … Continue reading Build Agreement (Argue Better 2021 #5)
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Impact vs intent
He was hurt by someone, and he's mad about it. How could this have happened? They must have done it on purpose, they deserve to be punished. She was just trying to be funny. Yes, someone's feelings got hurt, and she's sorry about that. But why can't they just accept her apology? It was a … Continue reading Impact vs intent
Getting into a good college is nothing to be proud of
As school is starting, incoming high school seniors (my son among them) are ramping up their college application process. The parental hope is that our kids will make it into their desired school. If only they can do that, all will be right with the world! We will have achieved the ultimate in parenting, and … Continue reading Getting into a good college is nothing to be proud of
The default
Companies know that there is power in default choices. When you sign up, they default your choice to agree to receive advertising emails from them. They also default to the option that your contract will renew at the end of your subscription period. Whenever possible, they make the choices for you (repeat last order? same … Continue reading The default
The importance of a hill of beans
I brought out a DVD of Casablanca (purchased in 1995) and watched it with my kids. Surprisingly they enjoyed a movie made nearly 80 years ago. If I had watched an 80-year-old movie when I was in high school, it would have been silent. Probably not as enjoyable. What is Casablanca about? Very few people … Continue reading The importance of a hill of beans
The challenge of collective action
As I write this, we are in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Collective action - when we all act together - is playing out in the headlines, as we watch from isolation. Collective action comes in various forms: Constructive collective action, with people keeping social distance and stores and businesses doing what they can … Continue reading The challenge of collective action
How I Journal
It's a new year, and with it comes resolutions. I resolve to re-invigorate this blog, which has languished in the throes of a new job and new life patterns. For me, a new year also means cracking open a new journal. I have tried, on and off, to keep a diary or journal since 1983. In … Continue reading How I Journal
