DrHGuy Cyber-Bookmarks: 02 November 2006
Cyber-Bookmarks From DrHGuy are annotated links to arguably worthwhile, recently published online reading, new or revised websites of potential utility or ostensible interest, and other internet-accessible experiences that, were it not for the casually collected, cavalierly collated, & capriciously collocated components comprising these posts, could easily be overlooked – which would be, in some cases, a shame,
Readings
Tough Guy With Friend in High Places Janet Maslin, New York Times. 2 Nov 2006
This book review of David Maine’s “The Book Of Samson,” focuses on the validity of this biblical tale for the contemporary world. (I also like the snarky title of the review although I think “Place” would work better in terms of parallel structure than “Places.”) This is the third of this author’s audacious novels that remain true to the spirit and themes of the Old Testament texts on which they are based, yet still manage to disrupt the reader’s (at least this reader’s) assumptions about the narrative’s destination. Maine’s previous books are “The Preservationist” (the story of Noah) and “Fallen” (Adam & Eve, et al with chronological twists).
The Word on Warranties: Don’t Bother by David Joachim, New York Times 1 Nov 2006
The title is the story. Warranties aren’t warranted for most electronic purchases. This is an especially appropriate and worthwhile read prior to purchasing those holiday gifts.
How the Web Prevents Rape; All that Internet porn reduces sex crimes. Really. By Steven E. Landsburg Slate 30 Oct 2006
This is one column in an ongoing Slate.com series, “Everyday Economics,” that looks at social phenomena from an economic point of view, often drawing provocative conclusions These essays are almost always enlightening and occasionally convincing enough to shift the reader’s perspective. (Another recent example worth perusing is Starbucks Economics – Solving the mystery of the elusive “short” cappuccino.)
Web Sites
Congress In 30 Seconds DIY Political Ad
This is your chance to audition for political strategist. Take on Karl Rove, become the new James Carville, support a cause, go negative on your opponents, … . On this site, provided by The Sunlight Network, a good-government group, visitors use the browser-based, drop and drag video editor to incorporate video, music, and text components provided to craft a 30 second political ad that can be uploaded to the site and emailed to delight your friends or terrify your political enemies. When I last checked, there were 338 such commercials posted. The interface is intuitive enough that even those with no experience should be able to operate it. It’s great fun and legitimately instructive.
Your Disease Risk
The hip & trendy site – and by all account, the best site — for calculating ones risk of disease. Currently, assessments are available for 12 cancers, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. The questions are sophisticated and thorough, the calculations are based on scientific studies, and the mechanisms and data are regularly updated.
No Comments so far ↓
Like gas stations in rural Texas after 10 pm, comments are closed.