Dear Daughters, Here’s one of my pet theories: Every person has at least one art. And regularly spending time on your art is hugely important, for adults as much as for children. “I don’t know,” you may say. “I don’t really think of myself as artistic.” Trust me, you are, though it’s possible you haven’t …
Category: Musings
Nothing Much and the Center of Everything
A brief reflection on the otherworldly importance of each of us—and why you should do your homework.
What Changed Your Mind?
The most important mind-changers aren't nuggets you'll note in a TED talk or even lessons you'll learn from a book. They're experiences that change who you are.
Does the Data Really Know?
We increasingly expect “the data” to guide us. But what do they really know?
What Is Patriotism?
Here are some thoughts on a crucial current topic. Not my thoughts. The thoughts of one of America's original patriots.
Why Can’t I Just Make Up My Own Mind?
Because your mind is basically a hypersensitive elephant with an untrained rider on top.
How Small Is “Nano” Small?
You probably know that nanotechnology operates at very small scales. But just how small is “nano” small? Let's look for a little perspective.
Why Do We Keep So Much Stuff?
Keep less. Delete more. Live better.
Are the New Ways Better than the Old, or Vice Versa?
In adolescence, we all seek to innovate. By middle age, we're more likely to like traditions. And in some ways, we're right all along.
What Metrics Should We Use to Measure Success?
Metrics are powerful tools, but they often miss crucial truths.