As You See (Lessons from Surfing #5)
I paddled out to the lineup on a mediocre day and found a leathery old bald guy* surfing alone on a tiny shortboard**. “How is… Read More »As You See (Lessons from Surfing #5)
Not long ago; or, Little by little (8): Singapore market, early 1970s
This and other scenes from Singapore in the 70s in Singapore, My Singapore highlights how much places and cultures can change in a generation. Also:… Read More »Not long ago; or, Little by little (8): Singapore market, early 1970s
Steven Pinker on writing in the classic style
The guiding metaphor of classic style is seeing the world. The writer can see something that the reader has not yet noticed, and he orients… Read More »Steven Pinker on writing in the classic style
On sharpening frogs; or, Crockham’s Razor
I shave with a mildew-encrusted Gillette, changing my blade about every three months. The blades work well long after their suggested shelf life, and I… Read More »On sharpening frogs; or, Crockham’s Razor
Natura non facit sultum*: Lant Pritchett on poverty lines
The momentum seems to be building for a goal to “eradicate poverty by 2030.” Reducing poverty is a noble goal, one to which I fully… Read More »Natura non facit sultum*: Lant Pritchett on poverty lines
Thesis: Interpersonal Conflict
“Most conflict in relationships is caused by unshared and unmet expectations.” Discuss for your team / friendship / organisation / family / building project /… Read More »Thesis: Interpersonal Conflict
Design matters (14): stackable 6 litre water bottle by Singha
Singha (of Thai beer fame) – getting better every day.
Karl Marx on the power of capitalism and globalisation
David Harvey and Schumpeter both point out Marx’s enormous admiration of the dynamism and power of capitalism, even as he sought to destroy it. This… Read More »Karl Marx on the power of capitalism and globalisation
Three truths about global development and progress from Max Roser
From a nice piece on the Our World in Data blog, with some helpful data points, here. See also: Max Roser: defining global development Our… Read More »Three truths about global development and progress from Max Roser
Lant Pritchett on Poverty, Economic Growth and Charity
I’ve never read anything by Lant Pritchett that wasn’t interesting, and this brief blog article is no exception. It’s a good reminder that “broad based… Read More »Lant Pritchett on Poverty, Economic Growth and Charity