Culture

Do People Become More Selfless as They Age?0
- Culture
- April 14, 2020
Looking for something to binge-watch while you’re hunkering down at home? Consider checking out the popular TV show “The Good Place.” Over four recently concluded seasons, the series follows the adventures and mishaps of four utterly self-centered characters on their quest to become decent and selfless human beings. The deeper question this philosophy-laced comedy raises
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Fighting Suicide in the Midst of a Pandemic 0
- Culture
- April 14, 2020
If you’re going to kill yourself, you’re also going to kill the people who love you. ~
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Shaking Hands Is Vital to American National Character 0
- Culture
- April 14, 2020
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, recently told reporters, “I don’t think we should ever shake hands ever again, to be honest with you. Not only would it be good to prevent coronavirus disease; it probably would decrease instances of influenza dramatically in this country.” This view
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Americans No Longer Live Up to the Hidden Messages on Their Coins 0
- Culture
- April 13, 2020
Old coins are one of the closest things we have to buried treasure these days. There’s a thrill in finding something rare and valuable. I experienced that thrill every time I found a wheat penny in the jug of coins I sorted through one hot summer afternoon as a 10-year-old. My sister likely had a
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Releasing Fear During the COVID-19 Crisis 0
- Culture
- April 13, 2020
“The world is too much with us,” wrote Wordsworth. Today, frightened by continuous coverage of COVID-19, few would disagree. “What you focus on creates your experience,” writes Winifred Gallagher in her book Rapt: Attention and the Focused Life. Gallagher continues, “choosing those targets wisely is the key to the good life.” Gallagher wouldn’t advise ignoring COVID-19, yet
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Fear and Freedom Are Always Enemies 0
- Culture
- April 9, 2020
The motto of the state of Virginia is Sic Semper Tyrannis, or “Thus always to tyrants.” The great seal of this state depicts a prostrate tyrant under the heel of Virtus, the goddess of virtue. Given our present situation, I propose we adapt a new motto and seal: a pen-waving politician crushing Virtus with the words Sic
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