Swearing in excess is just a phase, and by no means a mainstream habit. There will always be movies and works of art that push the extremes, just to do it. That's the point.
Personally, I have found it's a phase. The more you swear the more you learn how to swear, and when it's appropriate. When you first start, you sound like a damned fool. Our culture at large I think reflects this same process. The worst force I see effecting swearing right now is the demonization of it, and that it is somehow worse to say certain words, as if there is a punishing god that cares.:) Worry about what you're saying (and DOING) and not how. I think america is actually doing a great job evolving in this direction.
Yes a product of prison culture, but a product of culture. People are amazing things and they're always evolving. The current fashion has been exported around the world, and some say hip hop may just be the BEST product of US culture, in that it is truly american, original and artistically appreciative. Many of the other cultures and traditions here have built on western, native, eastern, et al roots. In this case, the baggy clothes and the rap style music, it's highly american. Be proud, motherfucker.
Kinda like grunting when takin a shit. For a long time I was also intrigued by that anonymous stranger grunting in the public stall. Was it necessary enough to do in public places? All I can say it, try it for yourself. There's something gratifying that you can't quite put your finger on (and probably wouldn't want to).
And that is exactly how english should be. It turns out fear and demonization are much more common in the western world, largely thanks to western religions, and as such, these ideas have shaped society. I hope it's safe to say we're finally getting over that hump. We shouldn't be ashamed of profanity or naked bodies. If they serve the purpose, let's worry about purpose, and be a more purposeful society.
"marketdroid dickhead" - nice one. You are officially, according to google, the first person to use that phrase on d internets. And excellent usage it was. Channel that anger.
Insightful, not funny. And now, interesting it was modded as such. Are we in deniable about the bogusness of the mainstream political use of the word "terrorism"? Or maybe, is it funny in a sad-but-true sorta way?
Conservation leads to what you might call a taliban society.
Because the Native Americans are just like the Taliban. Kill em all! Wait, that's exactly how America thinks. Hey, are you an American or something? Conservation = Taliban-lke poisonous species. I love it. You will be a serious contender against Palin in the 2012 primaries.
I don't really know the first thing about getting an asteroid into our orbit, but would rockets really be the best way? What about harnessing energy from strategically placed nuclear explosions. We could calculate the minimal trajectory modifications required (versus cost and time) to reach the earths orbit. Even if it takes 50-100 years, if we are persistent, then eventually we'll have a steady flow for mining.
His logic against green roofs was non-existent. Green roofs are a good idea, and not necessarily a maintenance nightmare. You don't need to grow a lush garden with many species, as the author implies in his joking ignorance. There are specific grasses known to minimize problems, and my guess is we'll engineer even better species to make green roofs even more attractive and longer lasting than their asphalt counterparts.
And fewer windows aren't necessarily better. You need to strategically place windows. Try a pergola with vines for green cover in the summer. Also use shade trees to prevent some sun beating down on your roof, and to aid microclimate control in the areas near the house. Further, with proper wind-blocks in the winter, you can change the wind patterns resulting in a more favorable pressure envelope that reduces leakage.
A house isn't just a single structure, but should be designed around it's location. Estimating energy and resource cost is a realistic goal, and if you can't, then don't assume noone can.
If I were a swedish citizen I _would_ vote for someone who bites off more than they can chew. It's better than the opposite - doing nothing - which is the status quo. And the reality is that most political parties do worse than simply doing nothing. I saw an essay when Gerald Ford died claiming he was the best president in the last 50 years simply because he's done less than any other president.
We don't build airplanes with flapping wings either, machines can emulate the functionality of a living being without need to simulate the exact details.
This isn't quite right. You can functionally emulate something. But "functionally" and "emulate" all depend on how complex your model is of that thing. To "approximate the behavior" means we first need to understand the behavior. This requires assumptions. Things can (and do) get complicated quickly.
We aren't responsible enough as a society at viewing all that information fairly to be trusted with it indiscriminately.
And why not? I hear this argument so many times, it has to be one of the greatest unsubstantiated claims of all time. Greatest, in the sense that this logic more than anything else, reinforces our ignorance and our ignorant obedience to the powers that tell the big lie. The problem is that war is a racket, in that few people truly understand what is going on. Not because they can't handle it and it's beneficial, as you unsubstantiatingly suggest, but because if people _really_ knew, there would be mass civilian outrage.
So the real sitaution, perhaps what you mean to say, is this: The government lies all the fuckin time. In order to tell a big lie, big misconceptions must be held by the public to prevent outrage in a "democracy" where people believe they really are in charge (hey, how can we responsibly elect our leaders, if as you suggest, we can't handle the information that our leaders are elected to act upon? A bit of a contradiction that results in leaders electing themselves... sound familiar? You like it this way?)
So now, when information is leaked, big media, which is on the same side as the fuckin government that lies, needs to put their own spin on it. So now you have true stories creating instability because of a backlog of lies, and it appears the true story is creating the problem.
Lucky for you, "We aren't responsible enough as a society" is just not something that you can ever substantiate, so you kinda get a free pass here because I can't prove you're wrong, but the let the record show the tactics you employ to make your case, and what contradictions they imply.
A hero indeed, but for some reason my wife wouldn't let me name our first child after him. What's wrong with the name Smedley? Anyhow, google "smedley butler prescott bush" and you'll find out one of the reasons why Smedley Butler was quickly forgotten by the history books.
So does google track your IP when you log out of gmail, and continue to log your google queries and clicks? Methinks yes, especially after the latest wifi snooping scandal. I bet they even go as far as to have an inference network for public computers, so if you're googling, and then you log into your gmail within, say 5 minutes of the search, then they apply let's say a 50% confidence, or higher depending how closely the "anonymous" queries match your general profile. I know I would do that if I were google, and I were evil, which they are.
My internet was down, unbeknownst to me, and as I attempted to load a few websites in incognito mode, I noticed the favicons were being cached. WTF google? And to think I trusted you with my porn addiction.
the forces that don't allow girls schools have been empowered by US militarism. I guess you left that out perhaps an oversight? And the roads we build, yeah, those are mostly for shipping resources, or perhaps for the rich of that country to use. Seldom the poor. Assuming that we have best interests in mind is what you're "supposed" to believe as a good citizen. Congratulation. Unfortunately, the good citizen is a bad one as far as "informed" and unbiased goes.
Many, perhaps including Chomsky, would argue that the real goal is destabilizing the region. It's easier to exploit a destabilized region. A strong government probably wouldn't let us benefit from their resources as easily.
Remembering is wonderful. Forgetting creates balance. The problem is when memory and forgetfulness are influenced by unbalanced, unchecked forces. In that regard internet is almost instantly better than tv, because you and I can contribute more. That we are unconsciously passing on our own brainwashed influences is of concern, but the hope is this will diminish with the new generation that learns to seek knowledge instead of being spoonfed.
You mean the Dalai Lama? The one who was born into and has embraced his hierarchical role as deity of other humans, humans defined by his religion to serve him (oh yeah, the dalai lama is always a dude too btw)? The one who has received thousands (hundred of thousands actually, depending on your sources) in US tax dollars, in a political game of chess against a greater common enemy, China?
The dude thinks he is a living God. If he had an ounce of the integrity Che possessed, he would put his ass on the line and not be such a pussy living in luxury. I think anybody in his position would have done the same (been scared of china and accept US $$$), but not many in Che's position would do the same.
Some people are already using "humanure" toilets that compost their waste into fertilizer. It's essentially a 5 gallon bucket with a toilet seat and a side bucket of sawdust that you scatter over your waste to kill the smell until it's time to empty. More here.
I suppose it would make sense if we actually had gardens to fertilize and had to worry about the cost of water. Fortunately for the average slashdot reader these are only 3rd world concerns.
"Advancing your personal agenda" is something that all teachers should aspire to. Why should I teach an subject matter if I don't believe the world will benefit? Because of a paycheck? Fuck no, I aint no sell-out. The problem is, most teachers are. And they brainwash just as much, if not more ( because it's more subconscious and systemic ).
And I'm sure Tim Berners Lee will field complaints and encourage formal discussions with any students questioning the subject matter, something that sell-out brainwashing teachers will resist doing. So the real problem here is retarded students who dont know how to question what they're being taught, and in this case, I dont imagine that applies to many of the MIT grads attending this particular course.
indeed. I've noticed my video gaming brethren may drive more aggressively, but I wouldn't describe it as altogether unsafe. They may ride up on your ass and pass with a little less room than your grandma... but I bet they'd fare much better in a 3rd world country or anywhere in southeast asia for instance, where your grandma wouldn't stand a chance.
Gamers have increased skill and awareness, but with that can come a false sense of security. That said, I would definitely trust my life with the world forza champion behind the wheel.
everyone else showing little or no effect from playing these games?
That's bs. The competitiveness of online gaming (typically, the competition is much more impressive than your local group of friends) and spatial awareness required to play these games surely have a tremendous effect on people's regular lives. Personally I've noticed improved awareness when driving, as I scan potential targets on sidewalks and cross streets. I anticipate more. I also have a greater understanding of war and violence from a more hands-on experience, simulated it may be.
Not to mention I am gaining valuable skills to help my country spread freedom by flying a drone or controlling a humanoid robot in future wars of liberation.
Slashdot Mirror
Swearing in excess is just a phase, and by no means a mainstream habit. There will always be movies and works of art that push the extremes, just to do it. That's the point.
Personally, I have found it's a phase. The more you swear the more you learn how to swear, and when it's appropriate. When you first start, you sound like a damned fool. Our culture at large I think reflects this same process. The worst force I see effecting swearing right now is the demonization of it, and that it is somehow worse to say certain words, as if there is a punishing god that cares. :) Worry about what you're saying (and DOING) and not how. I think america is actually doing a great job evolving in this direction.
Yes a product of prison culture, but a product of culture. People are amazing things and they're always evolving. The current fashion has been exported around the world, and some say hip hop may just be the BEST product of US culture, in that it is truly american, original and artistically appreciative. Many of the other cultures and traditions here have built on western, native, eastern, et al roots. In this case, the baggy clothes and the rap style music, it's highly american. Be proud, motherfucker.
Kinda like grunting when takin a shit. For a long time I was also intrigued by that anonymous stranger grunting in the public stall. Was it necessary enough to do in public places? All I can say it, try it for yourself. There's something gratifying that you can't quite put your finger on (and probably wouldn't want to).
And that is exactly how english should be. It turns out fear and demonization are much more common in the western world, largely thanks to western religions, and as such, these ideas have shaped society. I hope it's safe to say we're finally getting over that hump. We shouldn't be ashamed of profanity or naked bodies. If they serve the purpose, let's worry about purpose, and be a more purposeful society.
"marketdroid dickhead" - nice one. You are officially, according to google, the first person to use that phrase on d internets. And excellent usage it was. Channel that anger.
Insightful, not funny. And now, interesting it was modded as such. Are we in deniable about the bogusness of the mainstream political use of the word "terrorism"? Or maybe, is it funny in a sad-but-true sorta way?
Conservation leads to what you might call a taliban society.
Because the Native Americans are just like the Taliban. Kill em all! Wait, that's exactly how America thinks. Hey, are you an American or something? Conservation = Taliban-lke poisonous species. I love it. You will be a serious contender against Palin in the 2012 primaries.
*jesus* So now you're defending the Khmer Rouge. You liberals are all the same and can go to hell.
I'm not quite sure a gun qualifies as a "tool"; I believe "weapon" is the word you're looking for.
Why rockets?
I don't really know the first thing about getting an asteroid into our orbit, but would rockets really be the best way? What about harnessing energy from strategically placed nuclear explosions. We could calculate the minimal trajectory modifications required (versus cost and time) to reach the earths orbit. Even if it takes 50-100 years, if we are persistent, then eventually we'll have a steady flow for mining.
Yeah, the author struck me as an idiot too.
His logic against green roofs was non-existent. Green roofs are a good idea, and not necessarily a maintenance nightmare. You don't need to grow a lush garden with many species, as the author implies in his joking ignorance. There are specific grasses known to minimize problems, and my guess is we'll engineer even better species to make green roofs even more attractive and longer lasting than their asphalt counterparts.
And fewer windows aren't necessarily better. You need to strategically place windows. Try a pergola with vines for green cover in the summer. Also use shade trees to prevent some sun beating down on your roof, and to aid microclimate control in the areas near the house. Further, with proper wind-blocks in the winter, you can change the wind patterns resulting in a more favorable pressure envelope that reduces leakage.
A house isn't just a single structure, but should be designed around it's location. Estimating energy and resource cost is a realistic goal, and if you can't, then don't assume noone can.
If I were a swedish citizen I _would_ vote for someone who bites off more than they can chew. It's better than the opposite - doing nothing - which is the status quo. And the reality is that most political parties do worse than simply doing nothing. I saw an essay when Gerald Ford died claiming he was the best president in the last 50 years simply because he's done less than any other president.
We don't build airplanes with flapping wings either, machines can emulate the functionality of a living being without need to simulate the exact details.
This isn't quite right. You can functionally emulate something. But "functionally" and "emulate" all depend on how complex your model is of that thing. To "approximate the behavior" means we first need to understand the behavior. This requires assumptions. Things can (and do) get complicated quickly.
We aren't responsible enough as a society at viewing all that information fairly to be trusted with it indiscriminately.
And why not? I hear this argument so many times, it has to be one of the greatest unsubstantiated claims of all time. Greatest, in the sense that this logic more than anything else, reinforces our ignorance and our ignorant obedience to the powers that tell the big lie. The problem is that war is a racket, in that few people truly understand what is going on. Not because they can't handle it and it's beneficial, as you unsubstantiatingly suggest, but because if people _really_ knew, there would be mass civilian outrage.
So the real sitaution, perhaps what you mean to say, is this: The government lies all the fuckin time. In order to tell a big lie, big misconceptions must be held by the public to prevent outrage in a "democracy" where people believe they really are in charge (hey, how can we responsibly elect our leaders, if as you suggest, we can't handle the information that our leaders are elected to act upon? A bit of a contradiction that results in leaders electing themselves... sound familiar? You like it this way?)
So now, when information is leaked, big media, which is on the same side as the fuckin government that lies, needs to put their own spin on it. So now you have true stories creating instability because of a backlog of lies, and it appears the true story is creating the problem.
Lucky for you, "We aren't responsible enough as a society" is just not something that you can ever substantiate, so you kinda get a free pass here because I can't prove you're wrong, but the let the record show the tactics you employ to make your case, and what contradictions they imply.
A hero indeed, but for some reason my wife wouldn't let me name our first child after him. What's wrong with the name Smedley? Anyhow, google "smedley butler prescott bush" and you'll find out one of the reasons why Smedley Butler was quickly forgotten by the history books.
So does google track your IP when you log out of gmail, and continue to log your google queries and clicks? Methinks yes, especially after the latest wifi snooping scandal. I bet they even go as far as to have an inference network for public computers, so if you're googling, and then you log into your gmail within, say 5 minutes of the search, then they apply let's say a 50% confidence, or higher depending how closely the "anonymous" queries match your general profile. I know I would do that if I were google, and I were evil, which they are.
My internet was down, unbeknownst to me, and as I attempted to load a few websites in incognito mode, I noticed the favicons were being cached. WTF google? And to think I trusted you with my porn addiction.
the forces that don't allow girls schools have been empowered by US militarism. I guess you left that out perhaps an oversight? And the roads we build, yeah, those are mostly for shipping resources, or perhaps for the rich of that country to use. Seldom the poor. Assuming that we have best interests in mind is what you're "supposed" to believe as a good citizen. Congratulation. Unfortunately, the good citizen is a bad one as far as "informed" and unbiased goes.
Many, perhaps including Chomsky, would argue that the real goal is destabilizing the region. It's easier to exploit a destabilized region. A strong government probably wouldn't let us benefit from their resources as easily.
Remembering is wonderful. Forgetting creates balance. The problem is when memory and forgetfulness are influenced by unbalanced, unchecked forces. In that regard internet is almost instantly better than tv, because you and I can contribute more. That we are unconsciously passing on our own brainwashed influences is of concern, but the hope is this will diminish with the new generation that learns to seek knowledge instead of being spoonfed.
You mean the Dalai Lama? The one who was born into and has embraced his hierarchical role as deity of other humans, humans defined by his religion to serve him (oh yeah, the dalai lama is always a dude too btw)? The one who has received thousands (hundred of thousands actually, depending on your sources) in US tax dollars, in a political game of chess against a greater common enemy, China?
The dude thinks he is a living God. If he had an ounce of the integrity Che possessed, he would put his ass on the line and not be such a pussy living in luxury. I think anybody in his position would have done the same (been scared of china and accept US $$$), but not many in Che's position would do the same.
Some people are already using "humanure" toilets that compost their waste into fertilizer. It's essentially a 5 gallon bucket with a toilet seat and a side bucket of sawdust that you scatter over your waste to kill the smell until it's time to empty. More here.
I suppose it would make sense if we actually had gardens to fertilize and had to worry about the cost of water. Fortunately for the average slashdot reader these are only 3rd world concerns.
"Advancing your personal agenda" is something that all teachers should aspire to. Why should I teach an subject matter if I don't believe the world will benefit? Because of a paycheck? Fuck no, I aint no sell-out. The problem is, most teachers are. And they brainwash just as much, if not more ( because it's more subconscious and systemic ).
And I'm sure Tim Berners Lee will field complaints and encourage formal discussions with any students questioning the subject matter, something that sell-out brainwashing teachers will resist doing. So the real problem here is retarded students who dont know how to question what they're being taught, and in this case, I dont imagine that applies to many of the MIT grads attending this particular course.
indeed. I've noticed my video gaming brethren may drive more aggressively, but I wouldn't describe it as altogether unsafe. They may ride up on your ass and pass with a little less room than your grandma... but I bet they'd fare much better in a 3rd world country or anywhere in southeast asia for instance, where your grandma wouldn't stand a chance.
Gamers have increased skill and awareness, but with that can come a false sense of security. That said, I would definitely trust my life with the world forza champion behind the wheel.
everyone else showing little or no effect from playing these games?
That's bs. The competitiveness of online gaming (typically, the competition is much more impressive than your local group of friends) and spatial awareness required to play these games surely have a tremendous effect on people's regular lives. Personally I've noticed improved awareness when driving, as I scan potential targets on sidewalks and cross streets. I anticipate more. I also have a greater understanding of war and violence from a more hands-on experience, simulated it may be.
Not to mention I am gaining valuable skills to help my country spread freedom by flying a drone or controlling a humanoid robot in future wars of liberation.