Academic Flotsam
Capturing Oneself: Photography, Sketches, and Staying True
“There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs.” — Ansel Adams
The Body of God: Wright, Serre, and Nature Study
Those who read philosophy will often notice a recurring mention of nature. Thomas Hobbes and John Locke have their states of nature. Hegel has a philosophy of nature. Nietzsche stresses the importance of interpreting nature. Ancient Chinese philosophers see the structure of language as being reflective of the structure of nature. This is an arbitrarily formed list: Readers will surely have other examples spring to mind. This incessant talk of nature throughout the history of the field of philosophy should serve as a tip off that nature is worth thinking about.
Why Are There So Many Kinds of Tray Returns?
“One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats, and if some of these can be inexpensive and quickly procured so much the better.” — Iris Murdoch
Avoiding the Wait: Leaning In, Zooming Out
One of the silliest memories I have of my younger brother is him walking in the field below our house on the day before his birthday. He excitedly exclaimed, “I cannot wait for Christmas!” My father and I broke out laughing, “Lowell! Your birthday is tomorrow, why don’t we enjoy that first?” My brother’s response was not one of greed, but rather of excitement for the build up to the holiday. In other words, he was ready to be ready for Christmas.
God, Beetles, and Being Present
“Ants are everywhere, but only occasionally noticed.”
