The Death of Expertise, and other problems...

The Death of Expertise explains a lot about our current social and political climate. Tom Nichols wrote this sobering book in 2017. Recent political discussions reminded me I'd always meant to read it. Wish I'd done so six years ago. It contains valuable lessons for the common person young and old, teachers and administrators in higher education, social media producers and consumers, journalist and their publishers, and of course experts who are not above mistake. An updated 2nd edition is due out in April 2024; I've pre-ordered my copy from our local bookseller. This copy is on the way to one of my favorite relatives...

Another Important Read

I recently purchased and read a copy of "Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present" by scholar Ruth Ben-Ghiat  I've heard several interviews with her lately and believe she's on to something to which we all must pay careful attention. While many are drawing parallels between our current political climate and 1930s Germany, Ben-Ghiat makes a compelling case that 1920s Italy may be more instructive. 

PS I bought my copy from Peregrine Book Company. If we want local we must buy local.

A hike to the summit of our local volcano

Vicky Hall and I had a hike up (and down) Glassford Hill midday Sunday. These remains of a 12-14 million year old volcanic eruption offer a 4.7 mile (7.5 km) round trip ascending (and descending) 900 feet (275 m) via seven or eight switchbacks..