When does a man cry?
When the hurt is beyond words?
No- in emptiness.
When the hurt is beyond words?
No- in emptiness.
A Possible Future
1 month ago
3.08.2008
3.05.2008
Global warming? Global warming!
Global warming is occurring- it's a fact. The argument was, and always has been, the extent of the human impact on global warming. Everyone is familiar with the An Inconvenient Truth version of the story: the human impact of (among other things) deforestation, emission of greenhouse gases and over-exploitation of natural resources is contributing to accelerating global warming. We, according to this argument, can reverse our input if proactive action is used. The consequences can be as drastic as a change in society as we know it.
The other side of the coin is the argument that global warming is a part of an natural oscillation in mean global temperature that can be seen in ice records- there's nothing humans can do to reverse it and the human impact on this process is negligible.
Most scientists (economists are not scientists!) are on board with the first half of the argument. They generally acknowledge the natural oscillations of mean global temperature but they stress the human impact in accelerating this process. This is the mainstream point of view.
Unfortunately, there are many people who completely reject the first and the popular opinions. One of these is the founder of the Weather Channel, John Coleman. He's bought into the second opinion (humans have a negligible effect on global warming).
***
The other side of the coin is the argument that global warming is a part of an natural oscillation in mean global temperature that can be seen in ice records- there's nothing humans can do to reverse it and the human impact on this process is negligible.
Most scientists (economists are not scientists!) are on board with the first half of the argument. They generally acknowledge the natural oscillations of mean global temperature but they stress the human impact in accelerating this process. This is the mainstream point of view.
Unfortunately, there are many people who completely reject the first and the popular opinions. One of these is the founder of the Weather Channel, John Coleman. He's bought into the second opinion (humans have a negligible effect on global warming).
***
Okay, my turn to talk.
Let’s just think for a second. We can think of the costs and the benefits of acting and not acting against global warming- a cost-benefit analysis if you will. We have four possible outcomes of global warming generally speaking, two for the extent of the effects of global warming and two for the measures (the costs) against global warming. It's only worth looking at the best and worst case scenarios for both because everything else will be in-between.
For the effects of global warming, the best case scenario is nothing happens. Global warming was, was hysterical paranoia, nothing happens; the climate remains the same for the next 1000 years. We'll call this "minimal global warming."
The worst case scenario for the effects of global warming ends with the end of society as we know it. Increasing global temperatures lead to the melting of the ice caps, which, in-turn, leads to major flooding- perhaps as far as wiping islands (like Manhattan or Long Island) off the map altogether. These changes in turn affect climate and weather patters around the world, making traditional staple-grain producing plains unsuitable. These interact together killing off billions of people world wide from flooding and hunger leading to a massive crisis and fundamentally changes in how society is structured from then on. We'll call this "maximum global warming."
For measures taken against global warming, the minimum is not changing anything- the status quo. No extra costs for making
The worse case scenario for measures taken against global warming is a complete overhaul in making everything 'green.' Taxes go up, billions of dollars (say 15% of GDP) are redirected towards researching energy resources that do not contribute greenhouse gases (like renewable energy, 'clean' coal and nuclear), funding subsidies to help consumers ease the transitions (perhaps offering a very large tax deduction for installing personal solar panels or something), and provide aide funding and research to developing nations that contribute vast amounts of greenhouse gases (like China and India). We'll call this "maximum cost."
The best case scenario in the end is “minimal global warming” with “minimum cost” – the status quo is maintained at no extra cost to anyone. The absolute worst case scenario is “maximum global warming” with “minimum cost” – here nothing is done as society itself may crumble as we know it.
The other two possible combinations of outcomes are not as undesirable as the absolute worst case scenario. If “maximum global warming” occurred with “maximum cost,” the hope is that minimizing of greenhouse gases and creating a more ‘green’ society assuaged some of the pressures of global warming – some changes would have occurred due to global warming, but the effects wouldn’t have been as bad had nothing been done - society can go on. If “minimal global warming” occurred with “maximum cost,” the only thing is lost money – this is not as bad as society as we know it crumbling.
Alright, so what’s my point? The extent of the true effects of global warming isn’t something anyone has real control over. What we do have control over is the cost against global warming. Both scenarios where there was a measure of cost against global warming were taken resulted in outcomes that weren’t the most undesirable outcomes. Yes, it was a “minimal cost” scenario that produced the best possible outcome, but it also had the worst possible outcome as well. By not even considering the mere possibility of the effects of global warming, you’re turning the entire thing into a coin flip between best and worst case scenarios. Wouldn’t it be better if you were guaranteed a scenario that didn’t end with the possible dissolution of society as we know it? The only part of this thought experiment we can actually control is the cost of taking measures against global warming.
The absolute worst things that will happen is that spending in the
Plus at the very least, such spending should end
It's hard to be funny.
I've got a small stand up gig tomorrow. Just a small five minute set amongst about 12 others. Just five minutes....
Do you have any idea how hard it is to be funny, by yourself, for 5 minutes? It's really hard man. The tendency is that once you get up on stage, you see the audience. They all have the expectation that you'll be funny, that you'll tell jokes. They're all sitting up there silently judging you- the first move you make is the most important.
How will I start this off? Which joke should I start with? Can I really commit now that I'm up here? What- when- who- how?
DANCE, MONKEY, DANCE!!
That's how I feel. Jesus, it's stressful.
To make things worse- I feel like my material for tomorrow sucks. Wish me luck tomorrow.
Here's my first stand up bit- EVER:
Do you have any idea how hard it is to be funny, by yourself, for 5 minutes? It's really hard man. The tendency is that once you get up on stage, you see the audience. They all have the expectation that you'll be funny, that you'll tell jokes. They're all sitting up there silently judging you- the first move you make is the most important.
How will I start this off? Which joke should I start with? Can I really commit now that I'm up here? What- when- who- how?
DANCE, MONKEY, DANCE!!
That's how I feel. Jesus, it's stressful.
To make things worse- I feel like my material for tomorrow sucks. Wish me luck tomorrow.
Here's my first stand up bit- EVER:
3.04.2008
3.02.2008
Ten Best Movies that go well with Coffee
I was bored and I decided to make a top 10 list of something I think I know a little something about. Keep in mind, this is a very limited list due to it's by me- a single person with his own personal biases and limitations (like all those movies I haven't seen- sorry no "Coffee and Cigarettes" in this list).
Without any further adieu, I give you the Ten Best Movies that go well with Coffee.
Generally, I'm going to be choosing a specific type of movie right? I mean, what would go well with a 2-hour long drinking of coffee? A couple of things I think of that are necessary are thought provoking stories, dialogue the way we wish we'd all speak, a defining stylistic ambiance in the film, and other general fodder for conversation- over a cup of joe.
10. "Fight Club" (1999) by Dave Fincher
I had a hard time deciding to put this in here. The theme is thought provoking- an anarchistic rebellion against contemporary consumer culture. There's also that crazy mindfuck of a twist- but I'm not so sure this is such a good thing. The movie is quite intense with the fighting. Will caffeine help you deal with that? I can't say. Well, at least anarchy is still a coffee-cup topic of conversation.
9. "There Will Be Blood" (2007) by PT Anderson
This is all about the dialogue. Daniel Day-Lewis' character is so over-the-top. This film has produced the latest in the long line of cinematic catchphrases. But beyond the dialogue, there's more to be engrossed by. The themes of insanity and Johnny Greenwood's score are things that should put your caffeine buzz to good use.
8. "Withnail and I" (1987) by Bruce Robinson
This is a highly underrated British comedy. Here, it's all about the quick and witty banter between the number of characters we see throughout the film. The best thing about the conversation is that none of it feels contrived (yes, I'm looking right at you Juno). All of it is natural and completely believable coming from the characters. Given a cup of coffee, there'll be enough great lines for you to stew over.
7. "No Country for Old Men" (2007) by the Cohen Brothers
When discussing this movie, make sure your coffee is as dark as you can take it. This movie is so wonderfully dark- it's outlook on life is pessimistic and nihilistic. Doesn't that sound like something hipsters in coffee shops would talk about while flexing their philosophies? Everything about the film only goes to accent this dark and nihilistic outlook- from the soundtrack, the conversation, the acting- everything. Also, it doesn't hurt that it was the best film made last year.
6. "The Lives of Others" (2006) by Florian Henckel von Donnorsmarck
Compared to the previous films, this film has a more positive outlook on things. Themes tackled in this movie contribute to it's agreeable tendencies with coffee. Things like the nature of love, the nature of obedience and duty, the notion between right and wrong, rebelling against a corrupt institution- all such perfect things to discuss over a cup of coffee. The pacing of the film also contrasts nicely with a caffeine buzz- it's very deliberate and gives the viewer enough time to soak the entire scene in.
5. "Amelie" (2001) by Jean Pierre-Jeunet
This is the happiest film on this list. Carefree is the adjective to use here. Between the colors, the soundtrack, the voiceovers, and those little asides that are sprinkled throughout the film, this is quite the charming and carefree film. Of course the big theme of conversation here is love. The Frenchness of this film feeds well into the coffee-shop intellectual culture that spawned from France in the 18th century.
4. "Wild Strawberries" (1957) by Ingmar Bergman
The first Bergman film on this list, this is a very deep introspective film. Dealing with themes like love, loss and nostalgia to tickle the juices in the brain, this film is where it's at. This is one of those films where afterwards, one has the urge to make a new insight into oneself. Considering that's one of the many favorite pasttimes of coffee-drinkers, this film makes the list quite well.
3. "Reservoir Dogs" (1992) by Quentin Tarantino
Want to see an example of great dialogue in a film? This is it. The dialogue is second to none. It's not particularly realistic, but at the same time it's not as contrived as you'd think. Also given the high-strung mood, there's a kind of sick dark humor throughout the film. More than anything else, it's the style of this film that makes it so appealing to coffee. Cheap black suits, thin black ties, and Ray Ban Wayfarer sunglasses- throw that in with some entertaining dialogue and you have something you'll enjoy talking about.
2. "The Seventh Seal" (1957) by Ingmar Bergman
Remember what I said about Bergman's other film? Take that and now throw in the question of "Does God exist?" instead of your boring ol' life. It's existential examination into what the nature of religion, God and salvation is. That's not even mentioning the amazingly classic characters that have been satirized to the point of staleness (like Death). This is one of those films where you always pick up something new about it every time you watch it- it never gets old. The film seems to entice almost a cathartic flow of existential and generally philosophic thought into any viewer's mind. Great to hold over coffee conversations.
1. "Annie Hall" (1977) by Woody Allen
The best film for coffee conversation in my opinion. The film in itself is a coffee conversation by Woody Allen about relationships through his semi-autobiographic character. The little asides throughout the film, literally looking into the memories of Alvy Singer, are captivating. It's funny, the conversation is great, there are memorable characters and lines, unique ways of presenting what's going on (like subtitling what the characters are actually thinking while carrying on a fluffy conversation). The film as a whole has very subtle charms while talking about one of the most vexing human emotions.
And with this list, I enter the ranks of pretentiousness. Thank you. Until next time...
Without any further adieu, I give you the Ten Best Movies that go well with Coffee.
Generally, I'm going to be choosing a specific type of movie right? I mean, what would go well with a 2-hour long drinking of coffee? A couple of things I think of that are necessary are thought provoking stories, dialogue the way we wish we'd all speak, a defining stylistic ambiance in the film, and other general fodder for conversation- over a cup of joe.
10. "Fight Club" (1999) by Dave Fincher
I had a hard time deciding to put this in here. The theme is thought provoking- an anarchistic rebellion against contemporary consumer culture. There's also that crazy mindfuck of a twist- but I'm not so sure this is such a good thing. The movie is quite intense with the fighting. Will caffeine help you deal with that? I can't say. Well, at least anarchy is still a coffee-cup topic of conversation.
9. "There Will Be Blood" (2007) by PT Anderson
This is all about the dialogue. Daniel Day-Lewis' character is so over-the-top. This film has produced the latest in the long line of cinematic catchphrases. But beyond the dialogue, there's more to be engrossed by. The themes of insanity and Johnny Greenwood's score are things that should put your caffeine buzz to good use.
8. "Withnail and I" (1987) by Bruce Robinson
This is a highly underrated British comedy. Here, it's all about the quick and witty banter between the number of characters we see throughout the film. The best thing about the conversation is that none of it feels contrived (yes, I'm looking right at you Juno). All of it is natural and completely believable coming from the characters. Given a cup of coffee, there'll be enough great lines for you to stew over.
7. "No Country for Old Men" (2007) by the Cohen Brothers
When discussing this movie, make sure your coffee is as dark as you can take it. This movie is so wonderfully dark- it's outlook on life is pessimistic and nihilistic. Doesn't that sound like something hipsters in coffee shops would talk about while flexing their philosophies? Everything about the film only goes to accent this dark and nihilistic outlook- from the soundtrack, the conversation, the acting- everything. Also, it doesn't hurt that it was the best film made last year.
6. "The Lives of Others" (2006) by Florian Henckel von Donnorsmarck
Compared to the previous films, this film has a more positive outlook on things. Themes tackled in this movie contribute to it's agreeable tendencies with coffee. Things like the nature of love, the nature of obedience and duty, the notion between right and wrong, rebelling against a corrupt institution- all such perfect things to discuss over a cup of coffee. The pacing of the film also contrasts nicely with a caffeine buzz- it's very deliberate and gives the viewer enough time to soak the entire scene in.
5. "Amelie" (2001) by Jean Pierre-Jeunet
This is the happiest film on this list. Carefree is the adjective to use here. Between the colors, the soundtrack, the voiceovers, and those little asides that are sprinkled throughout the film, this is quite the charming and carefree film. Of course the big theme of conversation here is love. The Frenchness of this film feeds well into the coffee-shop intellectual culture that spawned from France in the 18th century.
4. "Wild Strawberries" (1957) by Ingmar Bergman
The first Bergman film on this list, this is a very deep introspective film. Dealing with themes like love, loss and nostalgia to tickle the juices in the brain, this film is where it's at. This is one of those films where afterwards, one has the urge to make a new insight into oneself. Considering that's one of the many favorite pasttimes of coffee-drinkers, this film makes the list quite well.
3. "Reservoir Dogs" (1992) by Quentin Tarantino
Want to see an example of great dialogue in a film? This is it. The dialogue is second to none. It's not particularly realistic, but at the same time it's not as contrived as you'd think. Also given the high-strung mood, there's a kind of sick dark humor throughout the film. More than anything else, it's the style of this film that makes it so appealing to coffee. Cheap black suits, thin black ties, and Ray Ban Wayfarer sunglasses- throw that in with some entertaining dialogue and you have something you'll enjoy talking about.
2. "The Seventh Seal" (1957) by Ingmar Bergman
Remember what I said about Bergman's other film? Take that and now throw in the question of "Does God exist?" instead of your boring ol' life. It's existential examination into what the nature of religion, God and salvation is. That's not even mentioning the amazingly classic characters that have been satirized to the point of staleness (like Death). This is one of those films where you always pick up something new about it every time you watch it- it never gets old. The film seems to entice almost a cathartic flow of existential and generally philosophic thought into any viewer's mind. Great to hold over coffee conversations.
1. "Annie Hall" (1977) by Woody Allen
The best film for coffee conversation in my opinion. The film in itself is a coffee conversation by Woody Allen about relationships through his semi-autobiographic character. The little asides throughout the film, literally looking into the memories of Alvy Singer, are captivating. It's funny, the conversation is great, there are memorable characters and lines, unique ways of presenting what's going on (like subtitling what the characters are actually thinking while carrying on a fluffy conversation). The film as a whole has very subtle charms while talking about one of the most vexing human emotions.
And with this list, I enter the ranks of pretentiousness. Thank you. Until next time...
3.01.2008
Haiku- 1
I did this for about two weeks on my facebook notes. I think I'll do this every so often.
Can it be described?
Moments of joy in the soul-
Yes, this is laughter!
Moments of joy in the soul-
Yes, this is laughter!
Song of the Week- 3/1/08
This week I give you "Wonderlust King" by Gogol Bordello.
I figured we all needed a little infusion of Gypsy Punk. Now, I'm not quite sure if Gogol Bordello is an individual or the name of this band. Whatever it is, it's freaking awesome isn't it? Gogol Bordello is fun [period]. Listen to the song carefully and listen to the weird instruments. We have fiddles, an accordion, acoustic nylon-stringed guitars, drums played with brushes- it's an unfamiliar sound to most listeners isn't it? The best is the lead singer's- umm- "singing." That accent is hilarious as well as gloriously epic. Would it surprise you if I also told you that Gogol Bordello's live show is amazing and full of energy? I've never had the glory to see these guys live but I hope I can one day. Until next week, enjoy!
I figured we all needed a little infusion of Gypsy Punk. Now, I'm not quite sure if Gogol Bordello is an individual or the name of this band. Whatever it is, it's freaking awesome isn't it? Gogol Bordello is fun [period]. Listen to the song carefully and listen to the weird instruments. We have fiddles, an accordion, acoustic nylon-stringed guitars, drums played with brushes- it's an unfamiliar sound to most listeners isn't it? The best is the lead singer's- umm- "singing." That accent is hilarious as well as gloriously epic. Would it surprise you if I also told you that Gogol Bordello's live show is amazing and full of energy? I've never had the glory to see these guys live but I hope I can one day. Until next week, enjoy!
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