In the 18th century and prior, we used our hands to do work. We became skilled at making chairs, tables, bowls, wagons, whatever was needed. We built roads, bridges, and buildings in teams of humans working by hand using skills garnered over a lifetime. Then, in the 19th century, along came the industrial revolution where … Continue reading Why liberal arts may (will) soon be invaluable.

Short-termism is at epidemic proportions in our world, and it’s hurting us. Why? Because there are an enormous number of things that take time. Learning just about anything takes time. Attention to detail takes time. Relationships take time. Most great work takes time. But we live in a world of instant gratification and short attention … Continue reading Short-termism? We can (must) do better.

Language is a driver of culture. The words we use set the tone for how people see things and how they behave.  When I was young, there were words that could not be uttered. They were wash-your-mouth-out-with-soap words. In my house, the N word was one of those as were innumerable curse words.  The outside … Continue reading Do people matter? Our language tells the story.

“An old-timer I knew used to tell his students: ‘Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’” -Arthur Szathmary This is a nice sentiment, but, quite frankly, impractical. Think about it. If everyone did what they loved, everyone would be a quarterback in the NFL or … Continue reading If you can’t do the work you love, then love the work you do.