1. Richard Dawkins Interview on TVOntario

Comment #181217 by Hayka on May 16, 2008 at 4:26 pm

Mango,

I have frames around my car's licence plates (front and back) that read 'Godless American." A couple of weeks ago I noticed that someone had marked out the 'less' part with an indelible marker, something a bit of acetone quickly remedied.

But I'm still puzzling over the tire I had to replace last year. Some might imagine a puncture in the sidewall of a new Michelin to be an act of God. I'm more inclined to blame it on a badly deluded follower with a sharp pocket knife.

But buying a new tire is much better than being the unwilling center of attention at a quasi-pig roast. From an historical perspective I'd have to say that we've got them on the run.

2. This human's life, decoded

Comment #67713 by Hayka on September 4, 2007 at 1:31 pm

I've just finished a fascinating book by Jablonka and Lamb, 'Evolution in Four Dimensions: Genetic, Epigenetic, Behavioural, and Symbolic Variation in the History of Life.' My non-professional interpretation of the book's message is that an individual's phenotype is a reflection of more than just genetics. From this perspective, race could be viewed as the result of genetic, epigenetic, behavioral and symbolic influences. Viewing it as a strictly genetic category ignores many significant elements in how race is perceived by the general populace. If Jablonka and Lamb are correct, the accompanying article simplifies the discussion of race to the point of near meaninglessness.

But again, that's my non-professional interpretation. I'd sincerely appreciate feedback from someone who actually knows what s/he's talking about.

3. Controversial Religious Summer Camp Closed

Comment #5455 by Hayka on November 9, 2006 at 2:36 pm

CR1,

I'm not sure I agree with the expression "GOD: An imaginary friend for grown-ups." Rather, I prefer 'God, an imaginary master for the self-enslaved.' 'Friend' just doesn't fit with the
fire-and-brimstone image from my Catholic upbringing.