1. Geeks and Guinness: the formula for sexy science

Comment #182624 by frosty on May 20, 2008 at 4:46 pm

Just on the point about living forever, I've always thought that, even if it became possible, it would probably be outrageously expensive, so there may well end up being a small number of "immortals" able to live off the earning of the Google stocks they purchased for $10000 per share in 2080, and the rest of humanity slogging away as usual.

Of course, the problem with living older is that you get the same amount of youth as everyone else, but with an extra helping of old age (thanks Pratchett).

I am also reminded of Billy Connellys comment (to his 'willy'), when confronting his naked image in the miror - "yer poooor old barstard, I've outlived ye"

2. Non-religious summer camps develop niche

Comment #182620 by frosty on May 20, 2008 at 4:31 pm

Kids seem quite able to sort this stuff out for themselves as long as they get the right guidance. My seven year old came home from school late last year proclaiming that Jesus loved him (this is in an Australian Public School, normally a bastion of Apathanism - don't know, don't care - I think they just had someone explaining the meaning of Christmas, which by itself I am Ok with). I explained that lots of people in the world believe in different religions, and where that belief may have originated. I explained that I didn't believe, and why, but left it at that.

A day or two later, he proudly announced that he didn't believe in the Tooth Fairy, and explained why!

He's still a bit quiet on Santa, I think the difference between 20c and a new bike is sufficient for him to hold out on that one.