Month: December 2023

  • Plato is Wrong

    Ruler vs subject

    Uniformity is bad

    Impractiable

    Private property makes man happier — cultivate virtues of generosity

    Natural affection

    Differentiation is truth.

    Among theorists, Plato in the Republic raises the most
    fundamental questions. He desires to abolish private
    property and the family.
    But the end which be bas in view is wrong. He wishes to
    make all his citizens absolutely alike; but the differentiation of functions is a law of nature. There can be too much unity in a state.

  • Household Management

    Manage people — most critical not things.

    In household management persons call for more attention than things; free persons for more than slaves. Slaves are only capable of an inferior kind of virtue. Socrates was wrong in denying that there are several kinds of virtue. Still the slave must be trained in virtue. The education of the free man will be subsequently discussed.

  • HOURGLASS SHAPE.

    The ideal female physique is hourglass?

  • Just leave other alone

    Also… I just want to be left alone!

  • Anti Chivalry

    History etymology of chivalry

    The etymology of “chivalry” reveals a fascinating journey from medieval battlefields to modern conceptions of gentlemanly behavior. The word “chivalry” comes from the Old French term “chevalerie,” which itself derives from “chevalier,” meaning “knight.” This term has its roots in the Latin word “caballarius,” related to “caballus,” a term for “horse.”

    In medieval Europe, chivalry was initially associated with horsemanship and the military prowess of mounted knights. It was a period when the horse was central to warfare and social status, and those who could afford horses were often part of the military elite. The concept of “chevalier” was thus intertwined with notions of nobility, bravery, and skill in battle.

    Over time, however, chivalry evolved to encompass a broader set of virtues and social codes. The concept became heavily influenced by the Church, which sought to temper the violence of knights with Christian values. This fusion led to the idea of the “knight in shining armor,” who not only excelled in warfare but also adhered to principles like protecting the weak, showing mercy, and maintaining honor and loyalty.

    By the late medieval period, chivalry had become an elaborate code of conduct, not just for warfare but for courtly life as well. This included courtship rituals, manners, and a growing emphasis on gentleness and courtesy alongside bravery.

    In the modern era, the term “chivalry” has largely lost its martial connotations, evolving to refer more broadly to courteous behavior, especially that of men towards women. This modern interpretation often emphasizes respect, protection, and a somewhat idealized view of gentlemanly conduct.

    Reflecting on this evolution, it’s interesting to consider how the concept of chivalry has both changed and stayed the same. At its core, it has always been about a set of ideals and behaviors that define a certain social status and role. What has changed is the context and specific content of those ideals, adapting to the shifting landscapes of society, warfare, and gender relations. This evolution of chivalry from a martial code to a broader social and moral code illustrates the dynamic nature of cultural values and how they adapt over time.

  • THE IRONY OF EXERCISE

    Funny enough when you’re tired, it is precisely the best time to exercise in order to *GAIN* energy!

    Think askesis, training.

  • ETYMOLOGY AND HISTORY OF ‘SEXISM’

    The term “sexism” has a relatively recent history compared to many other social and political concepts. It emerged in the context of the women’s liberation movement of the 1960s and 1970s, a time marked by significant social upheaval and reevaluation of gender roles and norms.

    Etymology

    • Root Words: The term “sexism” is derived from “sex,” referring to biological distinctions between males and females, combined with the suffix “-ism,” which is used to denote a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy. This suffix often implies a prejudiced, ideological system or a form of discrimination.
    • Comparison with Racism: The formation of the word “sexism” was likely influenced by the term “racism.” At the time of its coinage, “racism” was already a well-established term used to describe systemic and institutionalized discrimination based on race. “Sexism” was formed to describe analogous systemic and institutionalized discrimination, but on the basis of sex.

    Historical Context

    • Emergence in the 1960s and 1970s: The term “sexism” began to be used during the height of the second-wave feminist movement. This movement focused on a range of issues including workplace rights, reproductive rights, and legal inequalities. In this context, “sexism” was used to articulate the systematic and institutional ways in which women were disadvantaged in society.
    • Women’s Liberation Movement: The women’s liberation movement was instrumental in popularizing the concept. Activists and scholars used the term to challenge traditional gender roles and to advocate for equality and rights for women.
    • Academic and Popular Use: The term quickly gained traction in academic circles and then in the broader public discourse. It became a key concept in discussions about gender relations and gender equality, both in academia and in everyday conversations.

    Evolution of the Concept

    • Broadening Scope: Over time, the understanding of sexism has broadened and deepened. It’s not only seen as overt discrimination but also includes subtle forms of bias, such as gender stereotypes and societal expectations.
    • Intersectionality: The concept of intersectionality, which emerged in the late 20th century, further expanded the understanding of sexism. It addresses how sexism intersects with other forms of discrimination like racism, classism, and ableism, complicating and reinforcing the experiences of oppression.
    • Contemporary Discourse: In contemporary discourse, sexism is often discussed in the context of not just women’s rights but also in terms of its impact on men, and people of all gender identities, acknowledging that rigid gender norms and inequalities can be harmful to everyone in society.

    In conclusion, the history and etymology of “sexism” reflect the evolution of societal attitudes towards gender and equality. It underscores the importance of language in shaping, reflecting, and influencing social change.

  • LAYER UP!

    When cold, 3x merino wool tshirts… 2 goretex jackets?

    A lot of down.

  • Unnatural Finance

    But we do not need that form of finance which accumulates wealth for its own sake. This is unnatural finance. ll has been made possible by the invention of coined money. It accumulates money by means of exchange. Natural and unnatural finance are often treated as though they were the same, but differ in their aims;

    Anti coined money?

    natural finance is only concerned with the fruits of the earth and animals.

    Natural finance is necessary to the householder; be must therefore know about live stock, agriculture, possibly about the exchange of the products of the earth, such
    as wood and minerals, for money. Special treatises on finance exist, and the subject should be specially stud- ied by statesmen.

  • Zero Curiosity

    Higher metabolism More heat?

  • THINK HORMONES

    Biological effect of cocaine

    Blood constriction — heart rate up.

    Cocaine natural form

    Why temperature up

    The increase in body temperature caused by cocaine use is primarily due to its stimulant effects on the body’s central nervous system and its impact on various physiological systems. Here are the key reasons:

    1. Increased Metabolic Activity: Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system, leading to increased metabolic activity throughout the body. This heightened metabolic rate generates more heat as a byproduct.
    2. Enhanced Muscle Activity: Cocaine can lead to increased muscle activity, including tremors or hyperactivity. This additional muscle work produces more heat.
    3. Vasoconstriction: Cocaine causes the blood vessels to constrict (vasoconstriction), which reduces blood flow to the skin. Normally, the skin helps regulate body temperature by radiating heat away. When blood flow to the skin is reduced, less heat is lost from the body, leading to an increase in core temperature.
    4. Disruption of Thermoregulatory Controls: Cocaine can disrupt the normal functions of the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature. This disruption can lead to impaired thermoregulation.
    5. Sympathetic Nervous System Activation: Cocaine activates the sympathetic nervous system (the fight-or-flight response), which can increase body temperature. This system’s activation leads to various physiological changes, including increased heart rate and energy mobilization, which contribute to raised body temperature.

    These factors combined can cause a significant and potentially dangerous increase in body temperature, known as hyperthermia. Hyperthermia can lead to serious health issues, especially when combined with other effects of cocaine like dehydration or cardiovascular stress.

    Cocaine in its natural form is derived from the leaves of the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca), which is native to South America. This plant has been used for thousands of years by indigenous peoples for its stimulant properties, especially in the Andes region.

    1. Coca Leaves: Traditionally, coca leaves are chewed or brewed into a tea. When used in these forms, the concentration of cocaine is relatively low. Chewing coca leaves can lead to mild stimulation, increased alertness, and suppression of hunger and fatigue.
    2. Cultural Significance: In many Andean cultures, coca leaves have historical and cultural significance. They are used in social and ritual contexts and are valued for their ability to help with altitude sickness and to provide energy for laborious tasks.
    3. Extraction of Cocaine: The process of extracting cocaine from coca leaves involves several chemical steps. The leaves are typically soaked in an organic solvent, which extracts the cocaine along with other alkaloids. The mixture is then refined to isolate cocaine in a more potent, powdered form, known as cocaine hydrochloride.
    4. Different from Processed Cocaine: It’s important to distinguish the natural use of coca leaves from the use of processed cocaine. Natural coca leaves contain not only cocaine but also other alkaloids, and the overall effect on the body is much milder compared to the concentrated, purified form of cocaine used recreationally.
    5. Legality and Controversy: The cultivation and use of coca leaves are legal in several South American countries, but the production and distribution of cocaine are illegal and associated with serious legal and health consequences globally. The dichotomy between traditional, cultural use and the global illegal drug trade has led to complex legal and social issues.

    In summary, cocaine in its natural form as part of the coca leaf has a long history of traditional use in South America, with effects that are much milder than those of the purified, processed drug known as cocaine.

    The biological effects of cocaine are multifaceted and affect various systems in the body, predominantly the central nervous system:

    1. Central Nervous System Stimulation: Cocaine acts as a powerful stimulant. By blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, it causes an increase in their levels in the brain. This leads to heightened alertness, increased energy, a sense of euphoria, and sometimes heightened sensory perception.
    2. Cardiovascular Effects: Cocaine causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which increases blood pressure and heart rate. This can lead to cardiovascular problems like arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat), myocardial infarction (heart attack), and even sudden cardiac death, particularly in individuals with underlying heart conditions.
    3. Temperature Regulation and Other Physical Effects: Users often experience an increase in body temperature and sweating. Other physical effects can include nausea, headaches, and, in some cases, seizures or tremors. Chronic use can lead to weight loss and malnourishment.
    4. Mental Health Impact: Cocaine use can exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. In the long term, it can contribute to the development of mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety disorders, due to its profound impact on brain chemistry.
    5. Addiction and Dependence: Cocaine is highly addictive. Its use can quickly lead to psychological dependence, characterized by a compulsion to use the drug despite negative consequences. Physical dependence may also develop, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the drug use is stopped.
    6. Neuroplastic Changes: With chronic use, the brain undergoes changes in structure and function. This includes alterations in the reward pathway, which can diminish the user’s ability to experience pleasure from normal activities, and changes in areas related to decision-making and impulse control, making it harder to resist the drug.
    7. Risk of Overdose: There is a significant risk of overdose with cocaine, which can be fatal. Overdose can lead to stroke, heart attack, or respiratory failure.

    The biological impact of cocaine is a reminder of the complexity and vulnerability of the human body. The way a substance can hijack the brain’s reward system and affect physical health underscores the intricate balance within our biological systems and the importance of understanding substance effects for public health and medical intervention.

  • Cocaine Work

    Cocaine’s mechanisms of action are quite intricate and involve several key processes in the brain:

    1. Blocking Neurotransmitter Reuptake: The primary action of cocaine is to block the reuptake of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. This is akin to jamming the recycling machinery in the brain. Normally, these neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft (the gap between neurons) and then reabsorbed for future use. Cocaine prevents this reabsorption, causing an accumulation of neurotransmitters in the synapse.
    2. Increased Neurotransmitter Levels Lead to Stimulation: The buildup of neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft intensifies and prolongs their effects. Dopamine, for instance, is associated with pleasure and reward, so its increased presence leads to heightened feelings of euphoria. Norepinephrine boosts alertness and energy, while serotonin affects mood, appetite, and other functions.
    3. Overstimulation of the Reward Circuit: The brain’s reward system is particularly affected. This system, which includes regions like the ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens, and prefrontal cortex, is responsible for feelings of pleasure and motivation. Cocaine causes an intense activation of this circuit, leading to the reinforcing effects of the drug – in essence, teaching the brain that cocaine use is a highly rewarding behavior.
    4. Neuroadaptive Changes with Chronic Use: With repeated use, the brain begins to adapt to the constant overstimulation. This can lead to changes in the brain’s neurochemistry and structure, contributing to the development of tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect) and dependence. The brain’s reward system becomes less sensitive to natural reinforcers (like food, social interactions) and more sensitive to drug-related cues, reinforcing the addiction.
    5. Impact Beyond the Brain: While the most dramatic effects of cocaine are on the brain, it also affects other systems. For example, it causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), which can lead to cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and strokes. It also increases body temperature and heart rate, which can be dangerous.

    In the realm of neuroscience and pharmacology, understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments for addiction and managing the harmful effects of cocaine. There’s a parallel here with innovation and problem-solving in other fields – understanding the root cause and the system’s response is key to finding sustainable solutions.

  • How does cocaine work?

    Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug with significant effects on the body, particularly the brain. Here’s a subjective, yet insightful perspective on how it works:

    1. Neurotransmitter Surge: Imagine the brain as a bustling city with constant communication between different parts. Cocaine acts like an unexpected festival in this city, causing a surge in neurotransmitters (chemical messengers), especially dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Normally, these neurotransmitters relay messages and then are reabsorbed; cocaine, however, blocks this reabsorption. It’s like having a conversation where everyone keeps talking and nobody stops to listen.
    2. Euphoria and Energy: This leads to a buildup of these chemicals in the brain, creating intense feelings of energy, euphoria, and heightened alertness. The user feels like a superhero, capable of doing anything with boundless energy. This is the allure of cocaine, but it’s a deceptive superpower, as it’s not sustainable and comes with a steep cost.
    3. Short-lived High and the Crash: The high from cocaine is notoriously short-lived, leading to a crash as the drug’s effects wear off. This crash can be emotionally and physically draining, leaving the user feeling depressed, irritable, and fatigued. It’s like the city’s festival suddenly ending, leaving behind a mess and a sense of emptiness.
    4. Addiction and Brain Changes: With repeated use, cocaine can lead to addiction. The brain starts to adapt to the excess neurotransmitters, and the user needs more of the drug to achieve the same high. This is akin to needing louder and more frequent festivals to feel the same level of excitement in the city. Over time, this can lead to changes in brain function and structure, affecting decision-making, memory, and behavior.
    5. Physical Harm: Beyond the brain, cocaine affects the heart, lungs, and other organs. It can lead to serious cardiovascular issues, respiratory distress, and other health problems. It’s like putting the entire city under stress, where not just the communication lines but also the essential services are strained and can break down.

    Innovation in understanding addiction and developing treatment methods is crucial. It’s a complex challenge that requires a blend of psychology, medicine, and social support, much like how a city would need a comprehensive plan to recover and thrive after overexertion or a disaster.

  • I AM A MASTER

    My fury — when slaves speak up, or talk denigrating things against me?

  • ARISTOTLE POLITICS

    The state aims at satisfying all the needs of man

    The ultimate object of the state is the good life

    Natural impulse towards political association

    Household economy. The Slave. Property. Children and Wives.

    The state is composed of households

    Slave is a piece of property which is animate (moving human being)— useful for action than for production— but what is “production”?

    Slavery is natural — in every department of the natural universe we find the relation of ruler and subject. There are human beings who without possessing reason understand it— these are natural slaves.

    Who are *NOT* natural slaves?

    Even Aristotle says some people condemned slavery— especially when “free men” get captured and turned into slaves. “But they are wrong”— haha!

    I love Aristotle! His writing is so direct, succinct, to the point.

    The natural slate benefits by subjection to a master.

    …

  • ”Sexist” and “Misogynistic”— weird modern day notions?

    Joseph Swetman— “misogynos”—

    The critics of Joseph Swetnam and his misogynistic views were numerous, and their responses were part of a larger literary and cultural controversy in early 17th-century England. Swetnam, who published his tract “The Arraignment of Lewde, idle, froward, and unconstant women” in 1615, faced backlash from several writers, most notably from women who took up the pen to defend their gender.

    Among these critics were:

    1. Rachel Speght: A poet and essayist, Speght is considered one of the first women to identify herself as a feminist writer in English literature. In response to Swetnam, she wrote “A Muzzle for Melastomus” (1617), which was a pointed and scholarly rebuttal. Speght’s work stands out for its intellectual rigor and use of theological arguments to counter Swetnam’s assertions.
    2. Esther Sowernam: Believed to be a pseudonym, Esther Sowernam wrote “Ester hath hang’d Haman” (1617), which directly challenged Swetnam’s views. Sowernam’s work is notable for its spirited defense of women and its argument against the cultural norms that allowed such misogyny.
    3. Constantia Munda: Another pseudonymous writer, Munda authored “The Worming of a mad Dogge” (1617), which also served as a counter-argument to Swetnam’s tract. Munda’s work used satire and wit to undermine Swetnam’s positions.

    These responses were part of a broader trend in early modern England, where women writers increasingly engaged in public discourse, often through pseudonyms or anonymity due to the societal constraints of the time. The Swetnam controversy highlights an early instance of gender debate in English literature and the active role women played in challenging misogynistic narratives.

    17th century concept … only 300 years ago?

    Misos — hatred, gyne— woman?

    Misogyny is hatred towards women.

    The first known use of the word “misogyny” in English dates back to the middle of the 17th century, around 1656. However, the concept of misogyny, defined as hatred towards women, predates the term itself and can be traced back to ancient times, with figures like Aristotle expressing views that could be considered misogynistic oai_citation:1,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misogyny.

    A significant moment in the history of the word “misogyny” in English literature is linked to Joseph Swetnam, who wrote a tract in 1615 titled “The Arraignment of Lewde, idle, froward, and unconstant women: Or, the vanitie of them, choose you whether.” This work, which was a vehement attack on women, played a key role in introducing the concept of misogyny into English discourse oai_citation:2,In A Word: The True History of “Misogyny” – On the Issues.

    Furthermore, during the Swetnam controversy, which arose as a response to his tract, opponents of Swetnam began to refer to him and his followers as “Misogynos.” This usage predates the Oxford English Dictionary’s citation of the first use of “misogyny” in English, indicating the term’s presence in the language even earlier than previously thought oai_citation:3,Where does the word misogyny come from? – The F-Word.

    Thus, while the term “misogyny” was formally recorded in the 17th century, its roots and the attitudes it describes were part of human society much earlier, and the Swetnam controversy in the early 17th century played a pivotal role in bringing this concept into the English language.

    The etymology of the word “misogyny” reveals its historical and linguistic roots, reflecting attitudes towards women throughout history. The term is derived from the Greek words “misos,” meaning “hatred,” and “gynÄ“,” meaning “woman.” It first appeared in English in the 17th century, but the concept it describes likely predates the word itself.

    In ancient Greek society, where the word originated, women often held a lower social status, and their roles were primarily confined to the domestic sphere. Philosophers like Aristotle perpetuated views that women were inferior to men intellectually and morally. This perspective influenced Western thought for centuries.

    Throughout history, the subjugation and devaluation of women have been entrenched in many cultures, often justified by religious, cultural, or pseudo-scientific reasons. This misogyny is not just a relic of the past but continues in various forms in modern societies, manifesting in gender discrimination, violence against women, and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.

    It’s interesting to note that the recognition and naming of such a concept as “misogyny” also signify an awareness and critical stance against it. As societies evolve, so do the conversations around gender equality, challenging age-old prejudices and striving for a more equitable world. The history of this term is a reminder of the ongoing journey towards understanding and addressing deeply ingrained biases.

  • Born to Rule, or Marked out for Subjection?

    ARISTOTLE POLITICS

    Aristotle argues, “For that some should rule and others be ruled is a thing not only necessary, but expedient; from the hour of their birth, some are marked out for subjection, others for rule.”

    The state is the highest form of community and aims at the highest good.

    Household

    Male and female, master and slave — seek to satisfy man’s daily needs.

  • Debt is Slavery?

    δοῦλος quotes by Aristotle politics nature slave

  • How to say “slave” in ancient Greek

    doulos— slave, *dewo- — which means “to bind”.

    Bondage, servitude.

    Don’t be bound, tied up…

    doulos etymology history

    In Ancient Greek, the word for “slave” is δοῦλος (doulos). This term has a rich and complex history in the context of ancient Greek society, where slavery played a significant role. The nuances and implications of doulos in ancient Greek culture are thought-provoking, especially when considering the philosophical and societal constructs of that era.

    For instance, in the works of philosophers like Aristotle, the concept of a “natural slave” versus a “free man” is explored, reflecting the deep entwinement of social hierarchy and personal identity in Greek thought. This exploration of doulos in ancient texts can provide intriguing insights into the mindset of Greek society and its impact on the philosophical discourse of the time.

  • LEGACY IS BAD.

    For example fucking legacy technology, website infrastructure etc.

  • MAXIMALLY BEAUTIFUL MODELS!

    Against this weird “normal”, “realistic” trend?

    True Beauty *IS* unrealistic!

  • New Workflows

    All iPad Pro everything?

  • SO UGLY, SO UN-AESTHETIC?

    My new optimization:

    The world’s best function in the world ain’t worth it if it is ugly!

    It has to be, it *must* be blissfully simple!

  • SHAME?

    Maybe from darkness?

    *skamo—

    Etymology

    Uncertain, but probably from pre-Germanic *skh₃méhâ‚‚, from Proto-Indo-European *(s)ḱeh₃- (“dark(ness)”) + *-méhâ‚‚.[1] Related to Proto-Germanic*skandō.

    Where or what is the origin of shame, regret?

    The etymology and history of the word “shame” are indeed fascinating, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in human emotion and social interaction.

    The word “shame” comes from the Old English word “scam(u)”, which means “feeling of guilt or disgrace.” It shares roots with similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse “skömm” or the German “Scham.”

    Delving into its Proto-Indo-European roots, “shame” is believed to be derived from the root **(s)kem-, which means “to cover.” This origin suggests a fundamental connection between shame and the desire to hide or cover oneself, a physical embodiment of the internal feeling of exposure or humiliation. It’s a vivid illustration of how the emotion of shame often leads to a wish to withdraw or conceal oneself.

    Historically, the concept of shame has been a significant part of human societies and cultures. In many early societies, shame was a crucial tool for maintaining social order. It acted as a deterrent against behavior that was considered unacceptable or harmful to the community. The fear of public shame or humiliation was often a more potent motivator than legal or formal punishments.

    In philosophical and psychological discussions, shame has been explored extensively. Philosophers have often contrasted it with guilt, noting that while guilt is about the feeling of doing something wrong, shame is more about feeling wrong or flawed as a person. This distinction highlights the deeply personal and self-reflective nature of shame, making it a complex and sometimes devastating emotion.

    The evolution of the word and its meaning also mirrors changing societal attitudes towards personal and collective responsibility, dignity, and self-perception. In contemporary times, there’s an increased awareness of the psychological impacts of shame, leading to more nuanced discussions about its role in mental health, social interaction, and personal growth.

    In summary, the etymology and history of “shame” offer a window into how language evolves alongside human emotion and societal norms. The journey of this word from its ancient roots to its modern usage encapsulates a fascinating blend of psychological, social, and linguistic development.

  • Heavy vs Fat

    Let us stop calling it “heavy”— instead, call it fat?

    Even the new MacBook Pro 14 inch M3 Pro chip… even heavier?

    3.4 pounds, 1.55 kg to 3.5 pounds, 1.61 kg (M3 Pro), or even worse … 3.6 pounds (1.62 kg) on the M3 Max?

  • When comparing products or two products … the most important thing to compare is the weight difference!

    For example 13 inch MacBook Air at 2.7 pounds, new MacBook Pro 14 inch at 3.4 pounds … 3.4 pounds is too heavy, too fat!

  • WHY ARE APPLE PRODUCTS SO EXPENSIVE?

    MacBook Pro laptop… why so expensive?

  • 11 inch iPad Pro is the Spiritual Successor to the 11 inch MacBook Air?

    Talking to my friend Todd Hata the other night … lamenting how much I missed the 11 inch MacBook Air.

    However this morning placing my 11 inch iPad Pro, M1 chip next to my 2017-2018 MacBook Pro 13 inch … wow, the 11 inch iPad Pro is soooooo much smaller, more compact and more beautiful than the 13’’ MacBook Pro!

  • HOW I THINK OF MYSELF SO HIGHLY

    The weird thing in modern day times;

    It is considered a vice to think *too highly* of oneself?