With her ability to present history as breaking news, Antonia Fraser’s previous historic books have been real page turners. The latest, Perilous question, is no exception. I found myself reading on into the late hours unable to put it down even though in the back of my mind I was well aware of how things would pan out. … Continue Reading
For a great many people, if various discussions I’ve had are any indicator, philosophy represents a sort of pointless indulgence. They see it as little more than a game, in the way chess is a game, where one can while away the hours constructing and defending positions while seeking out weaknesses in the opposing points of view. Ultimately though, comes the claim, nothing is established, no understanding is advanced. Common sense is more than enough to get us through when grappling with questions of ethics or reality. In essence, philosophy is painted as a marginally acceptable leisure activity. Those who indulge in it are treated with a certain suspicion. … Continue Reading
Last month Rural Delivery contractor Gordon Wyeth spotted a rare, large elephant seal resting on the southern coast. These seals range around the Antarctic waters with their populations concentrated around the Antipodes and Campbell Islands. … Continue Reading
The international survey of student academic prowess released late last year led to the usual flurry of breast beating and pomposity . There is much to say about this survey, which provides a rich and provocative data set identifying educational trends around the globe.
The headlines, though a little shrill, capture the essential trends well enough. It does appear that a number of Asian nations are making great strides, educationally speaking, and as a result the top order has been shuffled somewhat (an effect exaggerated by the curious way in which Chinese results are reported). … Continue Reading
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