Category Archives: Book Reviews

Not feeling well. I have the end of a cold that has migrated to the lungs. Think I will soon be okay, however.  Have to go to work tomorrow at State Dept. Working on the Columbia River Treaty.  Not sure … Continue reading →

Americans are exceptionally generous and more likely that people in most other places to volunteer. This is something foreigners noticed since the time of Alexis de Tocqueville. It is the special ingredient that allows us to do with less government. … Continue reading →

It is time for moderates to take back America from the hysterics and the screamers. We should judge policies by their usefulness, not by who advocates for them. I have seen studies showing that the same policies will be judged … Continue reading →

A few book notes, before the memory fades. I notice that my books seem to cluster, i.e. there is overlap and synergy among them. No doubt some comes from my own interest and choices, but I think some of this … Continue reading →

One of the collateral joys of my time in São Paulo was walking around the city.   It was a long walk from my hotel to the consulate, around an hour and fifteen minutes each way.  It had “segments” and I … Continue reading →

The great thing about ancient history is that we learn more every year. History is not just out there to be discovered. It is the creation of historians, who fit a narrative to events that are otherwise just one darn … Continue reading →

Just finished “The Third Wave” on The Great Courses. Lots of interesting ideas. I like the concept of “impact investing”, where you try to do something useful while making money. My tree farming is like that. I need to make … Continue reading →

Just finished “Enlightenment Now.” I have been reading Pinker’s work since “Blank Slate,” and went to lectures a few times. He is the quintessential reasonable man and a true liberal in the real sense. The Economist does a better job … Continue reading →

 5.0 out of 5 stars A New Introduction to a Couple of Guys I Should Have Known Better ByJohn Matelon January 14, 2018 Format: Hardcover|Verified Purchase David Hume and Adam Smith seem like a couple of decent guys. It would … Continue reading →

David Hume and Adam Smith seem like a couple of decent guys. It would be interesting to talk with them, both for the profoundness of their ideas and for their easy-going personalities. Ben Franklin was part of their intellectual set, … Continue reading →