Homo sapiens is the master exploiter, defined by our irrepressible drive to remake our world, to push past things as they are and explore their hidden possibilities.  Our manipulation of life’s systems is at the heart of cooking

The college admissions scandal rightfully generates anger and concern that the wealthy can buy admission to elite colleges.  As a Berkeley grad, I want to see the integrity of the admissions process protected.  That said, my niece and nephew are part of a generation

Real food should be a right, not a privilege.  To feed ourselves food that isn’t good for us is immoral.  We have an obligation

I don’t take pride in thinking, much less writing, about my sins—but who does?  Maybe it’s good I don’t take pride in thinking about my sins since pride is a cardinal sin.  As a bit

I’ve always felt a kinship with those who struggle to communicate.  I’m very self-conscious about speaking, and prefer observing groups rather than presenting to them.

Like a twin I almost absorbed in the womb, my misery kicks its little legs out from my chest when when

When was the last time you hugged someone—not just a quick pat, but the kind of huge that feels like you really care about one another and are sending and receiving love? A great embrace not only makes us feel calmer and reassured, but it also has physical effects.

We can be good neighbors or we can attempt to opt out by building good fences. Our lives do take effort to maintain; we can take advantage of the magic bonds we make over the course of a lifetime produce, or we can attempt to opt out. Either way, the law of proximity on and [...]

Companions are a busy, ambiguous group.  Every day online, many in our raucous business launch immaturity insults for self-entertainment, letting off steam and just kidding around.  But it gets regrettable.  There can be tears and fights.  It can get heartless. I love who we are and what we do.

Does the internet seem especially or predominantly harsh?  Indeed, being on the Net makes us susceptible to critique.  And even for those who have thick skin, rejection leaves a mark whether you acknowledge it or not.  Certainly, we all feel the sting.  Then why are we all so eager to receive commentaries?  I don’t mean [...]