Nerd News: Harvard's Brush with Religious Accommodation? -- Plus, Grad Students Speak Up!

Here's an interesting little something.

Harvard recently had an "Islamic Awareness Week," during which the Muslim call to prayer was broadcast over the campus from loudspeakers on the library steps.

3 graduate students wrote to the campus newspaper to express their objection. Well, good on them for having the nerve and stomach to speak out -- because, and you know this as well as I do, on any campus these days you risk being labeled all kinds of unpleasant things if you say something unpopular.

So, I give you what the Harvard dissenters have to say. Two of them, by the way, are graduate students in Middle Eastern studies, and 1 is from the Kennedy School of Government.

Two weeks ago, the Islamic call to prayer, or adhan in Arabic, was broadcast from the steps of Widener Library across Harvard Yard as part of Harvard Islamic Society’s “Islam Awareness Week.” No doubt, the week’s events have broadened some horizons, and exposed some in our community to facets of a religion with which they were not previously familiar. This is certainly a good thing. However, it should be asked if other, more important concerns have been overlooked. We feel compelled to write this editorial to initiate a discussion on the intersection of pluralism and Islam, and the content of the adhan itself, which translated into English reads:

God is the Greatest

I bear witness that there is no lord except God

I bear witness that Mohammad is the Messenger of God

Hurry to prayer

Hurry to success

God is the Greatest

There is no lord except God

It is wonderful that we embrace the free practice of many religions at Harvard. We are thankful that most members of the Harvard community understand the importance of respecting people’s rights to have their own beliefs. We are deeply committed to respecting and protecting the rights of others to believe at they choose, and we believe that one of the first principles of respectful conduct and religious practice is to avoid unnecessarily criticizing or confronting others’ personal beliefs. We cherish the fact that it is possible to discuss our differences with our classmates and neighbors without that discussion erupting into conflict and sowing the seeds of division and disrespect.

We believe that the adhan, issued publicly in a pluralistic setting, does indeed sow those seeds of division and disrespect. It does so by declaring that “there is no lord except God,” and that “Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” To the extent that this statement is a profession of faith, it is benign; however, by virtue of its content, it is also a declaration of religious superiority and a declaration against all beliefs that conflict with those two statements. This puts the adhan in a different class of religious expression than, say, the sounding of church bells or the displaying of a menorah because it publicly advances a theological position. By doing so, it comes precariously close to crossing the line between the legitimate creation of awareness and proselytization. Imagine, if you would, a Southern Baptist evangelist standing atop the steps of Widener Library, exhorting passersby to pray, denying the validity to other faiths, and declaring the divinity of Jesus. Would such an activity be congruent with Harvard’s tradition of liberalism and tolerance?

We do not believe so. Indeed, other religions make truth claims similar to those contained in the adhan, but those claims, as a matter of practice at Harvard, are voiced privately or not at all. The adhan, it seems, is the exception to Harvard’s unspoken rule of religious respect and tolerance.

The authors of this piece do not believe that there is no lord but God. Nor do we believe that Muhammad was God’s prophet. In fact, we do not believe in prophets. We expect that our statements might be offensive to some, and for that reason, we believe that it wouldn’t be appropriate, in the name of spreading awareness about our beliefs, use a public address system to declare to everyone in Harvard Yard that God is imaginary, that prayer is a waste of time, or that Muhammad was not a prophet. Similarly, it is best that those who hold similar beliefs about Hinduism or Buddhism or any other religion avoid loudly declaring the falsehood of other faiths.

The Harvard community should be very aware of Islam, as it is one of the world’s most influential religions. We believe that Islam Awareness Week ought to continue, but in a way that does not foist Islamic doctrines upon everyone. We believe that students who resent the forceful infusion of theology with their Harvard experience should be spared the indignity, and we believe strongly that our community should not grant license to any religious group, minority or otherwise, to use a loudspeaker to declare false the profoundly important and personal beliefs of others.

Nerd Notes: Elite Colleges vs. Diversity vs. High SAT Test Scores

Hmmmmm. Here is a question for elite campuses...

High SAT test scores or diversity? Apparently you can't have your cake and eat it too. (Or can you?)

Blurb:

Elite colleges have been undermining their own efforts to diversify by giving much more weight to high SAT scores than they did before, according to an analysis of College Board data presented this morning at the annual conference of the American Educational Research Association.

Over the past two or three decades, the share of freshman-class seats that elite colleges award to students with high SAT scores has risen significantly—and risen more quickly than the number of high scores, according to an analysis by Catherine L. Horn, an assistant professor of educational leadership and cultural studies at the University of Houston, and John T. Yun, an assistant professor of education at the University of California at Santa Barbara.

. . . The researchers say that, by focusing so heavily on high scorers, the elite colleges they examined are ignoring promising minority students with lesser scores, increasing the competition for high-scoring minority students, and potentially “simply ‘pricing’ themselves out of the ‘market’ for a more diverse learning environment.” Especially among the most prestigious of the 30 institutions, it is hard to believe that putting less emphasis on high SAT scores would cause the institutions’ quality to suffer.

The can of worms is OPEN! The fallout will not be pleasant. Slugfests over identity politics, educational standards, and affirmative action are never pleasant -- especially when combined.

My two cents' worth:

1. SAT scores are arbitrary numbers, and I don't believe they or any other standardized exam can accurately gauge actual academic ability.
2. On the other hand, I did fine on my SATs (among the "elite," according to the researchers of the study linked above).
   
3. This report doesn't seem to say much about minority students who perform as well as (or better than) non-minority kids on the SAT. Apparently we don't matter because we PERFORM? What about the diversity that I (and people like me) add to a campus? Is it not "diverse" enough? Oh, let me not remind us all of the California messes about Asians and Asian-Americans are "not really minorities."
   
4. If SATs are going to be used as a qualification for school admissions, then frankly I think schools should measure every potential student by the same yardstick, not have different yardsticks for different groups.
   

Nerd News: UK Schools and a Quota of Bad Students?

This sounds . . . interesting in a really depressing kind of way.

Schools will be forced to take their fair share of disruptive pupils to prevent them from monopolising the best behaved children, the Government announced today.

Ed Balls, the Children’s Secretary, said schools that excluded pupils would have to accept, in return, the same number that had been expelled from another school.

This “one out, one in” policy would prevent oversubscribed schools from dumping badly-behaved children onto their failing neighbours.

Yes, let's all flail together in the morass of mandatory mediocrity -- how dare any school attempt to be an island of civility in the rising sea of yob culture? Let's make sure troublesome kids turn into everybody's problem. Also, I didn't see much about ideas for turning the expellable little hellions into decent young people.

Meanwhile, the people who suffer? The good kids, of course. AS USUAL.

Quirky Euro Files: German Police, Traffic Cones, and a Mouse

Here's an amusing tale . . . about a mouse in a house, the young man who panicked and ran into the snowy winter night while wearing only slippers and boxer shorts, and the German police who arrived to attempt capturing the mouse with traffic cones.

Oh, my!

(Also...Traffic cones? Are mousetraps too cruel? They're possibly more -- er -- effective. The police didn't catch the mouse!)

Amusing Zoology News: Female Peacocks Aren't Impressed by Colorful Male Feathers

Well, it now looks as though everything I was taught about peacock plumage is wrong!

New research from the University of Tokyo suggests that female peacocks (peahens) don't care much about the males' magnificent feathers.

Take a look at the photo accompanying the news story. It has a peacock fully displaying his tail plumage for a a peahen who doesn't seem to notice. The caption? "Whatever."

"WHATEVER."

Perhaps peahens, like many a girl I know, aren't impressed by show-offs!

*giggle*

This reminds me of a funny story from my childhood, though. When the family would go to the zoo, I would ask my mom in Taiwanese to (I quote) "make the peacock bloom." She would whistle, and the peacock would always display his feathers. My mom still tells the story since I used the word for "bloom" -- the same word you use to talk about flowers opening. She thinks it was a cute thing for a kid to say!

Beijing Olympic Watch: The Games as "Showcase of Repression"

This editorial piece in the Washington Post tears into China's record of repression. Take a look:

AS CHINA'S COMMUNIST leadership conceived it, this year's Olympic Games were to mark the country's debut as a global power, with a booming economy and rapidly modernizing society. Instead, it's beginning to look as though the Games could become a showcase for violent repression, censorship and political persecution by a regime that has failed to rise above the level of police state. Though they present themselves as worldly and reformist, President Hu Jintao and his leadership group seem unable to grasp how the policies they have pursued in recent months have undermined the honor of staging the Olympics and risk destroying China's international prestige.

Even before the upheaval in Tibet this month, Mr. Hu's government was tightening its grip: shutting down publications, imprisoning dissidents and harassing lawyers in the name of pre-Olympic harmony. Officials have reneged on pledges to loosen media controls, not only in Tibet -- where the foreign press has been denied access to the carnage -- but in Beijing itself; as of this week, authorities won't allow live broadcasts from Tiananmen Square, site of the deadly crackdown on pro-democracy students two decades ago.

. . . it looks increasingly likely that the Olympics will serve to remind the world not of China's emerging greatness but of its continuing denial of freedom to its citizens, its repression of minorities and its amoral alliances with rogue states.

Well, if China wanted to get the Games so it could get the international spotlight, it's certainly got that attention -- though right now in very negative ways. Be careful what you wish for; you might actually get it.

Beijing Olympic Watch: France's Sarkozy and the Opening Ceremonies

Here is a little news, but my post is really about commentary.

France's leader Sarkozy has said that he has not ruled out the option of boycotting the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics. (I had blogged briefly about this symbolic type of boycott, not a full, actual, and useless boycott, before.)

Sarko cites the situation in Tibet as his reason. He has also called on China to talk with the Dalai Lama.

Now observe more carefully the words in the BBC headline: "Sarkozy threat to Olympic opening."

Hmmmm. SARKO is the threat? Apparently the democratically elected leader of a free European nation is the "threat" when he wants to voice his opinion about a situation that has attracted the condemnation of numerous world leaders. Oh, the threat can't possibly be an autocratic dictatorship using bloody force in a location it has seized and deliberately subjected to cultural mutilation.

Look, I know that media standards these days are deplorable, but this sort of moral inversion is simply offensive and stupid. Of course, this is the BBC news service we're talking about. You'll remember that on my old blog I once ranted about how BBC described Taiwan as a "threat" to China.

Taiwan Photoblogging: Part 1 = Planes and Night Markets

The Sibling is now recovered enough from his jet lag to start sending Taiwan photos!

I will post a few at a time -- in chronological order -- so we can all take a little virtual trip to Taiwan together and enjoy the photo fun. (And perhaps cure our travel envy?)

Previously I posted the first photo from the trip: the church in Tamsui.

Here is the first collection:

Here is the plane! It's EVA Air, the family's favorite airline for Taiwan trips. (Good food, great service, comfortable seats.) Notice the other passengers starting to read their Mandarin-language newspapers.

The Sibling and I love checking the flight map. Here he is, somewhere over the Pacific Ocean, near the coast of Alaska, on his direct flight to Taipei from Los Angeles. Hey, it's much better than having to change planes in Narita, Tokyo, Japan.

Ah, yes. How to amuse yourself on long trans-Pacific flights? The Sibling decided on some Sudoku. Hmmm, notice the difficulty setting in the top right corner! *giggle*

Finally in Taiwan! The plane lands about 10 PM. Tired and jet-lagged, what's the first thing you should do? Go out to the busy night markets and eat like a pig, of course! Here is a photo of some glorious steamed dumplings, which were made and cooked on the spot. Eat with dipping sauce and shredded ginger root, with maybe a dash of vinegar.

Here is another example of the great (and not expensive) food you can get at the busy night market food stalls. This is called a "chicken roll," and it's delicious. The baby cucumbers are a nice and cool addition to the hot savory dish. The Sibling and family ate themselves into a happy food-induced coma and then went to bed.

Good morning, Taiwan! This is the view from the windows of the family's hotel in Tamsui, a suburb of Taipei now, though it once was an independent seaside village. Tamsui is out of the busy urban center (but well-linked by the excellent MRT system), and it has beautiful views of the ocean and also of some lovely mountains. This is Guanyin Mountain, as seen from the Sibling's bedroom window early in the morning.

Don't forget: breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Here is a typical Taiwanese breakfast: hot tea (the good stuff too -- look at the lovely color of the tea), hot rice porridge, a selection of meats and vegetables, and some fresh fruit. Oh, there are fried eggs today, with a little drizzle of soy sauce on top. Delicious. The uncles went out to the morning street markets and bought hot fresh soy milk -- just as here in the US and Europe you may go out in the morning for some hot fresh coffee.

And now, well rested and well fed, we begin our first real day in lovely Taiwan! That will be in Photo collection #2, which will be posted soon.

(Yes, yes, I know my Taiwan blogging is going to sound like a LOT of crazy propaganda. Sorry in advance. I'm *not* on the payroll of Taipei, but I can't help gushing about Taiwan -- it's such a fantastic place!)

Amusing Cookbook Title: "Revolutionary Chinese Cookbook."

No, really!

The cookbook is actually titled "Revolutionary Chinese Cookbook." Seriously. Here it is on Amazon, and it's even been nominated for a cookbook prize.

Perhaps I am just an evil history student, but the name of this cookbook made me laugh. I'm sure the cookbook has nothing to do with revolutionary Maoist China, but the entire idea about using the words "revolutionary" and "cookbook" TOGETHER when revolutionary big shot Mao caused mass hunger and famine...!

What would a recipe look like?

Take 1 pound of grass and twigs, stir fry with fresh leaves, eat immediately and die slowly of starvation.

Oops, did I say that aloud?

The Cinema-Mad Sibling Recommends: 3--No, 4!-- Asian Films!

The Cinema-Mad Sibling has returned from Taiwan with a fresh crop of Asian film trailers to recommend.

So, lucky reader, feast your eyes on the following:

"Appleseed Ex Machina"

"Vexville"

"Resurrection of the Dragon"

Korean trailer videos are here.

Enjoy!

UPDATE: The Sibling has just emailed with another film--John Woo's "Red Cliff." Take a look. It's another period epic, of course, filled with Chinese warlords and sweeping huge landscapes; these action "historical" epics are all the rage! Yes, we've all got "Three Kingdoms" fever, and the only cure is the cinema.

John Woo's "Red Cliff"

Nerd Journal: Happy Easter + Spring's First Robin!

It's a cold but sunny Resurrection Sunday, so let me wish you all a lovely Easter! Here is a Fra Angelico for your artistic enjoyment.

The weekend's been busy, but I'll be back with more tomorrow. For now, here's a summary:

• Yesterday I saw both the spring's first robin AND the first crocus flower of the season! These are two sure signs of spring and warm weather to come, so it's always delightful to see that first robin and first crocus (this year's first crocus was orange -- a surprise, since usually I see purple ones).
• The Sibling and mother and I have been on the phone all weekend talking about the Taiwan election and Ma's (very big) victory. It's too early, I think, to be able to analyze the results fully, but I can tell you that everyone is buzzing and that my group is not at all pleased (neither is Taiwan watcher Michael). Even the western media has finally started covering the results, although as usual the "analysis" is silly, stupid, uninformed, biased, ridiculous, or all of those things. I'll be back later with an attempt at news/analysis/commentary. One little nerd note, though, since I can't help myself: Ma is a Harvard man. Whether you think this is a good thing or a bad thing depends on what you think of Hahvahd!
• Tomorrow I'm back to class (*sigh*). Still, with robins and flowers beginning to appear, there is hope that the school term will be over eventually!
  

Nerd Journal: Politics + Sports + School = MARCH MADNESS!!!

Horribly busy! Everything is happening at the same time!

All I can say is that I have a new math equation for the lunacy:

US politics (Obama race-baiting with stupid media interviews)
+ Taiwan politics (presidential election is this weekend!! DPP! KMT! Aaaaaagh!)
+ school (I'm going to a Nerdmoot to share shoddy research with -- gasp! -- Nerd Lords)
+ sport (NCAA college basketball championship! Hoopla for hoops!)
= MARCH MADNESS.

Absolutely. Oh, and Easter holidays too! Too bad I wasn't able to give up homework and research for Lent...

I will try to have more analysis and sibling Taiwan photos soon, but I make no promises. I could simply collapse from eating too many chocolate bunnies and candy eggs.

Quirky Asia Files: Japanese "Politeness Police" Watch Your Manners on the Train

In Yokohama, "politeness police" on the trains will make you give up your seat for elderly, injured, or pregnant passengers if you don't get up of your own accord.

Note to gentle readers: I'm sure you don't need these "courtesy cops" since I'm quite certain that you are all impeccably well-mannered!

Beijing Olympic Watch: Thoughts on Boycotting the Opening Ceremonies

In light of the brutal and bloody measures now underway in Tibet, some people are calling for a mini-boycott of the Beijing Olympics. This doesn't mean a boycott of the entire Games (that wouldn't do anything much anyway), but the refusal of international VIPs to attend the opening ceremonies might be a big slap to Beijing.

Well, it would certainly be a loss of face. Plus it would tell everyone -- IOC included -- that not everybody is comfortable with silently colluding with autocratic dictatorships that trample on human rights.

Anyway, 2008 was supposed to be Beijing's big year of self-promoting propaganda -- but so far, it's turned out to be a disaster. I'm thinking, you know, that's just FINE with me. Go ahead, let the world see the huge gap between the shiny happy images that Beijing wants people to see and the very different images that it's been producing lately -- even though it's been trying to block YouTube and other sources of video from Tibet.

Nerd News: Tenure -- the Movie!

This could be hilarious! Inside Higher Ed is reporting that a movie will be filmed -- and its plot is about tenure:

Blowtorch Entertainment will next month begin filming on “Tenure,” which is about a college professor coming up for tenure (Luke Wilson) and facing off against a female rival who recently arrived at (fictional) Grey College. (The part of the institution will be played by Bryn Mawr College, where the movie will be shot.) David Koechner will play the professorial sidekick to the Wilson character, and the production company is planning kickoff events next year to promote the film in college towns.

Brendan McDonald, the producer, said that he viewed academe as “one of the interesting worlds to explore” and said that he viewed the project as “lampooning the tenure process.”

Hm. do you suppose the film will include all the usual egotistical maneuvering, backstabbing, gossiping, petty quarreling, campus politics, self-aggrandizement, nervous breakdowns, and nerd-versus-nerd social and political gaffes? Oh, and the often-inevitable lawsuits and complaints?

Taiwan Photoblogging: the DPP Rally on March 16

Michael Turton has been photoblogging! Do go see his many great photos from the March 16 DPP rally. (Yes, yes, I betray my political sympathies, no?)

Oh, I notice Michael has described some young ladies at the rally as "totally hot DPP babes." Hahaha, maybe next time I will be one! *giggle*

Sibling Travel Report and Taiwan Photoblogging: Tamsui Church

(click to enlarge)

Gentle reader, the Sibling now has photos to share from his trip to Taiwan! I'll post some in the coming days.

For now, I'll start with this charming group photo taken last Saturday. This is my family's church in Tamsui (once a small waterside town, it's now become a suburb of Taipei). This old church has a long history, is on the historical record, and has been part of my mother's side family since she was a little girl. It's located on the main street in Tamsui (Chungsung Street) and is still a vibrant community of Taiwanese Christians. In fact, some of my relatives are in the crowd!

Quirky Euro Files: French Guillotine Chic!

Apparently in la belle France, Frenchmen are now rushing to a new website where they can see if they have an ancestor who was kissed by Madame Guillotine during the French Revolution.

It's now tres chic to be related to the doomed aristocrats of old.

“Avez-vous eu un ancêtre decapité pendant la révolution?”

Hm, why do I suddenly want to go read The Scarlet Pimpernel?

Taiwan: Required Reading for March 22 Election

The Jamestown Foundation has a useful new briefing of who and what in the upcoming Taiwanese vote.

Xie-xie to Michael Turton of the very good View from Taiwan blog.

Et tu, Brute?: Beware the Ides of March!

Enjoy the day, fans of Roman history!

And do read some Shakespeare!

March 22: Upcoming Taiwanese Elections--plus the Sibling Reports on DPP Campaign Headquarters

Just a thought as I brace myself for the inevitable mess that will come with the Taiwanese elections. For one thing, I expect a great deal of ludicrously bad "coverage" from the international news media. Expect "analysts" to be spouting nonsense, particularly nonsense that reveals they haven't a real clue about Taiwan at all -- or that they've somehow become sympathetic with the pan-blues and the photogenic Ma.

BUT! On a more personal note, I received an email a couple days ago from the Sibling in Taipei. He reported on an incident at the DPP campaign headquarters, and then told me to keep an eye on the news to see if the incident appears.

Here is the incident as the Sibling reported it ("Big news here," he says from Taipei). Some KMT supporters (blues) decided to cause trouble for the DPP (greens), and did this by sending some men to the DPP headquarters (they were "suits," according to the Sibling). They then apparently kicked in the door, accusing the DPP of not paying correct rent on the location. Soon dozens of DPP/green supporters appeared on the scene to protest the action of the blues and to deny their accusation. Riot police were called to the scene to restore order.

(Since I have a language policy on the blog, I won't repeat verbatim the Sibling's opinion of the pan-blues, but I can say he called their tactics a very nasty word indeed...and he's usually very polite! Also, the type of rowdy behavior he reports is unusual -- Taiwanese politics can be energetic, but not usually in the forms of fisticuffs like this.)

Here is the first appearance of the incident that I found -- in the BBC. A finance minister and a KMT legislator have now resigned over the fracas at DPP headquarters. Big news indeed.

[Finance minister] Ho Chih-chin said he was resigning to take responsibility for what he called his improper behaviour.

He had accompanied several legislators from the KMT - members of the parliamentary finance committee - to the DPP's campaign headquarters.

They had alleged that the building - owned by a bank which was supervised by the finance ministry - was being unlawfully occupied, claiming that no rent had been paid.

After gaining access, they were blocked from leaving by DPP supporters.

Scuffles broke out, and about 200 riot police were called in to try to maintain order.

The lawmakers were eventually allowed to leave the scene, and were taken to a police station for questioning.

The DPP's presidential candidate, Frank Hsieh, and his aides have strongly condemned the incident.

KMT candidate Ma Ying-jeou later apologised and condemned the violence - although his aides insisted his campaign team had no prior knowledge of the event.

One of the KMT legislators involved in the incident, Alex Fai, also apologised and resigned as party whip.

Sorry for the delay in posting this -- I've been rather ill with a cold!

I'll have more news from the Sibling in Taiwan soon. He's heading to Taichung and Sun Moon Lake soon...

Taiwan Criticizes China Over Tibet

See the latest on Taiwanese leaders' response to China's recent crackdown in Tibet.

Here's a quote from DPP leader Frank Hsieh: " "As we look at Tibet, we must think about our own fate."

Oh, my.

Nerd News: Yale "Free Speech" -- or Lack of It

Princeton man TigerHawk is not too happy about Yale's approach to free speech -- if New Haven free speech really only means "you can say whatever you want on campus -- unless somebody else doesn't like it, in which case you will either shut up or we will force you to shut up."

Oh, the Ivy League! Is TigerHawk right that feelings are more important than the bedrock principles of free speech?

Nerd Analysis: Thoughts on Science Vs. Journalism

Very interesting blog post here about the dangers of emotion-driven "reporting" in science. Here is a blurb:

A major new idea, one which overturns an existing, well-supported theory, does not get established in one paper. There has to be follow up and debate, and if the idea holds up to scrutiny it will be accepted.

Beware the underdog narrative in science journalism. This narrative severely misrepresents how science really works. It's designed to elicit our sympathy for a not-yet-established theory, maybe one that is socially attractive, and to arouse our indignation against the staid community of eggheaded scientists. This underdog narrative plays on our emotions, it makes for a good read, and helps us feel good about ourselves when we stand up for our convictions.

What gets lost is the scientific method, the idea that novel proposals need to be thoroughly vetted and tested, no matter how intuitively attractive they are. That vetting process is done by a dynamic community of smart, educated, competitive people, who care passionately about science. It's a community where everyone wants to come up with the next big theory that overturns long-held beliefs. But that's hard to do, especially in fields where all the low-hanging fruit has been picked over by really talented people for decades or centuries. If a new theory is being presented in the media as the centerpiece of an underdog narrative, you can bet the farm that this theory is not yet sufficiently substantiated by the evidence. That doesn't mean it's wrong necessarily, but it does mean that the hypothesis has not yet met the rigorous standards of evidence that have served science well for centuries.

British soldier fends off 150 Taliban, receives the Military Cross

This is an amazing tale:

A BRITISH soldier who almost single-handedly took on 150 Taliban after he and his 50-man convoy were ambushed in Afghanistan has been awarded the Military Cross.

Fusilier Damien Hields used his grenade machinegun to destroy seven Taliban positions before his ambushers realised he was their main threat. After peppering his vehicle with bullets, they hit the 24-year-old soldier. He had to be dragged off for treatment by his driver after he tried to continue fighting.

“Fusilier Hields showed extraordinary courage under intense fire,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Huw James, his commanding officer. “I was astonished at the state of his vehicle. There were so many holes in it, it was like a teabag. The Taliban did everything in their power to neutralise [him] and Fusilier Hields was having none of it. His actions allowed his patrol to come out of the ambush in which they were outnumbered by three or four to one and probably saved a lot of lives.”

Hields was awarded not only the Military Cross, the third highest award for gallantry, but also the Nato Meritorious Service Medal for his actions, which were part of a Nato operation.

What also caught my eye, though, was this Monty Pythonesque comment:

Hields said: “It turned out the bullet had smashed a rib and gone out of me again without touching any internal organs which was very lucky. It was just a flesh wound really.”

Talk about nerves of steel.

Weekend Nerd Journal: Hooray for Friday!

I can't even begin to tell you how glad I am that today is Friday!

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Oh, I think I would actually dance if I were not sooooooooo tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiired...

*Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!!!!!!!!!!*

Asian Arms: New Report on Chinese Military Power

Blog friend Dignfied Rant has the post to the latest edition of the annual report on Chinese military capabilities, along with brief commentary on what it might mean in terms of Taiwan.

Nerd Journal: Total Taiwan Travel Envy

The Sibling is now in beautiful Taiwan! He is now tormenting me with emails about his adventures. Meanwhile, I'm stuck here on campus, in the cold and wet, turning absolutely green with envy.

(The first email? An announcement that he had landed in Taipei and immediately went to the busy night markets, where he and our relatives had a million delicious snacks at the numerous food stalls. Lucky dog!)

The Sibling has promised many, many photos, so I will post them when I receive them.

For you, gentle reader, I give you a glimpse of where the Sibling is and will be going:

• Taiwan's official tourism website
• Another Taiwan travel site
• Taipei city website
  
• Sun Moon Lake
• Taiwan High Speed Rail
  

The Sibling is currently in Tamsui and will will heading to Taichung at some point. We've got relatives all over the island, too, so he will be soon be mobbed by what I call "the auntie brigade" that will (a) feed him endlessly and also (b) treat him like a child even though he's a grown man, and of course (c) demand to know why he's not married yet.

Oh, Taiwan! I haven't been back there in almost 3 years. OK, you know it's coming... *WHINNNNNNNNE!!!*

Obama-Billary Smackdown Continues

I would simply like to say: yesterday's Super Tuesday II was basically a repeat of Super Tuesday I. The first one resulted in gridlock, and so did the second one.

The Obama-Billary death-match continues unabated. I'm actually a little surprised that Hillary managed to win both Ohio and Texas; then again, she did say she had to win both.

We're going into the Democratic Convention without a nominee, kids! Pull up a comfortable chair, sit back, relax, and watch the fireworks fly amid the increasingly dirty and desperate politicking. Showtime! I'll make the popcorn (with extra butter). Meanwhile, let the superdelegates start to squirm.

On the GOP side, it's the McCain Channel -- all McCain, all the time. I'm afraid it's a bit boring by comparison.

Both parties are actually rather unhappy, though unhappy in different ways (hey! that sounded just like the beginning of Anna Karenina. Oh, please, let us not throw ourselves under a train by the end of the election cycle...). I'm expecting interesting conventions.

Oh, and I have to say: I saw Hillary on a morning news program, all smiling and actually saying, "I am a human being." I will refrain from mentioning that any student of history knows that merely being a human being is not any proof of good intentions, good policy, or even good character. Oops, did I say that out loud?

Nerd Journal: China, Taiwan, and a Conversation on Campus

Gentle reader, I simply have to report this. You'll have to let me know what you think.

Anyway, I've pointed out before that people from mainland China often have a certain...predictable or common reaction to finding out that I (or my Sibling or my relatives, etc.) have a heritage from Taiwan.

Well, a few days ago, I had to go to a campus reception, and it happened again. Let me explain.

There were lots of people in the room, and everyone was mingling and talking and being sociable (largely because, I suspect, we had been ordered to go to this function and had no choice). After a little while, a cheerful middle-aged Asian man introduced himself to me. He was a professor teaching Chinese matters.

His English was very good, though I could detect a slight accent.

"Where are you from?" I asked.

"I am from Beijing," he said, saying then that he had lived in the States for a large number of years. Then, inevitably, he asked me, "Where are you from?"

Here it comes. Here it always comes. In as neutral a tone as I could, I said, "My family is from Taiwan."

"Taiwan!"

He was still polite, but a certain light was now in his eyes. I had seen it before, trust me.

"Ah, well," I said lightly. "So much politics."

I was trying to steer the conversation to a less volatile topic. But he pressed. He was still polite, but he pressed: "So what do you consider yourself to be? Chinese or Taiwanese?"

This question was not innocent. It was a loaded question, and it had the potential to open an argument. Are you Chinese or Taiwanese?

I looked back at him and smiled. "I'm an American."

He stopped, looked, and slowly smiled back. "Ah..." It was a defeated look, but there was a silent understanding: I was NOT going to take his bait, and I was NOT going to get into some pointless debate (besides, a Taiwan-cheerleading nobody like me versus a real Nerd Lord?).

As for my answer...Well, maybe it was a little evasive? But it also had the benefit of being true.

Video of the Day: "Yes, We Can" by...Ronald Reagan

Here is a lovely video sent to me by blog friend Pursuit of Serenity. Do enjoy...but be prepared to miss Reagan even more.

(And no, this is not a post about McCain or Obama or Billary or any of that. This is a post about the best of what Reagan did and inspired.)

Quirky Euro Files: Sarkozy Wants UNESCO Recognition for French cuisine

I found this news piece to be really interesting . . . and just a little bit amusing too.

I mean, really, we all knew that the French take their food seriously, but demanding UNESCO recognition?

As for Sarko, he certainly keeps finding ways to stay in the news, doesn't he? Educational reforms, Carla Bruni, and now French cuisine.

OK, I now feel the need to rush home and watch "Ratatouille." Heck, maybe I'll go and cook some ratatouille!

The Cinema-Mad Sibling Recommends: "Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon"

Here is the latest from the Cinema-Mad Sibling, who is nothing if not reliable in his obsession with Asian cinema!

"Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon" is set to premiere in Asia on April 3. Actors in this film include such well-known names as Andy Lau, Sammo Hung, and Maggie Q.

It's a period piece with plenty of martial action.

Click for the trailer video. It looks good!

Forget Fair Trade coffee -- choose Free Trade Coffee!

This post is dedicated to Il Barista, aka Coffee Pot Dictator, who long ago had told me this about "fair trade" coffee. Well, perhaps some people will dismiss his words because he works for Satan Coffee, but as an industry insider, he ought to know -- and does.

"Fair trade" coffee doesn't do much for the poorest of the coffee farmers. I've told you before: if you want to combat poverty, support free trade. "Fair trade" won't tackle poverty.

It might, though, make you feel virtuous about yourself as you pay top dollar for mediocre coffee. Frankly, I'll even argue that "fair trade" and all its ilk are really selling virtuous self-image, not coffee or any other real product.

Nerd News: Some Muslims Students Ask Australian Universities to Change Class Schedules

Here it is:

International Muslim students, predominantly from Saudi Arabia, have asked universities in Melbourne to change class times so they can attend congregational prayers. They also want a female-only area for Muslim students to eat and relax.

But at least one institution has rejected their demands, arguing that the university is secular and it does not want to set a precedent for requests granted in the name of religious beliefs.

I wholeheartedly agree with this Aussie school head's reply:

La Trobe University International College director Martin Van Run said that although it was involved in discussions with the Muslim students who had made the requests, the university was not planning to change any timetables.

"That would seriously inconvenience other people at the college and it is not institutionally viable," he told The Australian. "We are a secular institution ... and we need to have a structured timetable."

Mr Van Run said that Saudi students were fully aware that the university was secular before coming to study there. "They know well in advance the class times," he said.

Hear, hear.

The Cinema-Mad Sibling Recommends: "Kung Fu Panda"

For your viewing pleasure, the Cinema-Mad Sibling recommends this preview of the upcoming summer film, "Kung Fu Panda"!

Enjoy, grasshopper.

Quirky Euro Files: The Italian Robot That Can Make Coffee

A coffee-making robot?

This sounds awesome, but how good is the coffee?

(This post is dedicated to Il Barista, aka Coffee Pot Dictator. You know who you are, CPD.)

Africa, the US, and China

Interesting piece here for you to read.

Blurb here:

As things stand, the United States, with its emphasis on good government, democracy and rights has positioned itself to be the friend of African peoples, while China positions itself as a friend of African governments.

Interesting indeed.

It's a little odd how the media hasn't been covering Bush's visit to Africa very well -- or talking much at all about his policies in Africa either that have been beneficial.

Must rush off to the library -- sorry for the lapse in blogging!

US Olympic Athletes Will Pack Their Own Lunches in Beijing

This may be rude, but it's one way to make sure that nobody ends contaminated food . . . The US Olympic team now says that it will take its own food to Beijing this summer.

The discourtesy is overridden, I think, by the endless reports of unsafe Chinese food products. Heck, I don't blame the athletes one bit. In fact, I will also suggest that maybe they should consider wearing surgical masks when competing outside in Beijing's deplorably bad air pollution.

Taiwan Recognizes Independent Kosovo

Kosovo's declaration of independence has opened a gigantic international can of worms.

I've read various commentators who have wondered aloud if Kosovo's action will have ramifications for Taiwan. These have included my usual reads, Samizdata and Dignified Rant.

This is going to be a troublesome issue, but I can tell you a couple things even at this early date:

1. Taiwan has recognized independent Kosovo. UPDATE: DPP vice-presidential candidate Su Tseng-chang congratulated Kosovo and called it a model for Taiwan.
2. China is unhappy about Kosovo's unilateral declaration.
3. China is also unhappy about Taiwan's recognition of Kosovo. Beijing is saying that Taiwan has no right to issue such a recognition.
4. President Bush has now recognized Kosovar independence.

There's something else to think about. China, like Russia, is angry about Kosovar independence. BUT -- if China doesn't recognize Kosovo and establish ties with it, Kosovo might go ahead and establish ties with Taiwan, which has already said this: “Of course, we would like to develop further relations with countries which cherish democracy and freedom.” (from Phoebe Yeh, Taiwanese foreign ministry spokeswoman, commenting on Kosovo)

As a student of history, I can't help fighting a feeling of weird deja-vu. The Balkans have always been a tinder box -- and all out of proportion to its geographical size, as most tinder boxes are.

Funny Video of the Day: Michael Bay's Awesome Advertisement

This post is dedicated to the Cinema-Mad Sibling (a big Michael Bay fan!) and to everybody who likes "awesome" summer blockbuster movies full of eye-candy action.

Oh, and kudos to Michael Bay for having a sense of humor that can laugh at himself, too.

Enjoy.

Nerd Notes: Sarkozy Proposes New Holocaust Remembrance in French Schools

I'm not sure how French president Sarkozy's new proposal will (or can) work, but I have to give Sarko credit for having the nerve to propose it. He's already caught a great deal of criticism for doing so.

Here is an interesting personal commentary on the idea of teaching children about the Holocaust.

In fact, this may be a good time to talk about the idea of educating anybody about the Holocaust. Critics of the Sarko idea have said, among other things, that such close learning about the Holocaust is too traumatic for children. Maybe. But then again, learning about the Holocaust is traumatic for everybody who learns it properly. And you must learn it properly -- you must look evil squarely in the eye. I don't like doing it. I don't like looking at the horrifying images or the artifacts or any of it. Reading Anne Frank's diary, knowing what happens to her, makes my heart hurt. (And yes, I first read it when I was a little girl in the fifth grade.) Pain is part of remembering a complete history -- and it's a necessary pain. The alternative is the comfortable forgetting of the past -- and that is far worse.

Courage, Complaint, and Wikipedia's Medieval Images

Who ever thought that Wikipedia would in some small way come to represent a bulwark of preserving history? Wiki's a convenient source for quick access to information, though not all the info is correct all the time.

Now it's become embroiled in the latest flap over offending a certain easily-offended group. Here is the blurb:

Wikipedia, the free online encyclopaedia, is refusing to remove medieval artistic depictions of the Prophet Muhammad, despite being flooded with complaints from Muslims demanding the images be deleted.

More than 180,000 worldwide have joined an online protest claiming the images, shown on European-language pages and taken from Persian and Ottoman miniatures dating from the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, are offensive to Islam, which prohibits any representation of Muhammad. But the defiant editors of the encyclopaedia insist they will not bow to pressure and say anyone objecting to the controversial images can simply adjust their computers so they do not have to look at them.

Well, good on Wikipedia!

Yes, the medieval images are examples of history and should be preserved as such. Anyway, for an impartial encyclopedia to edit itself based on somebody else's offense is basically censorship of information, and that's the first step toward intellectual destruction. Free exchange of ideas and information is the foundation of meaningful research. Also, I am totally unsympathetic to the ideologically-driven destruction of cultural and historical objects during the Cultural Revolution in China; I am equally unsympathetic to the new Islamist equivalent.

Besides, here is an interesting thought. The supposedly offensive images come from Persian and Ottoman sources. You know, the current intolerant attitude toward images of Muhammad was not the only approach through the long history of Muslim culture, and it's useful to recall that.

Stanley Fish Supports Identity Politics

Well, of course he does. Fish does at least attempt to argue that not all identity politicking is good. Here is a blurb below.

The first bit about the evil of tribalistic identity politics is actually a pretty good point...until he undercuts himself by making a ludicrous comment about how we should elect a woman or a black president no matter what his or her positions happen to be (I am quoting Fish here!) just to "prove" that we're not sexist or racist -- which is a completely stupid reason to elect anybody. Take a look:

We should distinguish, I think, between two forms of identity politics. The first I have already named “tribal”; it is the politics based on who a candidate is rather than on what he or she believes or argues for. And that, I agree, is usually a bad idea. (I say “usually” because it is possible to argue that the election of a black or female president, no matter what his or positions happen to be, will be more than a symbolic correction of the errors that have marred the country’s history, and an important international statement as well.)

The second form of identity politics is what I call “interest” identity politics. It is based on the assumption (itself resting on history and observation) that because of his or her race or ethnicity or gender a candidate might pursue an agenda that would advance the interests a voter is committed to. Not only is there nothing wrong with such a calculation – it is both rational and considered – I don’t see that there is an alternative to voting on the basis of interest.

Nerd News: British Exams for Foreign Language May Drop Oral Component -- plus a rant!

Well, I see that the Idiotification of British Education continues apace.

Some edu-crats now want to drop the oral component of foreign language exams because this kind of testing is (here it comes) "too stressful" for students.

What?

Look at this!

Oral tests could be dropped from language GCSEs because they are "too stressful", according to a report.

. . . Lord Dearing emphasised that any change should not weaken the "validity of the assessment". But he said: "That has to be balanced against the risk that a test that is often highly stressful and over a short period, whilst accurate in its awards against performance on the day, is not a reliable test of the candidates' capability."

The report was accepted by the then-Education Secretary Alan Johnson in March 2007. A sharp fall in students taking language GCSEs had prompted the review.

The drop came after the government ended compulsory modern languages up to the age of 16 in 2004.

This makes no sense to me at all: if you study a modern foreign language, you should be able to understand that language both in a written and in a spoken form. This kind of practical proficiency is the heart of any foreign language education. This seems obvious.

In fact, this is so obvious that it utterly escapes today's misty-minded edu-crats. To paraphrase Orwell, nothing is so stupid that academics won't believe it. And try to implement it.

About the "stress" issue. Give me a break!

Pretty soon, some edu-crat somewhere will propose cancelling all exams because exams are "stressful." Everybody will automatically receive top marks for everything...which means that nobody learns anything at all and that marks are meaningless in the morass of mediocrity and mass ignorance. Oh, but the bubble-headed idiots wandering will be free from exam-stress!

I'll let you ponder this: if you want exam stress, I'll GIVE you exam stress. Be happy you're not taking the medieval Chinese civil service administrative exams, you modern British educational milquetoasts. You should be ashamed of yourselves. The nation that birthed Cambridge and Oxford during the depths of the Middle Ages, that produced intellectual giants of all fields, is now pewling about a little exam stress.

Get over it. I've had plenty of "stressful" exams (foreign language and otherwise) in my life, and I'm still alive and kicking -- and better because of those exams.

And here's a final idea. LIFE ITSELF IS STRESSFUL. To be alive is to be faced daily with stress of all kinds. The only way you'll ever be totally free from stress is IF YOU ARE STONE COLD DEAD.

Of course, it seems that edu-elites are trying to achieve the closest version of death without actually extinguishing lives -- they're trying to extinguish brains. Brain-dead is next to real dead.

Nerd Journal: Weekend Bliss

Weekend.
No school.
Hazelnut coffee.
Cake for breakfast.
The happy thought that tomorrow is a holiday.
Life is GOOD.

That is all. You may return to your own coffee, newspapers, and lazy Sunday plans!

(And yes, I *know* cake for breakfast is unhealthy. But it's sinful deliciousness. In fact, I did think briefly, very briefly, about making oatmeal for breakfast instead. Nope. As for the Food Fascist Health Police, I give them a big fat raspberry.)

Oh, and I'm also cheerfully reading something that has nothing to do with school. Perhaps I'll post a book review later.

Euro Notes: Danish lawmakers cancel visit to Iran

Danish lawmakers have canceled a visit to Iran after the mullahs demanded an apology for the now-infamous Mohammed cartoons. Plus the Danes refused to apologize.

Good on the Danes.

Besides, I don't think they have any actual right to apologize anyway, since that is the place of the cartoonists. The last thing we need now is more blame-spreading and blame-sharing and yes, group-blame.

More fallout from Spielberg's Pullout of Beijing Games

I had initially noted this here.

Now the fallout is continuing, while Beijing reacts predictably.

Will the Beijing Games now turn into the "protest games"? Spielberg seems to have opened the floodgates.

As for me, I'm happy for an opportunity to blow the lid off Beijing's propaganda.

Nerd News: Top UK Students Choose Ivy League Over Oxbridge

I've told you before about this increasingly common phenomenon of top European (not only British) students -- and faculty too -- who are choosing to come to the U.S.

Here is th latest from the UK, where top students are choosing the Ivy League and other US institutions instead of venerable old Oxbridge.

Interesting, interesting! It looks like people are -- what is that wonderful phrase? -- voting with their feet. All the Euro-twittering about the decline of the US doesn't seem so sincere when the brain drain is going straight to America, proud home of most of the top 10 universities in the world.

Hello Kitty Monstrosity of the Day: the Hello Kitty MMORPG Online Game

Believe it!

Click on the link and tremble in terror!

Nerd Notes: The 20 Ugliest College Campuses in America

Here's a list of the 20 ugliest college campuses in the US, and I must say, some are U-G-L-Y!

OK, well, there are some ugly buildings here in Nerdworld too, but they're hidden away, and I confess: ivy can cover a multitude of architectural sins.

Quirky Asia Files: Korean Phones Detect Love!

Seriously!

Some new cellphones in South Korea claim to detect the level of love in the caller's voice.

Blurb:

Valentines Day in South Korea means chocolates, romantic dinners and a high-tech mobile phone device that can secretly check the passion in the voice of a lover.

The "Love Detector" service from mobile operator KTF uses technology that is supposed to analyse voice patterns to see if a lover is speaking honestly and with affection.

"We created this service because we thought people would want to know what others were feeling about them," said Ahn Hee-jung, a KTF official.

(Meanwhile, new cellphones in North Korea claim to detect the level of treason in the caller's voice. JUST KIDDING.)

Obligatory Valentine's Day Post About Relationships

Well, I lied. This isn't really about relationships per se as much it's about people saying extremely idiotic things about other people and relationships.

Take a look at this abysmally ludicrous piece. On second thought, don't. Why would you want to clutter up your perfectly lucid brain with this tripe? One blurb should be enough to give you a taste:

. . . every woman I know — no matter how successful and ambitious, how financially and emotionally secure — feels panic, occasionally coupled with desperation, if she hits 30 and finds herself unmarried.

Oh, I know — I’m guessing there are single 30-year-old women reading this right now who will be writing letters to say that the women I know aren’t widely representative, that I’ve been co-opted by the cult of the feminist backlash, and basically, that I have no idea what I’m talking about. And all I can say is, if you say you’re not worried, either you’re in denial or you’re lying. In fact, take a good look in the mirror and try to convince yourself that you’re not worried, because you’ll see how silly your face looks when you’re being disingenuous.

Oh, yeah? Sorry, but I'm unmarried and I'm looking at the big 3-0, and I'm not panicking or depressed or any of that. I'm also not in denial. The writer of this article is acting like an idiot (and an arrogant one too) if she thinks she can speak for all unmarried women everywhere. Just who does she think she is? Pffffft. I don't need some moron speaking for me, no matter how she thinks she can be the all-knowing mouthpiece of Woman. I will speak for myself, thanks. Isn't this kind of individual freedom the real point for "women's liberation"?

Now I thought about posting a rant in response, but then I found that the lovely Rachel Lucas has already done so, and she is in fine form.

Enjoy.

I'll tell you what: things like that stupid MSNBC piece are all the proof you need that some women can be completely asinine too.

UPDATE: A new survey says that 55% of single people are not actively looking for a partner. You know, some single people are happy being single. Some of us are happy as we are and don't feel the need to hunt for a mate as though our entire existence depends on not being single. Chew on THAT, Lori Gottlieb of MSNBC!

Spielberg Quits as Artistic Advisor of Beijing Olympics

Mr. Spielberg is citing reasons of conscience, saying that China has not done enough to stop the suffering in Darfur.

Well, good. I'm glad to see somebody famous say so -- maybe the media will actually listen for a second or two. One news story wonders if now, with Spielberg's decision, other people will pull out of the Games. At least let people talk openly about China's misdeeds! (Though apparently it helps if you're a celebrity!)

Libertas notes that actress Mia Farrow had been advocating this also. More here.

As for the Beijing Games, Spielberg's departure as artistic adviser is said to be a rather a large setback.

FINE. If Beijing wants to use the Games as a chance to throw propaganda at the world and whitewash its behavior, then let others use the chance to talk some truth about China. Turnabout is fair play.

Hitchens versus Williams on UK Sharia

Christopher Hitchens versus Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury.

Hitchens can be an abrasive, self-important lout, but -- in all honesty -- Williams' recent fatuous (and dangerous) comments about sharia law probably deserve a heaping helping of Hitchens' verbal hell.

I haven't had time to blog and link about this latest flap in the UK, but suffice it to say, even the Queen is now involved.

My quick comment: one of the fundamental features of a truly free society is one law for all.

UPDATE: The humorists at Iowahawk have created something that Chaucer would love, I think! And of course, remember that Geoffrey Chaucer Hath a Blog, for all you fans of the brilliant and humorous 14th-century English poet.

Photoblogging: Singapore Cuisine!

A very lucky member of Samizdata had a chance to go to Singapore and sample the lovely food.

He has blogged and photoblogged the entire experience.

Oh, I am envious of his good fortune! I don't know when I'll have the chance to go to the Far East -- maybe not this year at all. *whine*

Quirky Asia Files: "Smoke on the Water" -- Japanese Style!

Awesome! You've never seen or heard "Smoke on the Water" quite like this! East meets West in a darn interesting way.

Link shamelessly stolen from Samizdata.

Arrested: Spies Giving US Defense Secrets to China

Several men have been arrested, but who knows how many more are still operating?

Nerd Notes: How Should Professors Dress?

How should professors dress for success?

And what about the dress code for graduate students? Rags. Sackcloth. Ashes. Anything else?

Nerd Notes: Time to Argue -- "What is the Worst Mistake in British History?"

What was the worst mistake ever made in British history?

The Times newspaper is asking for your opinion, and plenty of people are piping up!

I have to say, though, that "greatest mistake" is not necessarily the same thing as "greatest disaster."

So! What do you think?

I also have to point out the most utterly stupid response yet:

". . . the worst mistake in the history of the human race, let alone Britain, was the replacement of hunter-gathering by agriculture, which fuelled rapid population growth, urbanisation and disease."

Sheer idiocy.

Happy Chinese New Year!

It doesn't matter if you call it the Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year, Spring Festival, or whatever.

HAPPY YEAR OF THE RAT!

Have a great time with friends, family, ,food, and fun!

I can't help but comment: since this year is going to be full of politicians everywhere, the Year of the RAT seems to be a rather...appropriate name! (Interesting elections are going on not only in the US but elsewhere too, such as Taiwan and Italy.)

Your Life in 6 Words

Can you describe your entire life in only 6 words?

Take a look at some folks who have.

My favorites include the following:

1. Not quite finished, tell you later.
2. Bored, so bored, so very bored.
3. Any chance I could start over?

Food Fest: the UK's Top 20 Chinese Restaurants

Chinese New Year is fast approaching with the Year of the Rat!

(And no, I don't plan on eating any rat, though other people might.)

Anyway, amid the snow and cold and homework and research, I'm beginning to dream of lovely food. I will be making dumplings. Lots and lots and lots of dumplings.

For those of you who would rather go out to eat, I have an interesting news link for you if you happen to live in Great Britain: the UK's top 20 Chinese restaurants.

Taiwan: UN Referenda Scheduled

The Taiwanese electorate will vote on March 22 on 2 referenda on using the name "Taiwan" in the island's next attempt to join the United Nations.

Beijing is having its usual apoplectic reaction.

I have posted previously on the referendum issue here.

Hillary Health Care: Whether You Want It or Not

And this is why I remain stubbornly in opposition. Mandatory anything makes me furious.

Look at this rotten quote:

Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton said Sunday she might be willing to garnish the wages of workers who refuse to buy health insurance to achieve coverage for all Americans.

The New York senator has criticized presidential rival Barack Obama for pushing a health plan that would not require universal coverage. Clinton has not always specified the enforcement measures she would embrace, but when pressed on ABC's "This Week," she said: "I think there are a number of mechanisms" that are possible, including "going after people's wages, automatic enrollment."

BAH!

Plus did you see what else? Hillary criticized Obama because Obama's plan would be voluntary. Hillary obviously thinks her mandatory plan is better. I repeat: mandatory anything makes me furious. And what does this say? Criticizing freedom of choice?? Criticizing Obama because his plan is VOLUNTARY?

I find it deeply ironic that Hillary can support the right of a woman to choose abortion, but she won't let a far larger group of Americans choose how to deal with their health via medical plans.
Plus, I absolutely hate Clinton's idea of rule-by-fiat on this issue!

PS: the government already drains too much money from me in the form of taxes! So Hillary wants to raise taxes AND pull more money from unwilling Americans who don't want her health plan? I didn't need a reminder of why this cold-eyed socialist makes me ill.

(Law) Nerd Analysis: Self-Defense as a Human Right

Yes, it is, even if the UN doesn't think so. If I am threatened in any way, you better believe I will defend myself by any means necessary and -- yes -- with force if there is no other viable option.

Check out this PDF of a law article on the subject of self-defense as a human right.

Actually, given the way things are going in international circles, pretty soon the only things that aren't human rights will be robust self-defense, self-determination, and freedom of choice in living my life (including eating whatever I darn well please).

Quirky Euro Files: EU as Benevolent Despot

I file this link under "Quirky Euro Files" namely because the "analysis" inside it is so...well, quirky.

This quote from a recent article in the Guardian made me laugh out loud:

"The EU is easily the most popular and successful empire in history . . ."

Are you kidding me? Oh, yeah, the EU really eclipses those pitiful little past excuses for empire -- like Rome or Great Britain. Pffffffft.

The Cinema-Mad Sibling Recommends: "An Empress and the Warriors"

The Cinema-Mad Sibling recommends the upcoming film "An Empress and the Warriors."

Here is the website, and do take a look at the trailer via YouTube. Here are a large number of cool posters and images from the film.

The Sibling is all excited that Donnie Yen will be starring! Plus, it's a period film with lots of action. And a cute Asian girl wearing armor. Time to get ready for an epidemic of yellow fever, I guess.

Ian Buruma: Culture is no excuse for China to deny democracy

Ian Buruma says something worthwhile. Of course, it's the same thing that I've been saying for a really long time!

Anyway, the gist of it is: stop saying that Asian culture is incompatible with democracy, and stop using "cultural sensitivity" as an excuse to let repressive Asian regimes get away with tyranny, oppression, and murder.

Here is a quote worth looking at:

. . . culture is often a poor excuse for inhumanity. Slavery, female circumcision or stoning of adulterous women are undoubtedly part of certain cultures, in that they are traditional practices. So is widow burning in India. This is not a good argument, however, for continuing such practices.

Well, now that's not at all politically correct. But that doesn't mean the statement is false. As for the argument from tradition, I am reminded of this lovely and sardonic visual reply.

Also, look at this:

A few decades ago, it was fashionable, especially in Singapore and Malaysia, to talk about 'Asian values'. Obedience to authority, sacrificing self-interest to what governments defined as national interests, accepting curbs on free speech, all these things were claimed to be specifically Asian, part of ancient traditions, something all Asians had in their cultural DNA. In fact, it was a justification of authoritarian politics inherited by the likes of Prime Ministers Mahathir and Lee Kuan Yew from the British empire.

Even as the Asian values were being touted, South Koreans, Taiwanese, Thais, Chinese and Filipinos were demonstrating in huge numbers against their authoritarian rulers. In South Korea, Taiwan and, more fitfully, Thailand and the Philippines, they succeeded. And what was it that the Burmese were risking their lives for recently . . .

One reason why Taiwan is such a tricky problem for the Chinese government is precisely its politics. If Chinese culture demands authoritarian politics, or what Ambassador Wu would call 'Chinese democracy', then what about Taiwan? Are the Taiwanese any less Chinese?

Most of this is fine, though I don't really think the last bit (Taiwanese = Chinese) is really entirely accurate. Remember that old saying that China is a culture masquerading as a state? As for Taiwan, whether you want to believe it or not, there is such a thing as Taiwanese identity.

The point remains, though: statements about Asian culture being antithetical to democracy and the values of a free society can be, at their worst, the tacit condoning of Asian tyrannies -- not to mention deeply offensive to freedom-loving Asians everywhere. Also, do I really have to remind you about Tiananmen Square?

Quirky Euro Files: Was Winston Churchill a Real Person? 25% of Britons Don't Know

You must be joking! And the idiotification of the masses continues apace.

Oh, surely it's not THAT bad . . . is it?

Nerd Journal: Best. Super. Bowl. Ever! Plus Cool Video Link

As my brother said, when he gave me thrilled phone call from across the country, "Now that's what a Super Bowl should be like!"

Yes, I was one of the record-breaking number of 97.5 million people who watched the Giants' amazing victory over the Patriots last night.

Here it is again, sports fans, the Manning Miracle: fantastic video of Giants quarterback Eli Manning's laser-like throw to teammate David Tyree, who makes a heart-stopping, spectacular catch in mid-air.

On other related matters -- the Super Bowl commercials. I've linked to my favorite of the night -- for your amusement (especially for all you children of the 1980s!):

More Finger-wagging Guilt for "Meat Guzzlers" like Me

Another day, another stupidly superior-sounding and patently offensive attempt by the pseudo-moralistic do-gooder killjoys trying to regulate MY life and choices.

This time, I give you the New York Times, trying to tell me that I shouldn't eat meat because of *insert endless list of pietistic reasons, including the inevitable "meat causes global warming" argument.*

The news story actually uses the word "meat-guzzler"! And it does this with the same unbridled condescension and contempt it uses for talking about large cars as "gas-guzzlers." Apparently I, your humble blog hostess, am a monster of multiple perversions because I love a good steak. Not only am I a murderer of animals (see PETA, naturally), but I am also heartlessly destroying the world in my pursuit of the perfect prime rib or yummy pork chop. Oh, yes, the eco-acolytes of Gaia and the Goracle will come and haul me away, forcing me to eat nothing but locally grown, organically planted alfalfa sprouts until I'm cured of my carnivorous sinning ways.

I cannot TELL you how much I absolutely hate, despise, and abominate these culinary crusades that are being mounted by the ever-increasing phalanxes of the prowling food fascist police!

You just wait: in a dystopian vision of the future, there will be entire squads of food police patrolling the streets and bursting into people's homes to look for contraband, forbidden food items. Some bloated nanny government will be watching...and somewhere some really bad nanny state may well ban all meat and meat production in its borders in the name of the "greater good" of "saving the world." I won't be surprised if laws get passed to FINE me for possession of *insert food item.*

In the name of eco-morality and whatnot, these petty tyrants have been trying to tell me what to do on every conceivable level of personal choice and action -- including, lest we all forget, the spectacle of eco-singer Sheryl Crow trying to tell me (and you too) that we should only use 1 square of toilet paper per visit to the W.C.

God save us from people on moral crusades!

Meanwhile, my reply to the meat-preachers is the same as my reply to the people who want to ban cupcakes, the people who want to restrict ice cream, and certainly to the same people who want to dump guilt on me because I like buying imported food items.

YOU CAN HAVE MY DINNER WHEN YOU PRY IT OUT OF MY COLD, DEAD HAND!

Now, please pass the steak sauce.

China and its "obsessive-compulsive approach to Taiwan"

I found this little blurb in a HK paper to be rather interesting in various ways. Anyway, here's a bit and a quote:

The One China policy is less to do with geostrategic necessity and more about domestic political chest baring.

Susan Shirk has noted in her book China: Fragile Superpower: "The roots of the Chinese fixation on Taiwan are purely domestic, related to regime security, not national security. The [Chinese] public cares about Taiwan because they have been taught to care," by the party.

Oh, one more comment from me: it seems pretty clear to me that China's obsession with Taiwan isn't about national security. It's about China's own self-image. It's about "face" on a wide scale -- and also about its own domestic insecurities and desire to throw its weight around.

Of course, China's going to obsess about Taiwan in unhealthy ways, and of course it's going to whip up Taiwan-centric emotional garbage among its populace whenever it can. The result is, on a personal social level, the creation of insulting yet defensive discomfort and a total inability to depart from state propaganda. Oh, I could tell you stories. In fact, so can some of my relatives. The short version of a phenomenon that repeats endlessly:

~Happy polite Taiwanese-American meets someone from mainland China.
~Introductions and pleasantries are exchanged. "Hello, nice to meet you, etc."
~Chinese native then asks, "Are you from China?"
~Answer, given cheerfully with a smile: "No, from Taiwan."
~Chinese native immediately becomes emotional, hostile, and angry and begins to shout: "TAIWAN BELONGS TO CHINA! TAIWAN IS PART OF CHINA!!!"
~*Sigh*
~Well, this is no way to foster better understanding!

I add a moment that happened to me at school some years ago, after the standard exchange outlined above:

~Chinese native: "Do you speak Chinese?"
~MM: "I speak Taiwanese at home."
~Chinese native: "That's not a real language!"
~MM, feeling insulted: *turns around and leaves before she says something rude*

Op-Ed Surprise: Europe Should Oppose China's Excesses

Well, well, well! Take a look at this interesting little op-ed piece.

Take a look:

China is run by a brutal, authoritarian government that lends active support to some of the world's most odious regimes. It is also the fourth biggest - and fastest-growing - economy on earth. Its spectacular commercial success will be paraded before the world when Beijing hosts the Olympic Games this summer.

Given China's economic clout, it is not surprising that Western governments tread carefully when dealing with the question of political freedom. It is not that they ignore the human rights issue, it is that they downgrade it in their diplomacy, for fear of giving offence and being singled out for economic reprisal. So Beijing feels secure in the belief that domestic repression bears no relationship to successful global economic integration.

. . . In the long run, that is bad for China. Enforced political conformity will eventually show up in a less-innovative, less-efficient economy and a more brittle state, prone to unrest in the event of a downturn.

But Chinese authoritarianism is also bad for the world.

China is now the planet's largest emitter of carbon dioxide thanks to a poisonous power-generation programme. Censorship also makes it harder to check the spread of contagious disease and harder to expose the regulatory corruption that means unsafe goods find their way on to global markets.

Last week, the official Communist party organ, the Peoples' Daily, anticipating increased scrutiny ahead of the Olympics, attacked China's critics on the now familiar grounds that the country has the right to pursue economic progress on its own terms. But as China's power goes global, its methods become ever more the legitimate business of the international community. Besides, China needs global economic partnership.

Alone, Britain has little leverage over Beijing, but as part of the European Union, the world's largest single market, London has a powerful voice. Co-ordinated European action could force China to modify its stance as, indeed, it has done to a degree by cooling its support for the governments of Sudan and Burma. The Chinese government is not immune to pressure. It respects economic power. It does not heed its internal critics because they are commercially irrelevant. The EU is not. It must use the power that wealth brings to speak up for those in China who have been silenced.

OK, so I'm not personally that convinced about the EU being able or even willing to do anything. I still remember voices in the EU wanting to lift the ban on selling arms to Beijing (*MM still mad about that, BTW*) . Still, at least somebody out there in Euroland has sense enough to say that China's autocratic nature and behavior is bad for everyone and that the free West should do more.

Football and Politics: Clash of the Titans

It's Super Bowl football madness weekend!

And politics.

On both fronts, we're going to get a clash of the Titans.

Super Bowl Football: Patriots versus Giants!

Presidential Politics:

• Dems: Hillary versus Obama!
• GOP: McCain versus Romney!
  

I knew that the number of candidates will drop quickly, but I really liked the entire chaotic mess of all those crazy politicians running to the first primaries. Now we're left only with the 2 real possibilities for both sides.

(Besides, I'm now sick and tired of the Billary 2-headed Clinton monster -- and more sick of Bill being an attack dog who can neither control himself nor stop hogging the spotlight for himself. He seems to think this election is all about him. He's also lost all his charm; his vitriol and poisonous attacks sound increasingly shrill, desperate, and divisive to his own party. His attack on Kennedy for the Kennedy endorsement of Obama was ugly -- and I found it amusing to see two old Washington power-elite establishment camps fighting over Obama the "new guy." You can't get a more old-power, Washington-aristocrat, insider establishment name than Clinton or Kennedy. As for Hillary the Feminist -- wait, feminist? Some kind of feminist! She's depending on her husband to do the dirty work of attacking Obama, while she's using the Clinton brand and clout to push herself on. On this campaign, she's depending on . . . her man!)

I think I'll have more fun watching the football, actually. The Super Bowl commercials, I hope, will be good. And if not, well, Super Bowl watching is really about food and friends. Better than politics! Besides, delicious hot wings!

Besides, I'd MUCH rather watch the Patriots and the Giants play the game than watch the venom-spouting 2-headed Clinton monster attempt to eat cheerful Obama in the name of "progress." Besides, Eli Manning and Tom Brady are easy on the eyes . . . especially eyes sore from too much nerd-reading. *attempt at schoolgirl giggle*

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Geek News: the Quiet Death of Netscape Navigator

It's the end of Netscape Navigator, the first real Internet browser that I ever used, all those years ago.

Requiescat in pace!

Geek News: Microsoft + Yahoo = Microhoo?

Here is some tech news right from my email, as the computer-wizard Sibling sent this news link.

Microsoft has made a $44 billion bid for Yahoo. As the Sibling asked, does this mean "Microsoft + Yahoo = Microhoo"?

I now ask: what if Google decides to join in? Will we then have "Microhoogle"?

Book Review: 3 books on China

The Times Literary Supplement has a book review -- well, book overview, really, of 3 new books on China.

Do take a look. They look interesting! Not, of course, that I need to add any more books to my neverending list of books I should read.