Author Archives: idj4thinking

I’m a compulsive busy-body. If I don’t have a way of keeping myself busy, I tend to go a little bit crazy. Understanding my goals is key to me being psychologically well. I think this is why ideology like libertarianism appeals to me, because it gives me a broader goal to scheme towards since lifeContinue reading “What to do less of”

Everyone wants to be able to judge other people, but few want to be placed on the scale. There are three ways to resolve this tension. The first is to say no holds barred, everyone can judge everyone. This strategy is one that typically helps those on the bottom because it allows for exchange withoutContinue reading “Blame, Judgement Day, Polite Society”

Some of your takes are better than others, and in today’s climate, anyone is at risk bi-directionally. While it may be comfortable to talk about intolerance in the general abstract sense, heaven forbid someone actually expresses a belief that’s currently unfashionable. In the meantime, the rest of us have to figure out how to communicateContinue reading “Evil Twins, or not owning your contrarian takes”

The TSA, one of America’s most venerated institution is under attack by anti-American communist sympathizers. As I waited on line waiting to come online, I noticed lots of grumbling at the amount of time that the TSA was taking. Critics complain that the TSA’s power undermines efficiency, speed, and due process. What these critics failContinue reading “A Humble Request”

As someone who considers himself apt at the deceptive arts, I think the Mole is one of the most entertaining shows on television. This is because unlike other reality shows, people have to be openly deceptive. The winners require the ability to maintain competitive advantage and understand other people’s theory of mind. It’s cerebral andContinue reading “Avoiding Gatekeeping The Mole”

I come from a shaved face family. Our family’s traditions prize cleanliness, eight-blade razors, and moisturizing. I stand athwart the razor, yelling “Stop!” While I cooperate removing the stubble elsewhere on my face, I preserve the idiosyncratic mustache. I’ve robbed the world of another clean-shaven face. I’m able to distinguish myself from other people. IContinue reading “Mustache Rebellion”

Some of the most interesting content is salacious and downright scandalous. I’d like to imagine myself brave enough to admit things I’m not proud of about myself on my blog, but the prospect is terrifying. The more benefit I get from engaged readers, I lose from having people who aren’t pleased with my choices seeingContinue reading “Juicy Details Not Contained”

Probably the worst thing you can do is react adversely to being treated as if something not your fault is your fault. Evidence of the coverup in some sense is worse than the crime because if you were to react negatively to being told you made a mistake, you’re not only responsible for the mistake,Continue reading “Staying Cool Under Pressure”