Statistical charts provide one of the most effective tools for conveying information (and misinformation) When a commentator presents a graph as "proof" of their argument, view it with great care. Graphics can help describe patterns of behavior and provide evident of structural connections, but they never prove anything. Scientists must continually subject theoretical "proofs" to … Continue reading Graphic Comparisons

There seems to be some confusion amongst high-ranking members of President Trump’s cabinet as to whether tariffs are or are not taxes. To settle the question, I spoke to one of the few economists whom I really trust. I asked sincerely, “Are tariffs taxes or not?” He turned red in the face and said, “Jim, … Continue reading Tariffs are Taxes

Introduction Do humans act as collectives, groups, or individuals? Because of their discrete nature, humans cannot be part of a collective. When one or more individuals gather, they do not represent a single entity; yet, many commentators refer to people as “us” or “them”. By referring to people as collectives, communicators intend to create conflicts … Continue reading Collective, Group, or Individual

Introduction Humans spend a huge amount of time in conversation of one sort or another. During the period in which I grew up, conversations consisted of written letters or telephone calls (limited by time and distance). Today, you can text or call anyone anywhere in the world with a device you carry with you. The … Continue reading Conversation

People do not seem to appreciate the importance of trust in binding civilization and society. We think that laws, contracts, and religion draw separate individuals together to create the complex network of connections that we refer to as civilization. I contend that without trust, civilization and society would collapse. It would require a rather lengthy … Continue reading Importance of Trust

The art of extortion The dust-up between Presidents Trump and Zelensky has garnered a tremendous amount of attention since it occurred last Friday. Most of the commentary has been about the dynamics between the two individuals. I do not, as most have, want to take sides between these two men. If I have to take … Continue reading The Art of the Steal

Yes, wake up America!! If Kamala Harris gets to implement her economic policies, you are in for some really tough times. I’m old enough that I might avoid the worst of it. But I have seen a lot of this stuff in the past. In high school, we had to practice crawling under our desks … Continue reading Wake Up America