Currsmtcmmments " When the Apes Speak, Lin@sts Listen. Part 2. What the Critics Say

Some thoughts on a therapeutic state of mind.

The following is an attempt to delineate a state of mind deemed “therapeutic.” Bion’s (1967) paper on “Memory and Desire” has been a prevailing influence. Eigen serves as another source of inspiration (e.g., Eigen, 2005). Yet, and this seems to be the whole point stated succinctly, nothing could have been expressed here that is meaningful unless it was completely owned by self. First, I would l...

Response to Critics of When the People Speak: The Deliberative Deficit and What To Do About It

Exposing some myths about physician-assisted suicide.

When I was asked to speak at this conference, I was at first hesitant to participate. In fact, I dreaded the prospect of speaking about the legalization of physician-assisted suicide. It's not that I have nothing to say on the issue; like everyone here, I too have something to say about it. Nor have I failed to think about this issue; on the contrary, I've had more than ample opportunity to pon...

Book Review: "Loving Literature. A Cultural History"

It is widely acknowledged that emotion is deeply embedded in literary criticism. Even when we aspire to scientific analysis and objectivity, we assume that we share a love of literature. Loving Literature is a deep and fascinating exploration of this important assumption. Literary critics and professors of literature are expected not only to know but also to love their work. In the case of prof...

Defining a middle ground for philosophers and production: bioethics.

From the perspective of most animal scientists and producers, animal agriculture has become increasingly contentious over the last 10 to 20 years. Furthermore, our critics seem to be extremists whose views are biased and unreasonable. But guess what? The critics say the same thing about animal producers and scientists (us). So where is the middle ground and how do we get there? Should we even w...