Guest Thinkers — December 21, 2010

Sada al-Malahim # 10

Thanks to the many readers who have written in with the news that the new issue of Sada al-Malahim is out. Unfortunately, I am still busy with a couple of pressing projects and have turned the keys of Waq al-waq over to Brian for the moment, so any in-depth analysis will have to wait.

However, I can’t resist a couple of quick comments. First, AQAP seems to be reacting to the press and is definitely pushing former Guantanamo detainees to the forefront. (Including one I am still trying to locate) One of the former escapees from the February 2006 just got married – life on the run is obviously tough (that is tongue in cheek for those new to our particular commenting style).

There is also the will of one of the March suicide bombers and a supplement to the magazine on the two March suicide bombings.

For those seeking more information on the latest issue, you can A.) wait for my return or B.) hash it out yourselves in the comment section.

Collage of classical art suggesting a theme related to somatic markers.

Business

How “somatic markers” can transform your decision-making

Ditch the old brain vs. heart assumptions, and instead think about a heart-led brain.

A black and white image of a bunch of spheres, symbolizing the multiverse concept discussed by scientists.

Starts With A Bang

How logic and reasoning can fail as scientific tools

In logic, 'reductio ad absurdum' shows how flawed arguments fall apart. Our absurd Universe, however, often defies our intuitive reasoning.

A wooden sign indicating "assisted migration rep 2" in a pine forest under a clear blue sky.

Life

Moving trees north to save the forests

As the world warms, trees in forests such as those in Minnesota will no longer be adapted to their local climates. That’s where assisted migration comes in.

Historical map illustration depicting a planned city layout with a circular central area and radiating streets.

Strange Maps

Ohio’s Circleville ditched the grid system. Then it got squared.

A small Ohio town tried to escape America’s addiction to rectangular grids. It didn’t last long.

Bullet Cluster separation mass gravity x-ray lensing

Starts With A Bang

Flagship NASA space telescope faces a penny-pinching death

NASA's only flagship X-ray telescope ever, Chandra, still works and has no planned successor. So why does the President want to kill it?

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