Chamblee54

Bloggingheads likes to have a science podcast on saturday, frequently with these two old men. This week, they were all over the place. The first “write it down” moment was at 39:00, when someone said that people who wear bicycle helmets are more likely to have accidents. This was related to the way that plastic helmets have led to harder hitting in football, with an increase in injuries.
The next high point came at 51:00, with a consideration of “the moral calculus of weeds”. This took up the rest of the hour, with the comment that “you’re lucky those weeds are rooted in the ground and can’t come back after you”. There are pesticide resistant weeds, the air pollution caused by tillers versus chemical controls, and all sorts of spill off issues. The closing comment about weeds not seeking (obvious) revenge reminded PG of the deer hunt balance, with zero hunters shot by a deer.
The text only internet is not to be denied. Obsidianwings supplies this tasteful quote by Sean Hannity: (spell check suggestions:Hannibal, humanity) “Hannity: I’ve actually had an idea — no one listens to little ol’ Sean Hannity. But I’m like — I think the Iraqis, with all their oil resources, need to pay us back for their liberation. Every single solitary penny. “
Aside from the jaw dropping amorality here, there is a practical reason to oppose this. As a commenter says ” I am sure the Kuwaitis will be very happy to relieve Iraq of reparations from 1990, just so the money could be sent to us…not to mention the rest of the international community that was strong armed to reduce or eliminate Saddam era debts.
Aside from whether we deserve Iraqi money, debt would destroy any chance (however slim)of Iraq emerging from a nightmare. We would get neither money nor “victory.”
Mr. Hannity used to work in Atlanta, before he became a Fox superstar. PG stalked him once.
It was during a parade downtown. Veterans Day comes to mind…a weekday parade that does not get a large crowd. Mr. Hannity was riding in a convertible, waving at the crowds. PG began to follow the car, looking at Mr. Hannity with a blank look. Finally, the talent took notice of PG, and said “Are we having fun yet?”
Pictures are from The Library of Congress.