The downside of diversity

Zinger — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 21:07:51 -0400

Description:

A Harvard professor's research suggests that diversity can 'bring out the turtle is all of us' and t

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The Reading Experience Database

Zinger — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 10:35:07 -0400

Description:

A database containing as much information as possible about what British people read, where and when

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Should the state focus on happiness, rather than wealth?

Zinger — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 20:38:50 -0400

Description:

...happiness levels have remained flat, while incomes have been rising sharply. In other words, alth

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Lots of sizzle, not enough steak

Zinger — Fri, 21 Apr 2006 18:03:05 -0400

Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

rating:
asin: 006073132X
binding: Hardcover
list price: $25.95 USD
amazon price: $25.95

This book has had a tremendous amount of buzz, and so I was curious as to what a 'rogue economist' had to say that was so interesting.

And indeed, the book has its moments, as when it compares realtors to the Klan and asks what McDonald's and a gang hierarchy might have in common. Perhaps most controversial is the author's contention that legalized abortion contributed to crime rate changes.

The economist does pose some interesting questions and then goes about answering them in a rational, strictly by the numbers fashion. The book prompts you to think about the real relationships underlying sociological phenomenon.

The book suffers though, from the lack of an overall theme and direction. Most frustrating is the fact that the book asks a fairly important question - do parents really have any impact on how their kids turn out? - and then fails to answer it. The book fizzles out on an analysis of naming patterns and the implications for your child's future. That section starts out being interesting, but carries on far too long.

Ponderfodder - sociology

The downside of diversity

The Reading Experience Database

Should the state focus on happiness, rather than wealth?

Lots of sizzle, not enough steak