It is to hedge our losses if we fail to deal with climate change — Climate change will affect many aspects of our lives. Our attempts to respond to it should likewise be multifaceted. I have reduced my consumption levels, watched my carbon dioxide emissions, and wrote to lawmakers to encourage them to pass legislation subsidizing clean energy and phase out fossil fuel usage. This…

Bambification has done little for the cause of the sambar deer. — What are wild animals? Are they ferocious beasts to be feared? Are they innocent creatures to be protected? Should they be viewed instrumentally as an integral part of the ecosystem? Are they individuals with life stories that we must accord the same degree of dignity as we accord our fellow…

Speculative demand in rosewood furniture, a heart wrenching humanitarian crisis, the criminal destruction of the natural environment and tourism potential of Madagascar, and the release of gigatons of carbon dioxide. — This post could have been titled “If you buy rosewood furniture today, you are a complete idiot.” I figured that headline would probably gain at least two to three times more views.

Why Charles Darwin described the Voyage of the HMS Beagle as the most important event in his life, and how the species of fox he found during the voyage is faring. — Who Is Charles Darwin? Most of us know that Charles Darwin for his contribution to the science of evolution. Less is known about his early work as a naturalist and an author. Very few books by naturalists or about nature come to mind that could rival Charles Darwin’s The Voyage of the Beagle.

There is some good news in 2020 as marine reserves around penguin breeding and feeding grounds are established but challenges remain. — A Well-Loved Creature I really like penguins. Penguins are very well-loved and popular creatures. Their wobbling on land is extremely comical. There are plenty of videos online documenting the absolute delight that is penguins. I spend too much time looking at penguins on Instagram, to be honest.

Because there is no spoon — Idon’t know when it started. Recently, I noticed that when you describe to people your interests, there will invariably be someone who will tell you that your interest may be an opportunity to make money. This constant desire to extract value out of everyday activities is associated with what is…

I now accept the wisdom of Greta Thunberg. — Greta Thunberg is correct. Governments are not taking sufficient action against climate change. Immediate action by world leaders to reduce carbon dioxide emissions is required. Pledges to reduce carbon dioxide based on decade long timeframes are exercises in fantasy. …

Blondes, redheads, and sexism in the English language. — He acts like a girl. She doesn't know how to get along with the boys. The President describes how he can grab women by the genitals because of his star power. These are all examples of sexist language. The last example is particularly egregious because it justifies rapey behaviour as…

I tried to prime my environment for good habits and instead discovered the importance of the ritual itself. Here is why you need non-useful habits. — I am a fan of Atomic Habits, the book authored by James Clear. The book describes how the repetition of atomic habits can change your behaviour. The author provides many realistic tips on how good habits can be formed. These tips avoid wishy-washy and hard to implement aspirational “tips” that…