An absolutely damning article about the Bush Administration

Very disturbing that we’re again incompetent in the face of a resurgent Al Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This is one of yet several articles I have recently read warning us about a potential terrorist attack.  I can’t even picture the implications that such an attack would have upon the future of American society.

Ramblings

–Very excited about the Dark Knight as I’ve stated on this blog previously.  Am attending an IMAX showing of it this Saturday.

–Found out last night why people dislike going out in the Marina.  That said, it is a fantastic area to live in: safe, clean, quiet and near all the amenities.

Couple of sports thoughts:

1) Early top 8 in the NBA’s Western Conference: 1) LA (+Bynum) 2) San Antonio (Still have Duncan) 3) Utah (solid nucleus) 4) New Orleans (thought they were a little fluky this season)  5) Portland (+Bayless and Oden) 6) Phoenix (if Shaq is motivated, move them up)  7) Dallas (will be out of the playoffs in 2 years)  Denver (great lineup on paper, not in real life)

2) East: 1) Boston (they’ll probably lose Posey which will hurt) 2) Detroit (depends on their next moves) 3) Philly (assuming Brand is healthy)  4) Cleveland 5) Orlando (loves to overpay mediocre guys) 6) Toronto (depending on how O’Neal and Bosh mesh, could move up)  7) Washington (another year, another 1st round exit) 8)  Atlanta (rising, but the East is tougher this year)

Love the fact that the Giants signed another top notch Latin prospect. With Buster Posey on board and some nice arms, they are starting to accumulate the talent they need to successfully rebuild.  I admit I haven’t watched them much this season (sans Timmy L starts).

Is it me, or does it seem like the A’s will have a totally different team next year?

A Book Recommendation:

While behavioral economics has not really received mainstream status, it is a rising and groundbreaking field of study.  More and more, as economists are able to achieve more certainty in results, behavioral econ will influence public policy decisions.  In their book “Nudge”, Cass Sunstein and Richard Thaler elaborate on certain proven tendencies in human behavior and use those tendencies to craft subtle policy changes.   The authors, calling their platform “Liberal Paternalism” seek to nudge individuals into making better decisions while still allowing them freedom to choose.  Approximately 250 pages, the book is well-written, clear enough for the average reader, insightful and engaging.  The book was recommended to me and I’m very glad I picked it up.

If you want to read something lighter and more humorous and still somewhat insightful–I recommend the “Know-It-All.” Also recommended to me by a friend, the book is a treasure trove of random, yet interesting facts and of personal observation and reflection.