Ghost of a flea: Connections

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May 19, 2004

Connections

Canadians Are Smug returns to James Burke's view of the future from 1979. Quoting Burke here:

Today, the people who make things change - the people who have that knowledge - are the scientists and technologists who are the true driving force of humanity. And before you say, "What about the Beethovens and the Michelangelos?" (tsk), let me suggest something with which you may disagree violently.

That at best, the products of human emotion: art, philosophy, politics, music, literature are interpretations of the world that tell you more about the guy who's talking than about the world he's talking about. Secondhand views of the world made thirdhand by your interpretation of them.

Posted by Ghost of a flea at May 19, 2004 08:18 AM

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Comments

James Burke has been more of a teacher to me through "Connections" and "The Day the Universe Changed" than some of the flesh and blood teachers I have known! Seeing thos series' in school and on TVOntario (many moons ago)gave me my first window into the world of science and technology.
These shows were memorable; some were prophetic: there was one ("Connections", I think) where Burke discusses "suitcase nukes" and their effects with chilling academic detachment.

Posted by: jim at May 20, 2004 11:16 AM