Years ago when I didn't know any better, I was a teacher--adult education.  As an ice breaker I would open the first session by saying:  "The first thing I want you all to realize is that none of you know half as much as you think you do."  That usually got their attention and made the ones who thought they were really smart upset with me.

But it is true because our brain is so efficient (particularly the left brain).  It wants to do everything in a hurry and save us a lot of time. Our short term memory takes in information, noting the characteristics of the stimuli, duly recording it and then sending it to our long-term memory, our database, where it is stored for later retrieval.  What often happens is that the left brain interrupts the short term processing:  "hurry up, hurry up, you've already got all you need to know."

Short term memory says "OK" and off the data goes to our library.  But often what is stored is little more than very high level data that is almost worthless.  I call this a stereotype--a one dimensional snapshot of the information.  Much of our long term memories are filled with this kind of junk.

A test follows if you care to take it:

   Read More »

I can remember growing up being mezmerized by the political process. In the days of five tv channels, the election returns would always take up at least 3. The school I attended was also the closest polling place, and I remember the excitement and urgency I felt walking into the school's lobby. There were more adults than children on the property and a seriousness about the whole event was pressed upon me. The mandatory silence was almost stiffening and even the grown-ups speaking in hushed tones seemed official. The line of people was so long - out and around the school, all of there waiting patiently to cast their ballot. The whole process of going to the desk, getting the ballot, going into the booth and casting your vote made a very distinct impression on my young mind. I remember sitting at home, listening to the returns. I expressed great disapointment when a local levy didn't pass because my parents were. When I learned that it meant a close friend of mine no longer had a bus to school, the reality of the election reached home. I was only 7 at the time.
I learned everything I could about the political process, and I was more excited about turning 18 so that I could vote more than any other birthday. On the morning of my 18th birthday, I registered to vote. It was one of the proudest days I could think of up to that point. It's importance was completely lost on most of my peers, who were much more enthralled with thoughts of tobacco and porn shops than voting districts.
I've voted in every single election that I was eligible to vote in. That's no accomplishment by any means - it is our civic duty and our right, a right too hardly fought for to be given up so easily. It sickens me when people say "but my vote won't make a difference". Elections are won (by the unworthy) and lost (by the deserving) because of these statements.
Every person, in every state, who is of age and legally able can and SHOULD vote. It's baffling not to!!!

~Chandra