Simeon Stylites the Elder invented a whole new type of ascetic: the stylite, or pillar hermit. Ascetics were religious people who practised strict self-denial. Simeon was unparalleled in his zeal and asceticism, so much so that he was kicked out of a monastery for being too hard-core about it. In post-monastic life, he attracted crowds, which was the exact opposite of what he wanted. To escape them, he climbed on top of a pillar, where he lived, ate, and died after 37 years. Read full article here
Technology
The First Solar-Powered Car Comes at a Hot Price
The Lightyear O is a revolutionary electric car powered by the sun. Developed by a Dutch startup, the four-door sedan has over 50 square feet of solar panels on its roof and hood, generating up to 43 miles of energy a day. With production now underway in Finland, the car does come with a hefty price tag at $262,000, but the company hopes to introduce a more affordable version, the Lightyear 2, by 2025. Read full article here