This tiny bird defies the odds, living up to nine years in the wild despite its exceptional energy demands, high body temperature, and elevated blood sugar levels that would be dangerously diabetic in humans. A ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is a perfect example of a species that has adapted to survive in spite of its fast paced, high energy lifestyle. Scientists believe that unlocking the secrets of this bird’s extraordinary biological mechanisms could provide insights into how humans could live healthier, longer lives. Read full article here
Culture
The Priest in the Arena
The phrase “man in the arena” has been popularized in recent years, but a lesser known, more dangerous archetype is the “priest in the arena”. This figure is responsible for a process called theocratic capture, where an institution surrenders to a cult demanding unaccountable authority, fueled by claims to privileged knowledge. These cults often target powerful institutions and attempt to monopolize conversations with scaremongering tactics and hostile treatment of allies. It is important to identify and stop theocratic capture before it can gain control. Read full article here
Merv
May 29, 2023
