America, circa 430 BC

"Love of power, operating through greed and through personal ambition, was the cause of all these evils. To this must be added the violnt fanaticism which came into play once the struggle had broken out. Leaders of parties in professing to serve the public interest . . . were seeking to win the prizes for themselves. In their struggle for ascendancy nothing was barred . . . neither side had any use for conscientious motives; more interest was shown in those who could prodce attractive arguments to justify some disgraceful action. As for the citizens who held moderate views, they were destroyed by both the extreme parties . . ."
-Thucydides, History of the Peloponnesian War


To quote my brother: One of the most terrifying experiences in the word is to look into the pages of a history book, and see your own reflection.

The Volantor

Everything else aside, you have to admit that This is really freaking cool.

Ontological Value

I just got an email from someone who used 'ontological value' in a meaningful, witty, and humorous way in casual conversation.

There's really nothing more I can add to that.