Words of Wisdom — December 10, 2013

The Man Who Would Be King

“A man can never have too much red wine, too many books, or too much ammunition.” ― Rudyard Kipling (born on this date in 1865)

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A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

“A man can never have too much red wine, too many books, or too much ammunition.”
― Rudyard Kipling (born on this date in 1865)

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

An older man with white hair and a suit receives a document from another man in a robe during an event, as several people look on in the background. In the age of viral misquotes, capturing such moments accurately becomes ever more crucial.

High Culture

Einstein didn’t say that: How viral misquotes evolve and replicate

From Einstein to Twain, Garson O’Toole investigates the truth behind your favorite — and often misattributed — quotes.

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Neuropsych

A vaccine for depression

Ketamine’s remarkable effect bolsters a new theory of mental illness.

The Past

How the ancient Greeks viewed pederasty and homosexuality

In many city-states, it was perfectly acceptable for older men to have sexual relationships with young boys.

The Well

Atheism is not as rare or as rational as you think

Many atheists think of themselves as intellectually gifted individuals, guiding humanity on the path of reason. Scientific data shows otherwise.

The Past

The enigmatic life of Edward Thatch, the legendary pirate known as Blackbeard

Many first-hand accounts from the golden age of piracy were grossly embellished, meaning it’s extremely difficult to separate Blackbeard the legend from Edward Thatch the person.

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Words of Wisdom

The Inventor’s Reward

“I am not disposed to complain that I have planted and others have gathered the fruits.”- Charles Goodyear (born on this date in 1800)