One interesting aspect about this whole process of scientific discovery is that it, like many other discoveries, is totally "non-linear": the facts of the situation lend themselves strongly against a logical induction of causes and effects, and no aspect so far seems to have proven to be a "golden link" that magically ties everything together ( Read more... )

On Brazil ( Read more... )

The situation in China, at the turn of the 20th century: incompetent central government + corruption + jackasses worth of foreign powers + severe natural disasters (flooding AND drought) = perfect storm of civilian discontent ( Read more... )

I really can't say much more than I've already said ( Read more... )

"As throughout history when intervals of above-average rainfall have allowed agriculture to expand beyond the ecological boundaries of its long-term sustainability ( Read more... )

Common themes I've seen so far ( Read more... )

Summary: It seems that China's Qing government was far less malicious than Lytton. It's just that there seemed to be a lack of communication combined with copious amounts of corruption at various levels of government, along with lack of sufficient infrastructure, and a dislike of dealing with aid from foreign powers. But at least there were some ( Read more... )

Just finished Chapter 1.

I think I've seldom read about circumstances this bad.

And DANG, LYTTON IS A F***ING A**HOLE.He said he was an advocate of free-market ideals, right? At the very least, even if he did nothing officially, he could have let private individuals set up charitable aid ( Read more... )

Indeeed, the last third of the nineteenth century, like the last third of the twentieth, represents an exceptional intensification of El Niño activity relative to the centuries-long mean.

I immediately wondered, global warming?Re: Drought and Famine ( Read more... )

For those of you who didn't come here from that Google Groups page and are wondering why I'm doing this: Yes, it's (kinda) required reading for school.

Anyway, a few more remarks.

Page 9: "They died in the golden age of Liberal Capitalism; indeed, many were murdered, as we shall see, by the theological application of the sacred principles of ( Read more... )