Before the performance. Edgar Degas. Just because your tutu is yellow, does not mean you are superior.

Political Ideology and Evolution

Daniel Tarade June 28, 2019

The theory of evolution is held up as a litmus test for scientific literacy. But there is a fierce debate about the relative importance of the major drivers of evolution: natural selection and neutral drift. These conceptions of evolution are not apolitical but instead influenced by the organization of our own society. In turn, these theories influence how we view not only ecosystems but also human systems and economic organization.

Judging Actions Forwards and Back: Nazis, New and Old

Daniel Tarade June 7, 2019

What ought we do with the neo-nazis taking to our city streets? As much as I advocate for awareness of the material conditions that bring about conflict between different groups of working class people, we cannot merely tolerate the intolerant. Long term solutions require economic liberation and equity. In the short term, we need to defend ourselves.

The Temple of Juno in Agrigento. Caspar David Frierich.

Preservation as Propaganda? A Tale of Two Castles

Daniel Tarade May 31, 2019

Monuments act to build and maintain national identity. So it is no surprise that rebuilding monuments are inherently political actions. In rebuilding a fallen monument, like the World Trade Center, Parthenon, or Notre Dame, the values imbued in that structure are re-affirmed. It is important to remember that these values favour those in power, the very same people who are able to build monuments in the first place.

Woman Ironing. Edgar Degas. Although an increased number of career paths are available to women today, there is still work to be done.

Women in Science: A Look at the University of Toronto

Daniel Tarade May 17, 2019

Have we arrived at a post-sexism scientific enterprise? Or are there still biases working against women as they work towards a career in academia? A discussion of the continued barriers in place, with a focus on the University of Toronto, which suggests that, although discrimination is no longer codified, there is still work to be done.

A Ukrainian Canadian Prairie Tragedy. William Kurelek.

Determinism and Black Holes

Daniel Tarade April 26, 2019

Are humans determined? Some believe that quantum uncertainty or the destruction of information within a black hole violates determinism. Or that humans, capable of recursive thought, are naturally free. An exploration that advocates acceptance of determinism.