Albert Pittman describes himself as “just a guy who likes Chesterton.” We disagree. He is also a reader here at Mere O, which makes him unique indeed. He is proprietor of the monstrosity that is “Granny Jacks Booted Thugs,” but most importantly, he is our first essayist for “Meet the Readers.” Ritual Disclaimer: the opinions [...]
Archive for May, 2007
May 30, 2007
1
Meet the Readers: Albert Pittman on Chesterton’s Confusing and Beloved Characters
By Matthew Lee Anderson in "Meet the Readers"
May 30, 2007
0
A Culture of Debate: The Future of the Conservative Movement
By Matthew Lee Anderson in PoliticsPeter Berkewitz’s excellent essay on the state of the Conservative movement identifies a serious gap between Left and Right in America: On a variety of issues that currently divide the nation, those to the left of center seem to be converging, their ranks increasingly untroubled by debate or dissent, except on daily tactics and long-term [...]
May 29, 2007
5
Responding to Readers: Mere Devotion or Mere Orthodoxy?
By Matthew Lee Anderson in UncategorizedIt is no small sign of respect to have a blog named after you. In Mere O’s case, it is a sign of respectful concern that prompted the author of Mere Devotion to so name his blog. As he wrote recently: I understand where Mere Orthodoxy gets its name, but the name troubles me. Orthodoxy [...]
May 28, 2007
1
Quotable: Memorial Day Edition
By Matthew Lee Anderson in All Things LovelyI thought that I would honor the lost this Memorial Day by reading through a few selections on honoring those who served in battle for their nations. Below, I have included some choice selections of the various speeches and poems I read. Incidentally, the “Quotable” format is a rip-off of the inimitable Joe Carter’s’ series [...]
May 28, 2007
4
In Memoriam: Mickel Garrigus and Matthew Walrod
By Matthew Lee Anderson in All Things LovelyOn this day of remembrance, I thought I would take time out to remember two soldiers who fell in the line of duty, both of whom I knew in high school. Mickel Garrigus, a soft spoken and honorable young man was killed some months ago while serving in Iraq. While I didn’t know Mike well, [...]
May 27, 2007
1
Meet the Readers: Series Intro
By Matthew Lee Anderson in "Meet the Readers"I have recently become aware that Mere O has some of the smartest and most interesting readers around. This is, to be sure, a direct correlation to the authors’ own abilities (he said with a wry grin). That realization has prompted me to take a bold step this summer: we are, for part of the [...]
May 27, 2007
0
Responding to Readers: Pat Sikora on Setting Expectations in Discussion Groups
By Matthew Lee Anderson in Discussion LeadingThe extraordinarily entrepreneurial Pat Sikora takes on my thoughts about setting expectations in discussion groups. Regarding my point that discussion leaders should “be appropriately stern” with members who act out of line, Pat writes: However, I’m not sure I’d use the word “stern,” even with people who are acting out of line. These are the [...]
May 26, 2007
7
Proper Patriotism and the Case for Bombing Iran
By Matthew Lee Anderson in AmericaIn case you missed it, Iran’s elected leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has once again threatened to destroy Israel if they engage in war with Lebanon this summer. Oh, and his government’s police has continued to crack down on “cultural invasion” by Western powers: In a different gathering of mullahs for Friday’s prayer, Tehran’s police chief Ahmad [...]
May 25, 2007
4
500 Years of Women in Art — in 3 Minutes
By Elliot Ravenwood in All Things LovelyA lovely video slide-show has shown up on YouTube which runs through 500 years worth of paintings depicting feminine beauty. The viewing experience is quite mesmerizing, as the video’s creator melds each successive face with a fluid ease. (The classical soundtrack adds a welcome touch too–I’m a sucker for cello.) I unfortunately am far from [...]
May 25, 2007
1
Quotable: Joseph Bottum Edition
By Matthew Lee Anderson in PoliticsAndy at ThinkChristian pointed out this fascinating article by Joseph Bottum, editor of First Things, in which he argues that the death of others is the foundation for our political existence. While Andy thinks the topic is “a bit morbid,” I find myself invigorated by the opportunity to think hard about death. It is, after [...]
May 24, 2007
5
Fostering Conversations that Count: Setting Clear Expectations
By Matthew Lee Anderson in Discussion LeadingMost people, by and large, aren’t used to having discussions. They just aren’t. What passes for discussion in most workplaces, classrooms and small groups is opinining without critique. Very rarely do students actually engage each other in face-to-face conversation about a difficult idea, and even more rarely does a whole group of people attain this [...]
May 24, 2007
1
The Inaugural Mere O Readers Survey
By Matthew Lee Anderson in UncategorizedI had mentioned a while ago the possibility of putting together a survey to find out what you, the readers, like and don’t like about Mere O. Now is your time to shine: now is your hour! It will only take 15 minutes or so, which I know is a lot of valuable time for [...]
May 23, 2007
5
Brilliant Play, Brilliant Faith
By Elliot Ravenwood in Outside Articles of Interest, SportsOne of the world’s best footballers–the deadly Brazilian striker, Kaka–will attempt to lead AC Milan to victory today over a tough Liverpool squadfor the UEFA Champions League title. (You can see highlights of his role in dismantling Manchester United during the semifinal match here and a personal highlight clip here.) What few might know about [...]