Friday 28 February 2014

Learning Slowly

I recently started to revise my abstract algebra. I'm making good progress by going slowly. Each morning I advance one more step through the text book, where a step is either a new idea or a theorem, and then I enliven such humdrum activities as washing up, waiting for a bus, or peeling vegetables, by thinking about the idea of the day.

I actually cover each step three times, because I  preface taking the next step by re-reading the previous day's idea, and follow it by skimming quickly through what comes next.

So far I've got through 60 pages without a hitch.






Wednesday 26 February 2014

Getting Away with Murder

A criminal prosecution has been halted because a government official had given the accused a letter promising immunity from prosecution for terrorist crimes connected to Northern Ireland. That letter was issued after an amnesty bill presented to Parliament had been withdrawn in the face of opposition, so immunity was granted, not just without the knowledge of Parliament, but in defiance of Parliament.

The precedent is terrifying. Some future government could set up 'hit' squads to eliminate its opponents, and give all squad members letters of immunity.

I propose the impeachment of whoever authorised the sending of those letters.





Sunday 16 February 2014

Enjoying the Garden.

It seemed to be a long time since I did any gardening, so long that I'd almost forgotten there was gardening to be done, but today's dry mild sunny weather tempted me outside, and I wrought destruction with my secateurs. It was most satisfying !!