what it means to be an american
I am, by nature, an idealist — by which I mean that I’m motivated by abstract concepts that represent a nearly-attainable state of goodness. That’s how I think about the United States: We wrote down and agreed to a set of ideas that, when applied evenly and consistently, will result in a civil society in which the citizens can have good lives and promote goodness in general. Of course, we continually fall short of these ideals, but to me, the striving is the important part. Off the top of my head, these are the ideals that define America to me –
rule of law (<–especially this one!), and specifically the constitution
equality of all people
separation of powers across governmental branches
laws govern […]
I was there as myself: Memorable TEDlines
“They never delegated understanding” — Eames Demetrios
“A new moral hunger is growing” — Katherine Fulton
“Raise your angle of view” — Philippe Starck
“I am shit” — also Philippe Starck, mid-rant about barbarians, and pronounced “sheet”
“We’re less violent than we used to be” — Steven Pinker
“Animated graphics can make a difference” — Hans Rosling”
“Simple is best” — Murray Gell-Mann
“What little boring things are you willing to do every day?” — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
“I’m scared.” — John Doerr
“lexicographically” — Erin McKean
“Things should be as simple as possible, but not simpler” — Einstein (Ok, he wasn’t there. But it was mentioned and is still relevant.)
“I was there as myself” — Maira Kalman
“You look great in that uniform” — Deborah Scranton
“Passion lives here” — Isabel […]