Brooks describes a fascinating essay on the role of sports in diffusing certain ethics and morals to a society.

…American sport teaches that effort leads to
victory, a useful lesson in a work-oriented society. Sport also helps
Americans navigate the tension between team loyalty and individual
glory…. Gillespie appreciates the way sports culture has influenced American
students. It discourages whining, and rewards self-discipline. It
teaches self-control and its own form of justice, which has a more
powerful effect than anything taught in the classroom… But, he argues, college sports have become too Romanized.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
gets a glowing, review from the Times. Just put in an order through Amazon.

Model Cars. Wow!

The New York Times talks about bloggers tweeting about Unhappy Hipsters. (via mattyglesias)

APSA's Teaching and Learning conference is going on this weekend. In an uncharacteristic burst of technological advancement, they've hooked up the conference to the Intertubes. Wahoo. I'm going to check out Rogers Smith tomorrow. #geek