After thinking about this a little, I conclude that it is important for me to stay somewhat aware of what's going on in the world and the daily news, from whatever source one gets it, is one quick way. Also, if one wants to have a better perspective, it helps to get something from a non-USA source and to keep in mind that any incident can be a Gulf of Tomkin incident.

It's also important to realize that anything really big and important is generally not in the news -- and to have an ear and eye for that as well. By really big and important I mean real environmental impact - the kinds of things Gore looked at in his movie. I also mean paradigm shifts and deep understanding, observations and conclusions that don't fit the soundbite formats.

Swartz makes two arguments. One is that whatever happens "doesn't involve me." The other is that following the news might actually be unhealthy. While I agree with his latter point - I think we are involved to some extent and our awareness might inform certain behaviours - or, if nothing else, at least make us more grateful and, I hope, more compassionate.

Everything I just said is arguable. insomniasexx