The Heroism of Daryl Davis, Collector of Robes

By Rick Hutchins To those who took part in the social revolution of nearly half a century ago, the 21st century was expected to be a time of Utopian ideals. Instead, the world has entered a Dark Age of growing extremism, in which hate-mongering and race-baiting have replaced efforts to promote positive change. Instead of … Continue reading The Heroism of Daryl Davis, Collector of Robes

Heroism as an Emergent Property

© 2013 Rick Hutchins It seems like it should be very simple-– the definition of heroism. And yet, as we’ve seen, any attempts to delineate a definitive set of properties or criteria result in debate, disagreement and dissatisfaction. The more we try to pin down the concept, the more amorphous it seems. This is because … Continue reading Heroism as an Emergent Property

Jackie Ormes: Portrait of the Artist as a Hero

By Rick Hutchins Throughout history, societies have segregated their people into clans and classes by the most arbitrary criteria. Modern ideas of egalitarianism and pluralism have run a hard road to outdistance the inertia of ancient ideas and biological instincts. Such weary travelers as find themselves at a new milestone along that interminable road are … Continue reading Jackie Ormes: Portrait of the Artist as a Hero

Chris Hadfield: Rock Star and Hero From Outer Space

By Rick Hutchins There’s a first time for everything. The milestones that mark human history can be very illuminating and enlightening, giving us insight into the essential nature of humanity. The first telescope; the first rocket flight; the first satellite; the first man in space; the first expedition to the Moon. These are the events … Continue reading Chris Hadfield: Rock Star and Hero From Outer Space