Critical Mass

Critical Mass explores intersections of science, culture, academia, and public policy, with a focus on reason, human rights, and the defense of scientific integrity against ideological incursions. It features personal experiences, tributes to intellectual figures, critiques of policy impacts on science and education, and discussions on philosophical and religious perspectives.

Science and Ideology Human Rights in Academia Public Policy and Education Religious and Philosophical Perspectives Impact of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Healthcare Policy Climate Change Media and Journalism Cultural and Community Issues

The hottest Substack posts of Critical Mass

And their main takeaways

PEI Blues

26 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Government spending Diversity
  1. There is a crisis in medical care in PEI, impacting local communities and the nation, while attention and resources are directed towards new anti-racism initiatives.
  2. Shortage of doctors in PEI, with long wait times for assignment of family doctors, leading to challenges in accessing urgent medical care.
  3. Government focus on anti-racism initiatives may not address essential issues like the shortage of ICU doctors, which are crucial for immediate healthcare needs in the region.

Remembering Christopher Hitchens

49 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Tribute
  1. It has been 12 years since Christopher Hitchens passed away.
  2. Tribute to Christopher Hitchens included talks by Stephen Fry, Martin Amis, Salman Rushdie, and others.
  3. Christopher Hitchens was known for his love of science, skepticism, and doubt.

(Ad-free Video). A Conversation with Irwin Shapiro: Scientist Extraordinaire from the Earth to the Stars, and at 94, still going strong.

8 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🔬 Science Physics Biology Research
  1. Irwin Shapiro made a significant discovery related to General Relativity known as the Shapiro Effect, which became the 4th test of the theory.
  2. Despite his age of 94, Irwin Shapiro continues to teach, conduct research, and play tennis, showing remarkable dedication and passion for his work.
  3. Irwin Shapiro is praised for not only his scientific contributions but also his kind and encouraging nature, making him a respected and admired figure in the scientific community.

PEI redux: The value of culture, and a culture of value.

16 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Community Arts Identity Diversity
  1. Moving to PEI during the Covid pandemic provided a sense of community and transparency in governance that was lacking elsewhere, making it an appealing place to live.
  2. PEI boasts a rich artistic and musical culture, with an abundance of talent celebrated throughout the island, creating a vibrant arts scene.
  3. The population of PEI is growing rapidly, embracing diversity and celebrating different cultures, fostering a sense of unity among its people.

Live Critical Mass Interactive Zoom Q&A: March 3rd @ 11 AM Pacific Time

8 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🚌 Education Science
  1. Join a live Critical Mass interactive Zoom Q&A on March 3rd at 11 AM Pacific Time hosted by Lawrence M. Krauss.
  2. The event will cover topics like previous Critical Mass posts, upcoming events, podcast episodes, books, and general science questions.
  3. Paid subscribers can access the event and get a 7-day free trial to read the full post archives.
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(Ad-free video) A Dialogue with Label-Defying Journalist Jonathan Kay

6 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Journalism Writing Politics Media Investigative Journalism
  1. Jonathan Kay's diverse background in engineering and law, along with his writing across the political spectrum, makes his work intriguing and non-ideological.
  2. Kay's investigative piece on a false sex-ring claim at a university sheds light on how false news can spread and the role of media in such situations.
  3. The unique career path of Jonathan Kay, from a tax lawyer to becoming a journalist, contributes to his fresh perspective on journalism and news reporting.

The Human Side of Exclusion in the Name of Diversity...

27 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diversity Discrimination Injustice STEM Academia
  1. The personal impact of exclusion in the name of diversity at universities and scientific institutions can be powerful.
  2. Individuals may experience demoralization and setbacks in their career due to discriminatory practices.
  3. Senior and respected scientists should speak out against demoralizing bigotry and discrimination in the field of science.

The Ideological Subversion of Biology

40 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🔬 Science Biology Ideology Evolution Gender Race
  1. Biology is facing threats from political ideologies that limit research areas and scientific communication.
  2. The article dispels myths about biology, sex, gender, race, and indigenous knowledge.
  3. Scientists need to speak out against ideological influences in science to maintain its integrity and progress.

In Praise of Charles Darwin

18 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
📚 Literature Books Writing Science
  1. The Voyage of the Beagle opened the author's eyes to a different side of Charles Darwin.
  2. Charles Darwin was not only a great scientist, but also a brilliant writer.
  3. Reading Darwin's works can provide valuable insights and appreciation for his storytelling.

Foreword: Lost in Math

20 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🔬 Science Physics Mathematics
  1. Science is driven by careful observations and making predictions.
  2. In physics, the tension between truth and beauty can lead to debates and different perspectives.
  3. Evaluating theories in physics should prioritize empirical data over mathematical elegance.