Max Meyer Blog I'm Max Meyer, and this is my blog. I write about life, politics, books, and my farm in Iowa.
America's Peacetime Conundrum 569 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23 🏥 Health Politics Mental health Legislation Statistics In 2022, there were no US soldier combat deaths but over 300 soldier suicides. The number of veteran suicides has been consistently higher than the civilian rate, with rates increasing over time. Efforts have been made to address veteran suicide, including anti-suicide legislation and national strategies, but the impact is still being observed.
The State of Things in Coffee Shop America 609 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23 🍲 Food & Drink Community Engagement Coffee shops in America reflect the country's current state of change, facing challenges like inflation and racial tensions. Small coffee businesses face unique struggles, such as closures, employee disputes, and safety concerns. Regional coffee shop cultures and community support play a significant role in the success and revival of local coffee businesses.
Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze? 275 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23 🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Rights DEI A question posed by a Dean highlighted the clash between free speech and feelings of students. The American legal system is based on due process, not outcome-oriented considerations. There is a shift in law schools towards prioritizing outcomes over rights, potentially leading to a legal free-for-all.
Book Notes: Seapower States 98 implied HN points • 22 Apr 22 Seapower States demonstrates how states can consciously shape their identity towards a specific goal. The book compares the strengths and weaknesses of seapower states against continental empires. Maintaining elite engagement in the founding values of a society is crucial for its success.
President Democracy Visits Stanford, Demands Censorship 98 implied HN points • 22 Apr 22 Former President Obama calls for cracking down on internet speech to protect 'democracy' Obama's speech highlights the issue of political censorship and labeling of information online The speech raises concerns about the integration of censorship with the Democratic electoral strategy
Book Notes: Oceans of Grain 0 implied HN points • 16 Apr 22 Historical significance of grain trade in Russia and America Impact of wheat cultivation on slavery and capitalism in America Differentiating between 'robber barons' and 'boulevard barons' in American history