"The Prime Directive"

Since I had a false start the first time I would like to dive in again with a restatement of purpose, the "prime directive,"as it were. As an avid reader, and former student of history, I want to maintain my reputation as a well-informed, intellectual, cultured citizen, and know that the only way to do so is through constant effort and continued reading. This is no mean feat, and requires support and feedback in order to be done well. I want a space where history and literature can be freely discussed, within a broad scope of cultural experience. Put in less-buzzwordy terms, I like to call this the "Metaphysics of Star Trek" approach.

I want this to be a public effort--in part because it will make me feel accountable to someone, and also because I cherish the hope that there maybe someone else out there who wants to discuss the same things I am interested in. I welcome comments, feedback, and emails, regardless of opinion, provided that they are in the spirit of civil and rational discourse. It is expected that, as in all reputable work, sources are cited and analysis is attributed correctly. Appropriate use of intellectual property is everyone's responsibility, yo.

I aim to focus on one area every couple of months, sort of like school but following my fancy to decide on the subject matter. I will be open to suggestion, and expect that all the reading and discussion will end up doing much of the deciding for me. I will also keep a list of possible topics for the future, as well as ones that have been done.

This is an ambitious mission, but I hope that within the first few months the kinks will be worked out and we will all have a format that works.

Cheers, and happy reading!