By Alex Herbach Sometimes it's the words that aren't in the dictionary that say the most about our language. NorCal native Alex Herbach explores a cultural phenomenon and linguistic rite of passage. According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word “hella” does not mean anything. It does not mean “nothing” in the sense that it is a synonym for “nil,” but it does not mean … [Read more...] about Hella
Humanities
Titian and the Techies
By Allison Norman What is the boundary between art and science in the current era, if there is one at all? And what does this mean for the contemporary artist? “Art is the Tree of Life; Science is the Tree of Death” —William Blake “When machines have come, art has fled”—Paul Gauguin Art and science are generally viewed as opposing disciplines, and for good reason. … [Read more...] about Titian and the Techies
The Real Obesity Crisis
By Kathryn West “At 419 lbs, the 23-year-old stay-at-home mom was feeling good about being out of the house that day to take in the fresh air and get some exercise. That was, until a truck of young men pulled up and began harassing her. 'You fat blimp!' one yelled. 'You whale!' said another. 'You fat ass bitch!' the men shouted as they pelted her with empty soda cans and … [Read more...] about The Real Obesity Crisis
Are Journalism Careers Yesterday’s News?
By Mike Corsini The practice of journalism inevitably entails compromise. An ambiguous code of ethics and the need to bolster sinking profits can produce a newsroom environment that is relentless in its creation of news pitches but limited in their execution. Yet still, workers are drawn to the profession for the opportunities it provides for spontaneity, continued education … [Read more...] about Are Journalism Careers Yesterday’s News?
Can We Take A Joke
By Amanda DeJong During an interview shortly after the release of Monty Python’s first major production, The Quest for the Holy Grail, Eric Idle was asked, “What’s next?” He casually replied, “Jesus Christ: Lust for Glory.” Audiences throughout the English-speaking world were shocked by the statement, and considered it vulgar and tasteless; yet the resulting clamor scarcely … [Read more...] about Can We Take A Joke