Awesome infographic on consumer spending. A little bit embarrassing how much the US spends on everything.

More and more people in academia and silicone valley are taking Provigil, a prescription drug that allows for extended wakefulness without side effects associated with other stimulants. Is this ok?

It seems to me like this kind of use (or abuse depending on how you see it) is inevitable as long as people prioritize work the way they do. Unfortunately, even if only a few truly want to take the drug, anyone who wants to keep up with them will have to take the drug to not be at a disadvantage.

Animals and death. How different are we? From the NYT

I found the discussion of elephants at the end to be particularly touching.

An interesting article on how Starbucks could (and does) use random acts of kindness to make the world a better place AND improve business at the same time!

I love hearing about cases where business and being decent go together.

Would you party all night on a train? I know I wouldn't but I'm not a party person. Well either way, the SNCF in France is having its first two day party train complete with DJ (of course).