Archive of entries posted by Head Geek

“USC scientists figure out how to turn t-shirts into body armor”

Posted by on

More of science emulating science fiction: in Harry Harrison’s Stainless Steel Rat series (the second book, if I remember correctly), the protagonist is shot several times at point-blank range with a large-caliber handgun. He survives with nothing more than extreme bruising and a wound to his arm, thanks to a set of “bulletproof underwear,” which …

Continue reading ‘“USC scientists figure out how to turn t-shirts into body armor”’ »

“Enhancing the Placebo”

Posted by on

I find the placebo effect to be utterly fascinating. It’s almost certainly responsible for the successes of shamans, faith-based healers, and homeopathy. And, on the other side of the coin, the documented successful witch doctors’ curses. But it’s literally all in your head. Which means that everyone who has ever been affected by any of …

Continue reading ‘“Enhancing the Placebo”’ »

“New road made from pigsh*t in Missouri”

Posted by on

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. When life gives you lakes of pig waste, make… roads? (I used to live near Six Flags in Missouri. There’s a good chance that I’ve driven over that particular stretch of road. Which gives me a decidedly odd feeling… I’m not used to having places I’ve lived make …

Continue reading ‘“New road made from pigsh*t in Missouri”’ »