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John B Medamana's avatar

Wondering if present-mindedness is just intellectual laziness (it’s harder to reflect on the past and think about future possibilities), or rooted in evolutionary forces that favored the survival of people who were focused on the present?

Nicholas Carr's avatar

Both, I'd say, and more.

Stregoni's avatar

Nowadays, bullshit literally flies at near-light speed through fiber optic cables and wireless transmissions.

Matt's avatar

Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed the piece!

Sean Palmer's avatar

Thank you for posting this. Mr Innis clearly read his Spengler...

I'm also reminded of one my favorite Cormac McCarthy quotes: "I'm pessimistic about a lot of things, but there's no reason to be miserable about it."

Nicholas Carr's avatar

Innis, Spengler, and Cormac: Now the puzzle pieces are coming together!