There are a few mistaken beliefs that persist for decades if not generations. Some are trivial, others consequential. Here is my modest effort to put some to rest. “The exception proves the rule.” This is simply silly and of no great moment, merely annoying. I can’t imagine a logical system in which an exception proves […]

Bozeman is remarkable for its many nonprofits devoted to environmental issues. Some, such as the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, are focused on land, water, and trails. Others are devoted to types of animals or fish, for example the Predator Conservation Alliance. In addition, several national organizations have local offices here. Each of these organizations is […]

The BP gusher fouling the Gulf of Mexico, and ultimately much more, is surely one of America’s greatest environmental disasters. Just as surely, it’s not President Obama’s fault. Rather, it’s a function of physics and probabilities. Similar although smaller events occur approximately every 20 years. Union Oil’s Santa Barbara oil spill began on January 28th, […]

As the spill in the Gulf of Mexico drags on I’ve received several emails asking me to punish BP by boycotting the purchase of its gasoline. The idea is that by reducing demand for BP’s gas, BP will see a drop in profits. I understand (and sympathize with) the angst driving this strategy, but it […]

The Kauffman Foundation of Kansas City, Missouri is the world’s largest foundation devoted to entrepreneurship. In late May, Kaufmann announced its annual Index of Entrepreneurial Activity for 2009. Montana and Oklahoma were the entrepreneurial leaders and I was surprised—why Oklahoma? I actually have a warm spot for that state, I’ve had only good experiences there—but […]