Mastering RAW Photo Editing: Transform Your Vacation Memories
Learn professional RAW photo editing techniques to elevate your vacation photos. Discover tips for exposure, color correction, and preserving memories.
Are you looking to take your vacation photos from ordinary to extraordinary? In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of editing RAW photos to create stunning visual memories of your travels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, these tips and techniques will help you elevate your photo editing skills.
Why Create a Vacation Video?
While smartphone galleries are convenient, they often fail to capture the essence of your trip. A well-crafted video offers several advantages:
It provides a more immersive experience than scrolling through photos
You can add music to enhance the mood and atmosphere
Videos are easily shareable with friends and family
They offer a creative way to relive your travel memories
Why Edit RAW Photos?
RAW files contain all the data captured by your camera's sensor, giving you maximum flexibility when editing. Unlike JPEGs, RAW files allow you to make significant adjustments without losing image quality. This is especially important for vacation photos, where you want to capture the essence and beauty of your experiences.
Essential RAW Editing Techniques
1. Adjusting Exposure and Contrast
Start by fine-tuning the overall brightness and contrast of your image. This step helps to bring out details in both shadows and highlights, creating a more balanced and visually appealing photo.
2. Color Correction with Curves
Use the curves tool to adjust individual color channels, enhancing the natural colors of your scene. This technique can help capture the vibrant hues of a sunset or the rich tones of a landscape.
3. Cropping for Better Composition
Sometimes, a slight crop can dramatically improve your photo's composition. Remove distracting elements at the edges of the frame to draw more attention to your main subject.
4. Removing Unwanted Elements
Learn to use inpainting and healing tools to remove unwanted objects from your photos. This could be anything from a stray trash can to a distracting sign in the background.
5. Noise Reduction for Cleaner Images
Apply noise reduction to minimize graininess, especially in low-light photos. This step can significantly improve the overall quality of your images.
The Importance of Preserving Memories
Editing your vacation photos isn't just about creating beautiful images; it's about preserving and enhancing your memories. Here's why this process is so valuable:
Personal Identity: Curated memories help define who you are and your life experiences.
Emotional Well-being: Revisiting positive memories can bring joy and comfort.
Learning and Growth: Reflecting on past experiences aids in personal development.
Social Connection: Sharing memories strengthens relationships with travel companions.
Cognitive Health: Engaging with memories keeps your mind sharp and may help delay cognitive decline.
Putting It All Together: A Step-by-Step Example
Let's walk through the editing process of a street scene photo:
Start by adjusting the overall exposure and contrast to bring out details in the shadows and highlights.
Use the curves tool to enhance the natural colors of the scene, making it more vibrant and true to life.
Crop the image to remove distracting elements at the edges, focusing on the main subject.
Apply inpainting or healing tools to remove any unwanted objects, like stray litter or signs.
Finally, add a touch of noise reduction to clean up any graininess in the image.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Photography
By mastering these RAW editing techniques, you'll be able to transform your vacation snapshots into stunning visual memories. Not only will you create beautiful images, but you'll also be preserving and enhancing your travel experiences in a meaningful way.
Remember, the goal isn't just to create picture-perfect photos, but to capture the essence of your journey and the emotions tied to those moments. So grab your RAW files, fire up your editing software, and start bringing your travel memories to life!
Check our photo from the video above
Ready to dive deeper?
Check out our video tutorial above for a hands-on demonstration of these techniques. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more practical tips on improving your life, one small step at a time!
Further Reading
Understanding RAW vs. JPEG - Digital Photography School
Mastering Vacation Photo Organization - Omni-Versal
This blog was generated with the help of AI.
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Mastering Vacation Photo Organization: From Smartphone to Cinematic Memories
Learn how to transform your vacation photos into captivating videos and organized collections. Our step-by-step guide helps you create lasting, shareable memories from your travels.
Have you ever returned from a fantastic vacation only to find your photos languishing forgotten on your phone? In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of transforming those digital memories into a captivating video that you'll cherish for years to come.
Why Create a Vacation Video?
While smartphone galleries are convenient, they often fail to capture the essence of your trip. A well-crafted video offers several advantages:
It provides a more immersive experience than scrolling through photos
You can add music to enhance the mood and atmosphere
Videos are easily shareable with friends and family
They offer a creative way to relive your travel memories
Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Your Vacation Photos
1. Gather Your Photos
Start by collecting all your vacation photos in one place. This may include:
Smartphone photos
Pictures from your "fancy" camera (if applicable)
Any shared photos from travel companions
2. Create a Folder Structure
Organize your photos into a logical folder structure. For example:
Main folder: Trip name and year
Subfolders: One for each day or location visited
3. Sort and Categorize
Go through your photos and sort them into the appropriate folders. Tips for efficient sorting:
Use the "click and drag" method to quickly move multiple photos
Pay attention to timestamps to ensure photos are in the correct day folder
Don't be afraid to create additional subfolders for specific events or locations
4. Manage Duplicates and Incorrect Dates
As you sort, keep an eye out for:
Duplicate photos: Delete extras to save space
Incorrectly dated photos: Move them to the right folder based on your itinerary
Taking Your Organization to the Next Level
Editing RAW Files
If you used a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you may have RAW files to work with:
Review and select the best RAW images
Edit these photos to enhance their quality
Export edited photos to include in your video project
Creating a Photo Book
In addition to your video, consider creating a physical photo book:
It's a tangible way to showcase your memories
Many services offer user-friendly design tools
Options range from budget-friendly (e.g., Costco, Walgreens) to high-end professional services
Bringing It All Together: Creating Your Vacation Video
With your photos organized, you're ready to start your video project:
Choose your favorite photos and video clips
Select background music that fits the mood of your trip
Use video editing software to combine your media
Add transitions, text, and other effects to enhance your story
Conclusion: Preserving Your Travel Memories
By following this process, you'll transform your vacation photos from forgotten digital files into a cherished keepsake. Whether you're sharing your adventures with loved ones or simply reliving the memories yourself, a well-organized photo collection and engaging video will help you treasure your travels for years to come.
Remember, the key is to start the organization process soon after your trip while the memories are still fresh. Happy travels and happy organizing!
Further Reading
NCAA Research - Estimated probability of competing in professional athletics: https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2015/3/2/estimated-probability-of-competing-in-professional-athletics.aspx
Americans for the Arts - Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 Report: https://www.americansforthearts.org/by-program/reports-and-data/research-studies-publications/arts-economic-prosperity-5
National Endowment for the Arts - Arts Data Profile on Artists and Other Cultural Workers: https://www.arts.gov/impact/research/arts-data-profile-series/adp-30
Other Omniversity Blog posts
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Sports vs. Fine Arts: Which Path Leads to Better Financial Success?
Explore the financial prospects of pursuing sports versus fine arts careers. Learn about the odds of success, potential earnings, and long-term stability in both fields.
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Sports vs. Fine Arts: Which Path Leads to Better Financial Success?
Have you ever wondered if you should focus on sports or fine arts? Let's talk about what we didn't learn in school about these career paths. We'll also discuss how to improve your life using kaizen, a Japanese idea about getting better little by little.
What is Kaizen?
Kaizen means "improvement" in Japanese. It's about making small changes every day to get better over time. Instead of trying to change everything at once, you focus on improving just 1% each day. These small changes add up to big results over time!
Sports vs. Fine Arts: The Career Funnel
Let's look at how many people make it to the top in sports and fine arts:
Sports Career Funnel:
Youth sports: About 60 million kids
High school sports: 7.9 million students
College sports: 495,000 students
Professional sports: Only 1.6% of college athletes make it
Professional sports: Only 132 out of every 1 million kids who start in youth sports make it to the pros
Fine Arts Career Funnel:
Youth in arts: Millions of kids
High school arts: 4.4 million students
College arts: 1.7 million students
Professional artists: Less than 10% work full-time in their field
Acting: Only about 0.04% of actors are famous enough to be recognized
Music: Less than 0.000002% of musicians will have a platinum record
These examples show that reaching the very top of any competitive field is extremely rare, whether in sports, arts, or business.
Making Money in Sports vs. Fine Arts
While top athletes can make a lot of money, most don't. Fine arts careers might offer more chances to earn money, even if you're not famous. Here's why:
More ways to use your skills (teaching, freelancing, selling art)
Longer career span (you can be an artist at any age)
Ability to write off expenses for taxes
Conclusion: Both Paths Have Value
Whether you choose sports or fine arts, remember:
Both can teach you important life skills
It's okay to try both and see what you like best
Use kaizen to keep improving, no matter what you choose
Consider how you can turn your passion into a career or side job
Remember, success isn't just about making it to the top. It's about enjoying what you do and always trying to get better. Use kaizen to improve a little each day, and you'll be amazed at how far you can go!
Further Reading
NCAA Research - Estimated probability of competing in professional athletics: https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2015/3/2/estimated-probability-of-competing-in-professional-athletics.aspx
Americans for the Arts - Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 Report: https://www.americansforthearts.org/by-program/reports-and-data/research-studies-publications/arts-economic-prosperity-5
National Endowment for the Arts - Arts Data Profile on Artists and Other Cultural Workers: https://www.arts.gov/impact/research/arts-data-profile-series/adp-30
Other Omniversity Blog posts
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The Substance - Ride Review
Dive into our in-depth review of "The Substance," exploring themes of self-acceptance, aging, and relationships. Get insights on this must-watch film's clever writing and standout performances.
Dive into our in-depth review of "The Substance," exploring themes of self-acceptance, aging, and relationships. Get insights on this must-watch film's clever writing and standout performances.
The Substance - Ride Review
Hey there, movie lovers! We just caught a screening of "The Substance.” As always, our Ride Review brings you our immediate reactions straight from the car ride home. Let's dive into the themes and elements that stood out to us.
Self-Acceptance and Aging
One of the main themes in "The Substance" is the struggle with self-acceptance, especially as we age. The movie does a great job of showing how people, particularly women, can get caught up in societal expectations about appearance and behavior. It was eye-opening to see how much the main character worried about things that, in reality, probably didn't matter much to others.
Being "In Your Head"
We found it really relatable how the movie portrayed the main character getting stuck in her own thoughts. It's something many of us can identify with - overthinking situations and creating problems that might not actually exist. The film reminds us that often, we're our own worst critics, and others aren't nearly as focused on our perceived flaws as we are.
Relationships and Missed Connections
Another interesting aspect of the movie was its take on relationships and missed opportunities. It showed how being too caught up in our insecurities can lead to missing out on potentially great connections. The scene where the main character stands up her date because of her own internal struggles was particularly powerful.
Male vs. Female Perspectives
We had an interesting discussion about how the movie highlighted differences in male and female perspectives, especially regarding appearance. It was eye-opening to realize how much effort women might put into details that men might not even notice. This part of the film sparked a great conversation between us about our own experiences and assumptions.
Humor and Serious Themes
While tackling some heavy topics, "The Substance" managed to keep things light with well-placed humor. The balance between funny moments and more serious themes kept the movie engaging and prevented it from feeling too heavy.
Final Thoughts
Overall, we found "The Substance" to be a thought-provoking and entertaining film. It's definitely for mature audiences due to some adult content, but it offers valuable insights into self-acceptance, relationships, and the human experience. The clever writing, strong performances, and interesting special effects all contribute to making this a movie worth watching.
We're still digesting some of the deeper messages, which is always a sign of a good film. We'd love to hear your thoughts if you've seen it! Drop a comment below and let's keep the conversation going.
Until next time, happy watching!
Blog produced with help of AI
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Ride Reviews
Never Let Go - Ride Review
Dive into our review of "Never Let Go," a psychological horror film that explores family dynamics and cultural traditions. We discuss the movie's immersive experience, intriguing plot, and thought-provoking themes. Find out why this mind-bending thriller is a must-see for horror enthusiasts.
Dive into our review of "Never Let Go," a psychological horror film that explores family dynamics and cultural traditions. We discuss the movie's immersive experience, intriguing plot, and thought-provoking themes. Find out why this mind-bending thriller is a must-see for horror enthusiasts.
Never Let Go - Ride Review
Hey there, movie fans! We just got back from watching "Never Let Go" at the theater, and we're excited to share our thoughts with you in this Ride Review.
This movie is about a family that goes on a vacation, but things get super creepy when they meet some strange people. The main character, a family, ends up getting touched by something evil, and it's pretty gross. There's this slimy thing that looks like a giant booger, and it crawls into his mouth. Yuck!
The movie does a great job of making you feel uneasy. There are lots of scenes that will make you jump or feel scared. The best part is the sound - it's so good that we think you should definitely see this movie in the theater to get the full experience.
One thing we really liked was how the movie makes you think about family stuff. There's this weird box in the ground that the family uses to appreciate their house and what they have. It's kind of like when your parents tell you to be grateful for what you've got.
The ending of the movie is super trippy. It makes you wonder if what you saw was real or just a dream. It reminded us of that episode of The Simpsons where Lisa sees things from different perspectives. It's the kind of movie that makes your brain hurt a little, but in a good way! We had a lot of fun watching "Never Let Go.”
So, should you go see it? We say yes! It's a new movie that just came out, and even though we've told you some stuff about it, there's still a lot to experience. The cool visuals and awesome music make it worth checking out on the big screen.
Have you seen "Never Let Go" yet? If you have, let us know what you thought in the comments. And if you haven't, grab some friends and go watch it - just maybe leave a light on when you get home!
That's our Ride Review for "Never Let Go." Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more movie reviews straight from the car ride home!
Honesty vs Truth: Understanding the Difference
Honesty and truth: two words we often use interchangeably. But are they really the same? Discover the surprising differences and how understanding them can transform your relationships and decision-making. Prepare to challenge your assumptions in this eye-opening exploration.
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Honesty vs Truth: Understanding the Difference
Infographic depicting the difference between honesty and truth
In our latest video, we delve into the nuanced distinction between honesty and truth, two concepts that are often used interchangeably but carry significant differences. This exploration is crucial for effective communication and maintaining healthy relationships in both personal and professional spheres.
Honesty: A Personal Perspective
Honesty is fundamentally about intention and personal belief. When we're honest, we're expressing what we genuinely believe to be true based on our knowledge and experiences. It's a subjective stance that reflects our individual understanding of a situation. For instance, when someone says, "I'm giving you my honest opinion," they're sharing their personal viewpoint, which may or may not align with objective reality.
Truth: An Objective Reality
Truth, on the other hand, is about objective reality. It's what actually is, regardless of personal beliefs or opinions. Truth is verifiable and remains constant, independent of individual perspectives. In scientific terms, truth is what can be proven through empirical evidence and rigorous testing.
The Intersection and Divergence
While honesty and truth can align, they don't always do so. A person can be completely honest while being factually incorrect. This discrepancy often leads to misunderstandings and conflicts, especially in areas like politics, where personal opinions and objective facts frequently clash.
Implications in Daily Life
Understanding this difference is crucial in various aspects of life:
Communication: Recognizing when someone is sharing their honest opinion versus stating a fact can improve understanding and reduce conflicts.
Decision Making: In critical situations, distinguishing between honest opinions and verifiable truths can lead to better-informed choices.
Media Literacy: In an era of information overload, discerning between honest reporting and factual accuracy is essential.
Personal Growth: Acknowledging that our honest beliefs might not always align with truth allows for personal development and learning.
Navigating the Complexity
In our increasingly complex world, it's important to:
Be clear about whether you're sharing an opinion or a fact.
Remain open to new information that might challenge your honest beliefs.
Seek verification for important information, especially when making crucial decisions.
Practice empathy when others' honest opinions differ from what you know to be true.
Conclusion
The distinction between honesty and truth is not just a matter of semantics; it's a fundamental aspect of how we perceive and interact with the world around us. By being mindful of this difference, we can foster better understanding, make more informed decisions, and navigate the complexities of human communication more effectively.
Remember, while honesty is commendable, the pursuit of truth through verification and openness to new information is equally important. In our journey through life, balancing these two concepts can lead to more meaningful interactions and a clearer understanding of our world.
Further reading on Truth and Honesty
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Benefits Enrollment. What does this mean?
Benefits enrollment can be complex, involving concepts like sick day banks and choices between FSA and HSA accounts. Understanding the full cost of benefits, which can exceed $1,000 per month, is crucial. These benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, and retirement contributions. While the cost may seem high, these benefits provide essential protection and can result in significant long-term savings.
Check out our experience…
Understanding Benefits Enrollment: A Comprehensive Guide
Benefits enrollment can be a confusing process for many employees. In this blog post, we'll break down some key aspects of benefits enrollment, focusing on the often misunderstood concept of sick day banks and the differences between FSA and HSA accounts.
The Sick Day Bank: Explained
One of the more complex aspects of benefits is the sick day bank. Here's how it typically works:
Employees are allocated a certain number of paid time off (PTO) days per year.
Employees can choose to donate one of these days to a collective "bank".
This bank accumulates days from all participating employees across the organization.
If an employee experiences a catastrophic illness and exhausts their own PTO, they can draw from this bank.
While the concept might seem strange, it's a form of collective insurance that can provide extended paid leave for those facing severe health issues.
FSA vs HSA: Key Differences
When it comes to health savings, there are two primary options: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA). Here are some key differences:
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
"Use it or lose it" - Funds typically don't roll over year to year
Contribution limits are set annually by the IRS
Can be used for a variety of medical expenses
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Funds roll over year to year
Often comes with higher deductible health plans
Can be used as an investment vehicle for retirement
When choosing between an FSA and HSA, consider your health needs and financial goals. An HSA can be a powerful tool for long-term savings, while an FSA might be better for those who can accurately predict their yearly medical expenses.
The True Cost of Benefits
It's important to understand the full cost of your benefits package. Many employees are surprised to learn that their total benefits cost can exceed $1,000 per month. This often includes:
Health insurance premiums
Dental and vision coverage
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Retirement contributions
While this may seem high, remember that these benefits provide crucial protection and can save you significant money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your benefits package is crucial for making informed decisions about your health and finances. Don't be afraid to ask questions during your enrollment period, and consider consulting with a financial advisor to optimize your choices.
Remember, benefits are a significant part of your overall compensation package. Taking the time to understand and utilize them fully can have a substantial impact on your financial well-being.
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Tipping. How much is too much?
Tipping. How much is too much?
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ChatGPT Pros and Cons
Tipping is a hot topic with varying opinions. Here’s a rundown of the main points for and against tipping:
Pros of Tipping:
**Supplemental Income:** Tipping provides a significant source of income for workers in service industries where base wages are often low, such as restaurants, salons, and taxis.
**Incentive for Better Service:** It can motivate employees to provide a higher quality of service, as they directly benefit from positive customer interactions.
**Acknowledgment of Good Service:** Tipping offers a way for customers to show appreciation for excellent service, creating a direct feedback loop.
**Flexibility:** It allows customers to adjust their payment based on their satisfaction with the service, potentially influencing better experiences in the future.
**Cultural Norm:** In some countries, tipping has become a deeply ingrained social practice, and removing it could create confusion or resistance.
Cons of Tipping:
**Unstable Income:** Relying on tips can lead to financial instability for workers, especially in areas where tipping culture varies or when customer flow is unpredictable.
**Wage Gaps:** Tipping can contribute to inequality, as workers' income may heavily depend on customer generosity, sometimes influenced by biases regarding race, gender, or attractiveness.
**Unfair Burden on Customers:** Critics argue that tipping shifts the responsibility of fair compensation to customers instead of employers, who should be paying livable wages.
**Obligation Rather than Gratitude:** Many feel pressured to tip, transforming what was meant to be a reward for good service into a mandatory charge, regardless of service quality.
**Lack of Standardization:** There is confusion about when and how much to tip, especially in industries where tipping practices are unclear (e.g., take-out orders, coffee shops).
**Workplace Issues:** Relying on tips can lead to workplace problems like wage theft (tip pooling) or management abusing tip-based payment systems.
This debate often circles back to the idea of fair wages versus tipping as a reward system, and opinions on tipping can vary widely based on cultural norms, industry practices, and individual beliefs.
Do you have statistics on how much money Americans spend on tips?
Based on general data available from financial articles:
On average, Americans tend to spend around $50 to $100 per month on tips, which adds up to approximately $600 to $1,200 per year. This can vary depending on factors such as dining habits, region, and income levels.
When including tips in various service sectors like restaurants, deliveries, salons, and ride-sharing, the annual spending on tips can be significant. Some reports suggest that the average household's total tipping amount could go even higher, especially for those who frequently use services that rely on tips.
For the most accurate and up-to-date statistics, financial news sites and consumer expenditure reports often provide detailed analyses of tipping trends.
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Solar Panels. Yay or Nay?
Solar Panels. Yay or Nay? We had them at our old house, will we get them at our new house?
Early College, become a grown-up…faster?
Electoral College explained to you like you're in 5th grade, but with grown-up situation. You will understand it better and possibly change your mind about it.
Check out the video explanation of what this meant to me and how I interpreted this information.
Here are the top 3 pros and cons for early college/dual credit programs:
Pros:
Cost Savings:
Pro: Students can earn college credits while still in high school, potentially reducing the time and cost of earning a college degree. Many programs are offered at a reduced tuition rate or even for free.
Academic Advancement:
Pro: Students can get a head start on their college education, allowing them to graduate early or take more advanced courses sooner. This can make them more competitive in the college admissions process and prepare them better for rigorous college-level work.
Exploration of Interests:
Pro: Dual credit programs offer students the chance to explore different subjects and fields of study before committing to a college major. This exploration can help them make more informed decisions about their future career paths.
Cons:
Increased Stress and Workload:
Con: Balancing high school and college coursework can be overwhelming, leading to increased stress and burnout. Students may struggle to manage the demands of both, affecting their academic performance and well-being.
Transferability of Credits:
Con: Not all colleges and universities accept dual credit courses, or they may not count towards a student’s intended major. This can lead to complications and potential delays in completing a degree.
Social and Emotional Readiness:
Con: High school students may not be emotionally or socially prepared for the independence and responsibilities that come with college-level courses. This can lead to struggles with time management, self-discipline, and the overall college experience.
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Electoral College, Explain it to Me Like I’m in 5th Grade
Electoral College explained to you like you're in 5th grade, but with grown-up situation. You will understand it better and possibly change your mind about it.
I asked ChatGPT…
…to explain the electoral College to me in simpler terms. Something an adult would comprehend more, like a neighborhood. This is what I got.
Can you provide a thought experiment on a smaller scale of how the US electoral college is useful. Maybe down to a neighborhood.
Available on Podcast Platform
Check out the video explanation of what this meant to me and how I interpreted this information.
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Certainly! Let's imagine a neighborhood made up of several different blocks. Each block has a different number of residents, and they have different priorities and preferences.
Scenario:
You have a neighborhood with three blocks:
Block A has 50 residents.
Block B has 30 residents.
Block C has 20 residents.
Now, let's say the neighborhood wants to decide on a new community project: should they build a new park or a swimming pool?
Popular Vote Approach:
If you just count every resident's vote equally, the majority rules.
Block A: 40 residents want a park, 10 want a pool.
Block B: 10 residents want a park, 20 want a pool.
Block C: 5 residents want a park, 15 want a pool.
If we count up all the votes:
Park: 55 votes
Pool: 45 votes
The park wins, because Block A had a majority, and it’s the largest block.
Electoral College Approach:
Now, imagine each block gets one vote, and the block’s decision is based on its own majority vote (like an electoral vote).
Block A: Majority wants a park, so Block A’s one vote goes to the park.
Block B: Majority wants a pool, so Block B’s one vote goes to the pool.
Block C: Majority wants a pool, so Block C’s one vote goes to the pool.
Now, let’s count the block votes (like electoral votes):
Park: 1 vote (Block A)
Pool: 2 votes (Blocks B and C)
Even though the popular vote favored the park, the electoral system favors the pool. This is because Blocks B and C, though smaller, combined their preferences to outweigh Block A’s larger population.
Why It Matters:
This system ensures that the smaller blocks (or states, in the real Electoral College) aren't completely ignored by the larger block (or state) just because they have fewer people. It forces candidates (or project proponents) to appeal to a broader range of interests rather than just focusing on the most populous areas.
So, in this neighborhood, the electoral college system helps ensure that the smaller blocks have a significant voice in the decision, rather than being overwhelmed by the largest block’s preferences.
You said:
In this example. Would all blocks be of equal size?
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
In the example I provided, the blocks are not of equal size in terms of population, but each block is given an equal "vote" when using the electoral college approach. This is similar to how the U.S. Electoral College gives each state a certain number of electoral votes, with smaller states having a minimum number of votes to ensure they are represented, even if their populations are much smaller.
To clarify:
Population Size: The blocks have different population sizes (Block A: 50 residents, Block B: 30 residents, Block C: 20 residents).
Voting Power: In the electoral college approach, each block, regardless of population size, gets one vote. This means each block's decision (whether it’s for the park or the pool) is represented equally when the final decision is made, even though the blocks are of different sizes.
This disparity between population size and voting power is key to understanding the dynamics of an electoral college system. It gives smaller groups (like Blocks B and C) more influence than they would have in a straight popular vote, where Block A's larger population would dominate.
You said:
Is the electoral college made to account for land mass also? If there are states that have little population, but a lot of land vs a lot of population on small amounts of land…
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
The U.S. Electoral College is not explicitly designed to account for land mass; rather, it balances population size and state representation.
Here's how it works:
Population Representation:
Each state's number of electoral votes is primarily based on its population. This is because the number of electoral votes a state has is the sum of its representatives in the House (which is population-based) and its two senators (which is equal for all states, regardless of size or population).
States with larger populations get more electoral votes because they have more representatives in the House of Representatives.
State Representation:
Every state, regardless of population or land size, gets two additional electoral votes representing its two senators. This means that smaller states have a slightly higher proportion of influence compared to their population size alone. For instance, Wyoming (a small population but large land area) has 3 electoral votes, while California (a large population but relatively small land area) has 54 electoral votes.
Land Mass vs. Population:
Land Mass: The Electoral College does not give any explicit weight to the physical size of a state. Large states in terms of land area like Alaska, Montana, and Wyoming do not get more electoral votes because of their land size. Their electoral votes are based on population plus the fixed number of two Senate-based electoral votes.
Population: States with large populations but smaller land areas, such as New York or California, have significantly more electoral votes because they have many more representatives in the House.
Practical Impact:
While land mass isn't directly considered, the structure of the Electoral College does give more influence to less populated states, many of which happen to have large land areas. This is due to the "Senate effect," where every state gets two electoral votes regardless of population.
Example:
California (a large population, small land mass) has 54 electoral votes because of its large population.
Wyoming (a small population, large land mass) has 3 electoral votes, which is relatively high given its small population because of its guaranteed two Senate-based votes.
In summary, while the Electoral College doesn’t account for land mass directly, its structure ensures that smaller states (which often have more land but fewer people) are not entirely overshadowed by the more populous states. This helps balance the interests of states with different population densities, though the balance is more about political power between states rather than a direct land vs. population consideration.
You said:
Can you run the thought experiment again with the electoral college for a neighborhood, but this time account for proportional votes. Representatives for population per block, and also representative per block, as the house and senate representatives.
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Certainly! Let’s expand on the neighborhood thought experiment, introducing a more detailed analogy with proportional representation similar to the U.S. Electoral College, which includes both House (population-based) and Senate (equal representation) aspects.
Scenario:
You still have a neighborhood with three blocks:
Block A: 50 residents
Block B: 30 residents
Block C: 20 residents
Voting System Breakdown:
House of Representatives Equivalent (Population-Based):
The neighborhood will allocate a certain number of "representative votes" based on population. For simplicity, let’s assign one representative for every 10 residents:
Block A: 5 representatives (because 50 residents)
Block B: 3 representatives (because 30 residents)
Block C: 2 representatives (because 20 residents)
Senate Equivalent (Equal Representation):
Each block, regardless of population, gets 2 "senate votes":
Block A: 2 senate votes
Block B: 2 senate votes
Block C: 2 senate votes
Total Electoral Votes:
Each block’s total electoral votes is the sum of its representative votes and senate votes.
Block A: 5 (House) + 2 (Senate) = 7 electoral votes
Block B: 3 (House) + 2 (Senate) = 5 electoral votes
Block C: 2 (House) + 2 (Senate) = 4 electoral votes
Voting Preferences:
Let’s say the residents’ preferences for a park versus a pool are the same as before:
Block A: 40 residents want a park, 10 want a pool.
Block B: 10 residents want a park, 20 want a pool.
Block C: 5 residents want a park, 15 want a pool.
Block-Level Decisions:
Each block votes internally, and the block’s electoral votes go to the majority preference within that block:
Block A: Majority for the park, so all 7 of Block A’s electoral votes go to the park.
Block B: Majority for the pool, so all 5 of Block B’s electoral votes go to the pool.
Block C: Majority for the pool, so all 4 of Block C’s electoral votes go to the pool.
Tallying the Electoral Votes:
Park: 7 electoral votes (Block A)
Pool: 9 electoral votes (Blocks B and C)
Outcome:
The pool wins with 9 electoral votes versus 7 for the park.
Analysis:
Population Influence (House Votes): Block A, with the largest population, has the most House representatives, giving it the most votes in the House component. However, it still doesn’t dominate the outcome because the Senate component gives smaller blocks more relative influence.
Equal State Representation (Senate Votes): Blocks B and C, despite having fewer people, get the same number of Senate votes as Block A. This equal representation in the Senate component means their collective decision can outweigh the larger Block A’s preference.
Why It’s Important:
This system ensures that both population size (the House component) and equal representation (the Senate component) play a role in the final decision, similar to how the U.S. Electoral College balances the influence of more populous states with less populous ones. Smaller blocks (like smaller states) still have significant influence, ensuring their interests aren’t completely overshadowed by the more populous blocks.
Finding Purpose vs Finding Happiness - Season 3 | Episode 3
If religion in schools could reduce the amount of school shootings would you be for it? What about learning to practice a different religion other than the one you grew up with? Could religion in schools have other benefits past spiritual ones?
Release Date: July 19, 2024
When you find your purpose, it gives you a reason to get up every morning. It may even help you find some happiness along the way. Or have you gotten a taste of happiness and that's what now becomes your purpose, to chase happiness. We discuss this and more, along with some other fun tangents.
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. We take difficult topics and try to identify what’s blocking your view. We try to unlearn, rewash, and rewire our brains since we don’t seem to be having much luck changing other people’s views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, I suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Introduce - Our guests
OPTIONAL introduce skilled areas. Impact of bias on the listeners opinion.
Relation
Friends
Family
Length of time knowing each other.
Years
Months
Weeks
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Biases - How aware are you of your inclinations?
Does that make the right or wrong, or just your own?
Topic - Finding purpose vs Finding Happiness - How do we know if we’re maturing
Scenario - Scale from 1-100.
State your position. At the end we come back and see if the needle moved at all.
Scenario 1
You are running your own business and need to hire staff, you value maturity. One applicant is 25 and has lived on their own since they were 18. The other applicant is also 25 but still lives with their parents.
On a scale of 1-10, who do you think may be a more mature applicant.
Gabriel - 8/8
Vero - 7/7
Sal - 8/8
Scenario 2
Which side do you lean towards more. On a scale of 1-10.
Does having purpose find happiness. 10 Happiness gives you purpose. 5 they are both the same thing/symbiotic
Gabriel - 1/3.5/5
Vero - 3/5
Sal - 3/5
Scenario 3
How similar are animals to humans. Do animals need purpose as much as humans do?
On scale of 1-10, 1 being, “No they do not,” and 10, “Yes they do.”
Gabriel - 6/8/10
Vero - 7/9
Sal - 4/6
Questions to think about
How easily are you able to change your opinions?
How aware are you of your biases when forming opinions?
What is blocking your view? What is keeping you from changing your mind?
Religion in Schools - Season 3 Premiere
If religion in schools could reduce the amount of school shootings would you be for it? What about learning to practice a different religion other than the one you grew up with? Could religion in schools have other benefits past spiritual ones?
Release Date: June 14, 2024
If religion in schools could reduce the amount of school shootings would you be for it? What about learning to practice a different religion other than the one you grew up with? Could religion in schools have other benefits past spiritual ones?
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Ana and Adrian Chavez
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Scenario 1
They are introducing a religion into the school, but it is a religion you’re not a part of. For example if you’re Christian they would be introducing Islam or vice versa
On a scale of 1-10, how ok would you be with this? 0 is not ok 10 definitely ok
Ana - 10/10
Adrian - 10/10
Vero - 4/6
Sal - 2/6
Highlights
9:40
11:25
22:45
Scenario 2
Religion has been introduced to schools, and it has significantly reduced the number of school shootings.
On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to be for or against having religion in schools. 1 against 10 For.
Ana - 9/9
Adrian - 8/6
Vero - 9/9
Sal - 8/8
Highlights
24:20
30:00
32:39 - Ana Response - Scientific evidence - Special needs daughter
Scenario 3
Religion will be introduced but not in a practicing way. You will learn facts, and history, but not be required to practice.
On scale of 1-10, are you for against this.
Ana - 10/10
Adrian - 10/10
Vero - 10/9
Sal - 8/8
Highlights
27:00
When is it not your culture’s fault? Season Finale
You've probably heard or said, "I was raised that way." Is this a reason or an excuse? At what point should you do something about it if it is not in yours or other's self-interest. (Recorded in 2023)
Release Date: May 29, 2024
You've probably heard or said, "I was raised that way." Is this a reason or an excuse? At what point should you do something about it if it is not in yours or other's self-interest.
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Kevin Vazquez
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Book Discussion - Mere Christianity
Book Discussion - Mere Christianity
Based on a series of talks by CS Lewis during the 1940’s. This book clears up many misconceptions on Christianity that both Christians and non-Christians may have.
Release Date: Feb 18, 2024
Last Updated: March 4, 2024
Book discussion - Mere Christianity.
Based on a series of talks by CS Lewis during the 1940’s. This book clears up many misconceptions on Christianity that both Christians and non-Christians may have.
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Video
Audio
Notes
Lewis was an amateur, not a beginner.
Among Christians, this book is highly acclaimed and considered as an extra gospel to the bible
Who is a Christian -
Gentleman - Coat of arms and owned land. Fact.
Gentleman - Honorable and someone who meant well. Opinion
Christian means someone who accepts Christ - To say he is not a Christian is therefore incorrect if you do not know what the person thinks and we should not JUDGE.
One can more clearly say, they are a bad Christian, but not that they are NOT a Christian. Who are we to judge?
Book 2
Rival conceptions of God
Christian’s don’t have to believe all other religions are wrong
Other religions contain some hint of the truth
Pantheist - Universe and God are one
God created universe like Man creating a picture
We have a standard to measure human behavior. A straight line vs crooked line
Atheists is too simple - how would we find that life has no meaning? If there was no light we didn’t have eyes, dark would have no meaning. Dark would be a word without meaning.
The Invasion
Religion is not simple - Even things as simple as a table
People try to put up a simple version of Christianity (willingly ignoring that it is not simple)
Duelism - can’t just be good vs bad as preference. Good has to be the correct answer
Badness is spoiled goodness
The devil is story of fallen angel. He was once good.
Christianity is a spiritual civil war. We have landed in enemy territory to change the world back to good.
The Shocking Alternative
Free will - why be given the choice? Free will is what makes all the good things worth having
Unhappiness comes from trying to find other things to make us happy - Money, fame, etc. God designed humans engines to run on God
Jesus said he was God. Among pantheism we would all be one within God. This man said he was God
Ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher
The Perfect Penitent
Mental picture to simplify, but it is not that simple, it is just an example to help understand.
Man can accept Christ without knowing how it works, just as we eat without knowing how it nourishes us
Someone with lots of assets could pay off your debt
Realizing you have been doing wrong is repentance and starting over. Unlearning.
The worse you are, the more you need it, and the less you can do it. Only a good person could repent, and do it perfectly. Only a perfect person could do it perfectly
God could only do it if he becomes man. We can’t share in God’s dying unless he dies and can’t die unless he becomes man.
Dying must’ve been easy for him. Teachers and adults help children with things that are easy for them. If need help, would you not take help from someone who has an advantage?
The Practical Conclusion
Spreading Christ life - baptism, belief, communion
Believing authority - believing New York exists even if you haven’t seen it.
You are maintaining your natural life, not making it. Same with your Christ life.
We’re good because of the Christ life in us. 🤔 we are not seeking approval, but will make us good because he loves us…
Supernatural acts - need natural and physical acts because we are in a physical and natural world
You’re only in control of yourself as far as belief
Christian’s are Christs body. Everybody added enables him to do more
Humans are not purely spiritual creatures
Must choose before he comes, rather than when you have little choice left.
Book 3
Part 1
3 Parts of Morality
Moral perfection is not a matter of preference. Sometimes wehn we’re learning, we do things wrong because it appears that that is the way it should be done.
Fleet of ships - Your ship vs another ship. Your ship is working properly. And your ship is borrowed.
Relations between man and man - cooperate
Things inside each man - disagreements
Relations between and and the power that made him - more serious problems with this one
Cardinal Virtues
Prudence - Common sense - Good vs being a fool. Not remain children in intelligence. Child heart but a adult head. Christianity is an education within itself.
Temperance - Not about abstaining, but going the right length - Tea Total? Must not look down at others that do not follow your temperance.
Justice - Fairness - Honesty, Truthfulness
Fortitude - Courage - Under danger, and “guts.”
Right action done for wrong reason does not build virtues. God does not just want obedience. Practice.
Social Morality
Do as you would be done by. Need to be reminded rather than introducing new rules.
Our jobs and skills used as Christians. Everyone should be progressing Christian values as your role.
If man does not work, he ought not to eat. Produce something good.
Leftist - Socialistic society. Leftist may believe book didn’t go far left enough, others think it goes too far left.
Old fashioned family life
Obedience - Accepting positions in power as such.
Joyful society. No busy bodies. Make our own plan interpreting as the actual plan.
Charity - Produce society that there are no poor. Either way, you should give to charity. Probably more that you are comfortable with.
Morality and Psychoanalysis
We can still build a Christian society without all of us being Christian. Do us you would be done by.
Christianity vs Psychology - Freud and Yeung regarded with respect in their fields and alternatively in their hobbies.
3 Soldiers - 1 brave, two not so brave. Both cured. One acts like first man, the other uses this new found quality to his advantage. Back to virtues. Listening to that little voice.
Nice people may not be making the most of it.
Do not judge - We only see the choice, God sees inside and what we did with the hand we were dealt.
Dichotomies - You can understand sleep while awake. Good and evil. Dark is a word without meaning.
Sexual Morality
Not fair to call people prudes or vice versa.
Inciting lust on purpose is being unchaste, by accident is disrespectful
Seems to have a lot to do with intention.
Abstinence or Faithfulness in Marriage - Hard topic with our actual situation and our instincts.
Similar acts as sex to food - Showing food and being aroused. If we were starved this would make sense. Starve vs Overindulged
Sex has always been a mess
Sex is nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing to be ashamed of in enjoying your food, but should be ashamed if you made it the center of your life and looked up pictures of food.
Must want to be cured. Make me chaste…but not yet
Sexual acts are healthy vs Any sexual act you give into is healthy
Many do not ask for Christian help in chastity because you think it is impossible. But before you run any experiment, you must go in without expectation. Try and get the answer close, thatn avoid the question and get no points.
Repressed is not suppressed - Suppressed comes as disguised form, repression is more mindful and aware
Sexual are least bad of all sins vs power. Animal vs diabolical. Cold self- righteous prick vs prostitute. Better to be neither.
Christian Marriage
Spiritual Union - Divorce is more like having both your legs cut off rather than just dissolving a business partnership
Love is not the whole thing - Love is a feeling. Good but not the best thing.
Discrediting because he is not married - Make sure you judge also based on your experience rather than what you think love should be. Books and movies.
More like a leveling up - video game. You can’t get to the next level, without the lower levels.
Can’t get the feeling back of the first time you did something.
Different consequences for legal and spiritual marriage
Men as head - Casting vote
As a bachelor - Men more just. Women fighting for the family.
Part 2
The Great Sin
Pride - Competitive by nature. Being richer, better looking, better off than the other person.
Prideful people are worshipping an imaginary God - Will preach about Him but cast out devils
Being proud of an accomplishment is not the sin
Not caring about what others think - I do care what certain people think of me
Devil loves curing a small fault by giving you a great one
Charity
Before it meant - Love in the Christian sense - State of will not a feeling - Wishing people good
Act as if you love your neighbor - This is a psychological trick
Hope
Wanting something that cannot be had in this world. We get teasers in this world.
Faith
The mind is not ruled by reason - Surgery scenario - Anesthetic not working, etc.
Trust vs Reason vs Authority
Resistance - We never would know what the outcome would have been an hour later , unless you resisted.
Complicated - You may not understand it now, but will understand it later, possibly years.
Leaving it to God - Trust God
You can’t just do whatever you want and be “forgiven,” it is your responsibility to not ignore
Human language could not separate what a human does vs what God does through you.
Book 4
Part 1 & 2
Maps
Maps - A map is a cooperative piece created by many many experiences
Theology scriptures are like the map.
You can see a map of the Atlantic, but experiencing crossing the Atlantic to acquire the clues of the Atlantic is a completely different experience
Begotten not created
Begotten - to become the father of. God begets God. Man begets man
Created - made. Made of different things. Man created other things, art, structures, etc. not another man.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Should we fear AI? How much of it are we already using without knowing? We discuss how this can and is already affecting our lives. (Recorded in 2023)
Release Date: Feb 10, 2024
Should we fear AI? How much of it are we already using without knowing? We discuss how this can and is already affecting our lives. (Recorded in 2023)
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Roger and Leasette Hernandez
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
"Just" & "Only"
Are these words toxic? Think of when you use these words. Are you using them to downplay a situation? Or are you using them to be very clear and specific. "It was 'just' one time!" vs "You can do it 'just' this one time!" Listen in and see if you agree with us.
Release Date: Sept 1, 2023
Are these words toxic? Think of when you use these words. Are you using them to downplay a situation? Or are you using them to be very clear and specific. "It was 'just' one time!" vs "You can do it 'just' this one time!" Listen in and see if you agree with us.
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Carolina Gonzalez & James Cordova
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Topic - Creative Career Paths
State your position. At the end we come back and see if the needle moved at all.
Scenario 1
Your friends are having a gathering that you are really looking forward to. As it nears, you start getting feeling a sick and develop an average cough. Nothing to bad but nothing too minor. As you explain to your friends,
On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to use “just” or “only”. I JUST have a cough or i have a cough. 0 being not likely at all, and 10 being very likely.
Carol - 1/3
James - 6/2
Vero - 2/2
Sal - 7/4
Scenario 2
You have a colleague, friend/family-member that is giving you constructive criticism over something that is either our of your control, or is unimportant to you. They are somewhat persistent and you confront them about it. They say I’m JUST trying to help.
On a scale of 1-10, how different is it to you that they used “just”?
- Carol - 2/2
- James - 1/1
- Vero - 2/4
- Sal - 2/1
What about you? What are your thoughts? Let us know.
Creative Career Paths
Is it worth following a creative career path? Fine arts, music, art, dancer, writer. Student loans are expensive. Is it worth the return on investment? Can you get hired or live a sustainable life with/without a degree?
Release Date: August 18, 2023
Is it worth following a creative career path? Fine arts, music, art, dancer, writer. Student loans are expensive. Is it worth the return on investment? Can you get hired or live a sustainable life with/without a degree?
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Maggie Vargas
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Topic - Creative Career Paths
State your position. At the end we come back and see if the needle moved at all.
Scenario 1
Your son/daughter wants to go into a creative career path (art/dance/music) but their art teacher is highly recommending against it. They are not seeing the long-term potential that other student’s would have already displayed at that same point in time. The teacher is very accomplished and experienced, so you know they are coming from a place of truth. On a scale of 1-10, do you 1, interfere, or 10 let them make that decision on their own. **NO 5’s**
- Maggie 8/8
- Vero 7/5.5
- Sal 4/7
Scenario 2
If you had to solely rely on your artistic craft, meaning not teaching or already being “famous”, how sustainable would it be for your current lifestyle? On a scale of 1-10, 1 being not a t all, and 10 very sustainable. **NO 5’s**
- Maggie 6/5.3
- Vero 3/4
- Sal 1/1
Scenario 3
We’ve gotten rid of creative studies in public education. Primary and higher education. It’s been 10 years and society has flourished, there is less poverty, everyone is making a decent living, but everything visually is very similar. Very “cookie-cutter”. On a scale of 1-10, would you trade in yours and everybody’s more established lifestyle to bring back a more artistic world? 1 being no way and 10 definitely **NO 5’s**
- Maggie 9/9
- Vero 6/6
- Sal 6/6
Questions to think about?
1. Define: Creative
having the quality of something [created](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/created) rather than imitated
2. Define: Sustainable
of or relating to a lifestyle involving the use of sustainable methods
What about you? What are your thoughts? Let us know.
Teacher Influence on Your Child - Education vs Indoctrination
Our children spend a lot of time in school. Sometimes they will learn things you as a parent prefer they didn't. Sometimes it's educational, and sometimes it can be indoctrination. In this episode we discuss both sides, what the gray areas mean, and why the lines get blurred sometimes. What's blocking your view?
Release Date: August 4, 2023
DISCLAIMER: Some hard and difficult topics. If you are easily offended, this may not be for you. There are sometimes some hard topics and hard truths, and if you are not ready for it, i suggest maybe to revisit at a later time when you do feel more prepared.
Audio
Video
Welcome to Eclipsed Views where we see what it would take to change our views. This is for self-help through Kaizen, a Japanese term for improvement in small increments.
Introduce
Guests: Adrian Sifuentes
We are citizens, colleagues, professionals, consumers, friends, family-members, teachers, learners, human beings.
Street Epistemology - Socratic Questioning
How did you come to that stance?
Are those reasons legitimate enough to continue to hold that stance?
Conjecture - Forming an opinion based on incomplete information.
How do you know when you have enough evidence to form an opinion?
Topic - Teacher Influence on your Child - Education vs. Indoctrination
Scenario - Scale from 1-100.
Your child learns something in public school that you don’t agree with and feel very strongly against. It is a social issue not necessarily a matter of fact or not. Something subjective. As the years go by, this ideology really stuck with them, but because of it, it helps them land this amazing job, and are now very financially stable and very happy.
On a scale of 1-10, how happy are you with the outcome? 1 being very unhappy and 10 being very content.
Adrian - 8/8
Vero - 8/8
Sal - 7/8
Scenerio 2
Your child learns something in public school that you DO agree with and feel very strongly about. It is a social issue not necessarily a matter of fact or not. Something subjective. As the years go by, this ideology really stuck with them, but because of it, it keeps them from landing an amazing job, and are now struggling financially and are not very happy.
On a scale of 1-10, how happy are you with the outcome? 1 being very unhappy and 10 being very content.
Adrian - 1
Vero - 2
Sal - 4
On scale of 1-10, should social issues be taught in school? 1 being no way, they need to learn it somewhere else, or 10 yes definitely learn in school.
Adrian - 5/8
Vero - 3/8
Sal - 8/8
Questions to think about?
Define: Indoctrination
to imbue with a usually partisan opinion, point of view, or principle
Indoctrinate means "brainwash" to many people, but its meaning isn't always so negative. When the verb first appeared in English in the 17th century, it simply meant "to teach"—a meaning linked closely to its source, the Latin verb docēre, which also means "to teach." (Other offspring of docēre include docile, doctor, document, and, of course, doctrine). By the 19th century, indoctrinate was being used in the sense of teaching someone to fully accept only the ideas, opinions, and beliefs of a particular group.
Education:
a: to provide schooling for
b: to train by formal instruction and supervised practice especially in a skill, trade, or profession
2a: to develop mentally, morally, or aesthetically especially by instruction
b: to provide with information**: INFORM**
3: to persuade or condition to feel, believe, or act in a desired way
What about you? What are your thoughts? Let us know.
I Asked AI (ChatGPT) Why it is Important to Support Local Business and There is a Clear Benefit
It's important to consider the broader value and impact of your purchasing decisions beyond the initial cost.
We have all heard the importance of supporting local. But why? I’ve heard many reasons, and I understand most of them. So I decided to ask AI (Artificial Intelligence) to see if it could me understand, or at least explain in a different way. Here’s what I asked?
What is considered a local business?
Why is it important to support local business?
Why is it important to support local even when it may be more expensive?
We are Omni-Versal and if you’ve ever heard or said, “I didn’t know we had this in El Paso!” You’re in the right place. We want to shine some light on El Paso’s unique businesses, artists, and events. We are a secret dimension for El Paso’s best kept secrets!
In El Paso we value price. Many times we pick our businesses based on how it fits our budget. We have many local businesses, and chain businesses. Many times the local business will have a higher price tag, but we may be buying more than what is on our receipt.
What is considered a local business?
A local business typically refers to a small-scale enterprise that operates within a specific geographic area, such as a neighborhood, town, or city. While there is no universally defined size or scope for a local business, they are generally independently owned and operated, as opposed to being part of a large national or multinational chain.
So we have laid the groundwork and established what a local business is. Here’s a little more:
Key characteristics of a local business include:
Ownership: Local businesses are typically owned by individuals or families residing in the local community. The owners are often directly involved in the day-to-day operations and decision-making processes.
Location: Local businesses have a physical presence within the community they serve. This can include storefronts, offices, workshops, or other brick-and-mortar establishments.
Community focus: Local businesses primarily cater to the needs and preferences of the local community. They often tailor their products, services, and marketing strategies to the specific demographics, culture, and demands of the area.
Size and scale: Local businesses tend to be smaller in scale compared to large corporations or chain stores. They may have a limited number of employees and operate on a smaller budget.
Supply chain: Local businesses may prioritize sourcing their products or services from local suppliers, manufacturers, or producers, supporting other businesses within the community.
Community engagement: Local businesses often actively participate in community events, support local initiatives, and build relationships with residents and organizations. They play a role in fostering a sense of community and contributing to local development.
It's important to note that the definition of a local business can vary depending on the context and specific region. Some communities or organizations may have their own criteria or definitions for what constitutes a local business.
Local business owners, would you agree with the above? There are some really interesting points.
Why is it Important to support local business?
Supporting local businesses is crucial for several reasons:
Economic growth: Local businesses are the backbone of the community's economy. When you support them, you contribute to local job creation and economic growth. This, in turn, helps to build a strong and resilient local economy.
Unique character and diversity: Local businesses often offer unique products, services, and experiences that reflect the local culture and character of the community. They contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of the area, creating a sense of place that distinguishes it from generic chain stores.
Community development: Local businesses are more likely to invest in the community. They tend to source their goods and services locally, which supports other local businesses, suppliers, and farmers. Additionally, local business owners are often involved in community initiatives, sponsorships, and events, fostering a sense of community cohesion and development.
Environmental impact: Supporting local businesses can have positive environmental effects. They generally have shorter supply chains, reducing transportation-related carbon emissions. Local businesses are more likely to use sustainable practices, source locally produced goods, and contribute to the preservation of the local environment.
Personalized service and expertise: Local businesses often prioritize providing exceptional customer service. They take the time to understand the unique needs of their customers and offer personalized recommendations and assistance. Local business owners are typically experts in their field and can offer specialized knowledge and expertise.
Job creation and employment opportunities: Local businesses are significant employers in the community. By supporting them, you help create and sustain jobs, providing employment opportunities for local residents. This improves the overall economic well-being of the community.
Stronger social connections: Local businesses are often gathering places where people can connect and build relationships. They foster a sense of belonging and community pride by providing spaces for social interactions and creating opportunities for people to come together.
Fiscal responsibility: When you support local businesses, a larger portion of your money stays within the community. Local businesses pay taxes that contribute to local infrastructure, public services, and community development. By supporting them, you indirectly support the overall well-being of the community.
This is what is not on your receipt. You are indirectly contributing to better infrastructure, public services, and community development!!
Why is it important to support local even when it may be more expensive?
From a strictly financial perspective, visiting a local business over a chain business, even if the local business is more expensive, can still be beneficial for the following reasons:
Economic Impact: Supporting local businesses helps to stimulate the local economy. When you spend money at a local business, a larger portion of that money stays within the community. The local business owner is more likely to spend their earnings locally, supporting other local businesses, suppliers, and service providers. This circulation of money within the community helps to create jobs, generate tax revenue, and foster economic growth, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
Unique Products and Services: Local businesses often offer unique and specialized products or services that may not be available at chain businesses. While these products or services might come with a slightly higher price tag, they can offer better quality, craftsmanship, or customization. By opting for local businesses, you have the opportunity to access and support these unique offerings, enhancing your overall consumer experience.
Personalized Customer Service: Local businesses often provide more personalized customer service compared to chain businesses. Local business owners and their staff tend to have a deep understanding of their products or services and can offer tailored recommendations and assistance. This personalized attention and expertise can result in a better customer experience and more satisfactory purchases.
Enhanced Community Character: Local businesses contribute to the unique character and identity of a community. They often reflect the local culture, history, and preferences. By supporting local businesses, you help preserve the diversity and distinctiveness of your community, making it a more vibrant and appealing place to live or visit. This, in turn, can have positive effects on property values and overall community desirability.
Environmental Considerations: Local businesses often have shorter supply chains and may be more likely to source products locally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, local businesses are often more inclined to adopt sustainable practices or support environmentally friendly initiatives. By supporting them, you indirectly contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious local economy.
While the immediate financial cost may be higher when choosing a local business, the long-term benefits to the community, local economy, and overall consumer experience can outweigh the price difference.
“It’s important to consider the broader value and impact of your purchasing decisions beyond the initial cost.”
Final thoughts
The second and third question resulted in very similar answers. But it stayed consistent and truthful. Here are some takeaways:
Local businesses do cater to locals. For example, in El Paso, green chile, or mazapan flavors. This would not be available in the midwest. Why would it be?
If we support each other from business to business, and consumer to business, we can create an ecosystem where we can be self-sustaining. We keep all the revenue within our community instead of sending it out to corporate headquarters!
There is greater value in what you are INDIRECTLY paying for. $80 to a chain vs $100 to a local business. Chain - $20 stays, $60 leaves the community. Local $80 stays, $20 leaves the community. It is what you are paying for that is not on your receipt!
The flip side of this is how much we accept AI. I don’t think this said anything controversial that may not be accurate or terribly misinterpreted. Either way it was an interesting experience to ask these questions to an AI platform and experience the responses it gave to my questions.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. As a business owner. Consumer. Did this change your perspective in any way? Free yourself from the chains! ⛓️
Here’s a good place to start. We have some local businesses that offering you discounts and are waiting for you to become their regular.
Salvador Melendez
Creator for Omni-Versal