Model Sues Google...

Freedom of speech vs. the right to know who is saying that speech.
I guess if someone was saying terrible things about me anonymously, I would want to know who is saying it. But then again, if you don't have the kahonies to say these things with your real name attached, then should anyone put any faith into what you are saying?  If it is slander, then I don't think it really matters. But if they are accusations, then you should have the right to face your accuser.
Although, freedom of speech should let you say whatever you want to say.  But I still think if you are going to say something outrageous, or stupid, have the decency to attach your name to it.

Middle East Uprising...

Very interesting article.
Kind of puts Facebook in a hard spot. Wanting the uses to have freedom of speech, but also wanting to get into countries that frown on those ideas. Having to figure out if the user is doing something illegal (like a government trying to stop an uprising), or if they are just trying to get word out about what is going on in their country.
I'm not sure how I feel about this. Although I believe in freedom of speech, how far should a company go to insure that freedom for it's users? Why should the company be responsible for ensuring your message gets heard? The only thing they should be responsible for is keeping your information confidential.
I guess if you are afraid of getting found out by using your real name (like Facebook requires), then I guess you need to find another way to get your word out. But then again, what is wrong with using an alias when you aren't hurting someone. I might say that maybe you don't feel strong enough if you don't use your real name, but you could probably do more good if you use an alias don't get shut down, or thrown into prison.
Hmmm, lots to thing about...
Kinda rambled on there, but that's what makes a blog a blog right?  :o)

Syrian Blogger Arrested...

Stories like this make me glad to be living in the United States. Although I might take my freedom for granted sometimes (being a white male that grew up in a nice home and city). The civil rights movement was not too long ago, and we still have people being discriminated against today.  But, unlike in other countries, you usually don't end up in jail for expressing your views. Again, I am glad to be an American.

Second Life

What is it?
Looks like it is a 3D world that has actual people interacting.  Looks like it might be similar to the Sims game from a few years ago, except it says that is free.  But like most things, you are probably limited by what you can do without purchasing upgrades.
You can talk to others by voice or text.  People and places are all created by users.
I think you could waste a lot of time in this make-believe world.
And there are biker chicks...