In the Public Sphere

[tcpip]

Last week the VLSCI announced their new HPC system, dedicated to disease research. The Age reported on the matter, which included a few errors. My letter elaborating on these was published, alas they cut probably the most important part (that it will probably be the fifth most powerful in the world when it is complete - in two/three years), and the more humourful remark (that I have doubts that the system will "speed up time").

Whilst I was in New Zealand I also received an invitation from Intelligence Squared/St James Ethics Centre to speak on their debate on the representative quality of the Senate; alas it seems they have found somebody (Senator Nick Sherry) but will follow up with the topic on the Isocracy Network and with the organisation in the next couple of days.

Over the past several days I've been working on background chapter on Japan for tashiro's game Fox Magic; at the moment it concentrates largely on classic and medieval Japan, with modern Japan being added; it's currently about seven thousand words. Finally, on a minor note, I have received an acknowledgement in Ken Westmoreland's book on Timor-Leste, A Pretty Unfair Place.

Comments

[tashiro.livejournal.com]

You have no idea how much I appreciate the work being put in, too. I never figured Fox Magic to be a 'classic' game, I've always played it modern, but a friend mentioned he expected most players to play in the classic periods. As long as both are available and information is presented for both, I think we're fine. :)

[mr-figgy.livejournal.com]

Is your Senate elected in any way, shape or form?

The one here remains appointed. There's been a lot of talk about changing that, but as issues go it has been pushed back in the queue behind Afghan detainees, proroguing the federal parliament, and the Vancouver Winter Circus.

[slowlight.livejournal.com]

Oh sweet jesus, I have to go to this debate.