What Goethe Can Teach Us Today

I had once read that there were three men who were geniuses in three distinct disciplines. Goethe was one, along with Albert Einstein and Albert Schweitzer. Goethe has also been cited in several of my other, recent readings.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was no ordinary writer. As Rüdiger Safranski shows in his masterful biography, Goethe was a rare fusion of poet, scientist, statesman, and philosopher. His life reminds us of a time when knowledge was not fragmented but unified.

Read more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/07/13/what-goethe-can-teach-us-today/

Hype, Hope, and Hard Truths: What Smil Teaches Us About Innovation

I am a fan of Bill Gates. His solutions to some of the world’s greatest problems are thoughtful and interesting and on a grand scale. Not solutions available at a personal level. One of his favorite authors is Vaclav Smil, which prompted me to read this book.

In Invention and Innovation, Vaclav Smil slices through the glossy veneer of modern tech enthusiasm with the precision of a skeptical historian. Instead of jumping on the bandwagon of progress, he asks a deeper question: what really counts as innovation?

Read more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/06/30/hype-hope-and-hard-truths-what-smil-teaches-us-about-innovation/

Adventures in Computation: Stephen Wolfram’s Vision of the Future

I have always been interested in computation and information, which attracted me to this book. I found Adventures of a Computational Explorer, interesting, though Wolfram’s style and egotism wore thin after a while. Towards the end I found myself skimming more than reading. Though the various software programs he developed seem effective enough, I am not inclined to try any of them. Nonetheless, I thought sharing a summary of this book worth doing.

Wolfram asks “What if the universe is just a computation unfolding?”

Read more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/06/18/adventures-in-computation-stephen-wolframs-vision-of-the-future/

Richard Feynman: Revolutionizing 20th Century Physics

In reading or listening to anything on 20th century physics, Richard Feynman and his physics play a prominent role. With this in mind, I listened to Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman.

When we think of scientific genius in the 20th century, Richard Feynman stands out not just for his intellect but for transforming how physics is practiced, taught, and imagined. James Gleick’s Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman offers a deep dive into Feynman’s professional contributions, focusing on his revolutionary ideas and scientific collaborations.

Read more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/06/11/richard-feynman-revolutionizing-20th-century-physics/

Exploring Chaos Theory: From Niagara Falls to Science

My wife and I recently took a trip to Niagara Falls, staying on the Canadian side. I also just finished reading Chaos: Making a New Science, by James Gleick. As I looked at the falls and the rushing Niagara River, thinking about all of that turbulence enhanced the experience.

James Gleick’s Chaos: Making a New Science is a groundbreaking account of the emergence of chaos theory in the late 20th century. It traces how scientists in various fields began to recognize that deterministic systems could produce behavior so unpredictable that it appeared random—a profound shift in how we understand nature.

Read more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/06/07/exploring-chaos-theory-from-niagara-falls-to-science/

You can see my observation on the iNaturalist site here. https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/286503751

A Welcome Sight in Spring

Today’s woodland walk brought a delightful surprise: a beautiful cluster of Dryad’s Saddle mushrooms, also known as Polyporus squamosus. This impressive bracket fungus often appears on dead or dying hardwood trees—particularly elm, maple, or box elder—and is a welcome herald of spring.

First Impressions

Dryad’s Saddle gets its name from the old belief that wood nymphs, or “dryads,” might use the broad, flat caps as resting places. The ones I observed were striking: pale yellow-tan with prominent brown scales, like a leopard’s spots on a saddle-shaped fungus. Each cap was about 6 to 10 inches across—though they can grow even larger—and stacked in overlapping shelves on the side of a fallen log.

Ecological Role

Dryad’s Saddle is a saprobic fungus, meaning it helps decompose dead organic matter, playing a key role in nutrient cycling in the forest. It can also behave as a weak parasite, growing on living trees and slowly contributing to their decline. Either way, it’s an indicator of ecological transition: the renewal of life through decay.

Edibility and Foraging Notes

This mushroom is edible when young, before the flesh becomes tough and woody. Foragers often slice thin, young specimens and sauté them with garlic or herbs. The flavor is mild, sometimes compared to cucumber or watermelon rind—though texture is the key consideration. Once mature, they become inedible due to their leathery consistency. When I saw it, it was too late for harvesting.

⚠️ Caution: Always be absolutely sure of your identification before consuming wild mushrooms. Mistakes can be dangerous. When in doubt, consult a local expert or mycologist.

Further Reading

MushroomExpert.com: Polyporus squamosus

EdibleWildFood.com: Dryad’s Saddle

Observing Dryad’s Saddle: The Forest’s Spotted Surprise

https://blossom.primal.net/8ebde88df3eb202ec31c7edb32d2d1a506f1fd78225659131587cb622427424a.webp

Derek’s Stuff

I have mentioned Derek in an earlier post about my cherry/purpleheart dining room table. In this short clip from his most recent YouTube video, you see his stone kitchen sink.

I have been impressed by Derek’s metalworking and blacksmithing, and am amazed by his stoneworking skills.

You can see more of his work on his YouTube channel.

Exploring the Evolution of Information in James Gleick’s Work

I have found “information” fascinating. It seems to tie everything together. That is what attracted me to The Information.

James Gleick’s The Information traces the evolution of human understanding of information—from oral traditions and alphabets to modern computational theory. The book draws connections between language, biology, physics, and digital technologies to show how information underpins our understanding of the universe.

See more ... https://deangelis.tech/2025/05/28/exploring-the-evolution-of-information-in-james-gleicks-work/

🌿 Hyssop: The Sacred Herb with Healing Power

A few years back, I enjoyed making mead. My son, who also makes mead, suggested using hyssop in my mead. I also noticed at the store of a Bucks County PA distillery, hyssop-infused bourbon. I tried unsuccessfully for a few years to grow it, but last year I finally got it to grow. I did not end up using it last year, but to my surprise, it came up on its own this year.

Read more ...

https://deangelis.tech/2025/05/27/%f0%9f%8c%bf-hyssop-the-sacred-herb-with-healing-power/

The Philosophy of The One-Straw Revolution

When we sold our Pennsylvania house, we had to install a new septic system as a condition of the sale. The only place on the property that suited the installation was at the location of my garden, so the garden had to be destroyed. I had gardened for 16 years using permaculture principles. No chemical pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or other chemicals. I shared garden beds with my neighbors for all of those years. On the night before the garden was to be taken out, my neighbors went into the garden and took several buckets of the garden soil. They said it was the best soil they had ever seen. I had often thought that I was not so much growing plants as growing soil. A few days ago I blogged about the methods of The One-Straw Revolution. Thinking back to the Pennsylvania garden, I thought to post a summary of it’s philosophy.

Introduction

The One-Straw Revolution is not only a manifesto on natural farming but also a profound meditation on humanity’s relationship with nature. Masanobu Fukuoka’s work invites readers to reconsider modern life’s assumptions, proposing a philosophy of non-action (wu wei), humility before nature, and the futility of human arrogance in attempting to control the world.

The Principle of “Do-Nothing” Farming

Beyond Agriculture

Fukuoka’s method is as much spiritual as it is agricultural. “Do-nothing” is not negligence—it’s non-intervention aligned with natural rhythms.

By “doing less,” we achieve more—not through control but through participation with nature.

The Illusion of Progress

Modern agriculture, driven by science and mechanization, promises control but delivers dependency and ecological decline.

Fukuoka critiques the faith in technological progress, arguing that each solution generates further problems.

Nature as Teacher

Observational Wisdom

True understanding arises from deep observation, not abstract theory.

He believed scientific knowledge divorced from reality leads to misunderstanding and harm.

Harmony over Dominance

Humans should cooperate with nature, not dominate it.

Nature, left alone, moves toward balance. Intervention often disrupts this.

Humility and the Limits of Human Knowledge

Fukuoka repeatedly asserts that we know too little to meddle so extensively.

He challenges the ego of the “expert,” instead praising the unassuming wisdom of peasants, monks, and naturalists.

Quotes like “The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings” reflect his deep spiritual ethos.

Simplicity and Self-Sufficiency

True freedom, according to Fukuoka, comes not from affluence but from simplicity.

His ideal is a life close to the land, unencumbered by material excess or societal ambition.

The natural farm is not a retreat—it is a site of inner cultivation and awakening.

Critique of Dualism and Rationalism

Fukuoka critiques the Western tendency to separate man from nature, subject from object, science from spirit.

His philosophy is non-dualistic, echoing Zen and Taoist traditions that emphasize wholeness and interconnectedness.

Conclusion

At its core, The One-Straw Revolution is a spiritual document. Fukuoka’s farm is his monastery, and his method is a way of life rooted in acceptance, presence, and reverence for the Earth. His call is radical: abandon the hubris of mastery, and instead, walk lightly, attentively, and humbly in the world.

As he writes: “The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.”

Slow-Carb Diet: Make Your Own Vinaigrette

I generally follow the slow-carb diet as prescribed by Tim Ferriss in The 4-hour Body. When using salad dressings, I try to use no sugar varieties, and especially with no sugar added. These have been almost exclusively store-bought and almost always use seed oils. To avoid these, I thought I would start making my own, and came across the recipe below.

With regards to fats, there seems to be a political divide. Those on the right who think about such things maintain that the only healthy fats, with few exceptions, come from animal sources. Those on the left maintain that animal fats, particularly saturated fats from red meat, are unhealthy. The only fats that both sides seem to agree on that are healthy are olive oil and avocado oil. Both sides have studies proving their case, but I find it hard sorting them out. But choosing for the intersection, for olive and avocado oils, seems wise. So when I came upon this recipe, with its olive oil base, it looked worth a try.

🥗 Simple Vinaigrette Recipe

Ingredients

1 small shallot, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

1 small clove garlic, minced (about 1/2 teaspoon)

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon water

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Combine shallot, garlic, mustard, vinegar, and water in a large bowl and whisk to combine. Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Alternatively, place all ingredients in a tightly sealing jar, seal, and shake vigorously until emulsified. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Vinaigrette will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

I tried this recipe today and it was quite good. I can see opportunities to vary some of the ingredients as the summer season progresses and more fresh options become available.

Masanobu Fukuoka’s Guide to Sustainable Gardening

Yesterday spent time in the annual garden putting in plants purchased from a local garden center. It is the time of year to think about the garden, and nature. That brings to mind the One-Straw Revolution.

For a summary of the book focusing on practical suggestions from the book, please see my blog post. https://deangelis.tech/.../masanobu-fukuokas-guide-to.../

[⚠️ Suspicious Content] Masanobu Fukuoka’s Guide to Sustainable Gardening

Yesterday spent time in the annual garden putting in plants purchased from a local garden center. It is the time of year to think about the garden, and nature. That brings to mind the One-Straw Revolution.

Introduction

Masanobu Fukuoka’s The One-Straw Revolution presents a compelling case for what he calls “natural farming”—a no-till, organic method that requires minimal human intervention and mimics natural ecosystems. This summary focuses on the practical suggestions Fukuoka offers for farmers, gardeners, and individuals seeking a simpler, more harmonious way of living with the land.

Core Practices of Natural Farming

1. No Tillage (No Plowing or Turning of the Soil)

Let the soil structure remain intact; it already contains layers and microbial life that are self-sustaining.

Earthworms and plant roots naturally till the soil.

Tillage leads to nutrient loss and soil degradation over time.

2. No Fertilizer

Green manure crops (like clover) can enrich the soil naturally.

Decaying plant matter and nitrogen-fixing species maintain soil fertility.

Use straw and plant residues as surface mulch.

3. No Chemical Pesticides or Herbicides

Diverse plantings increase natural resistance to pests.

Let weeds grow to an extent—they protect soil and encourage biodiversity.

Birds, insects, and other wildlife form a balanced pest control system.

4. No Weeding by Tillage or Herbicides

Ground cover crops and natural mulching suppress weeds.

Minimal hand weeding may be necessary, but weeds are part of the ecosystem.

Use white clover or fast-growing rice as living mulch.

5. No Pruning (for Trees)

Pruning disturbs the natural growth form of trees.

Allow trees to develop their natural shape and resilience.

Excessive pruning weakens the plant and increases disease risk.

Seasonal Techniques and Crop Rotations

Rice-Wheat-Barley Rotation: Broadcast barley over maturing rice; scatter rice into barley stubble.

Seed Balls: Encase seeds in clay to protect them from birds and drying out; scatter directly on soil.

Timing with Nature: Observe and align planting with natural indicators (e.g., blooming of wildflowers, rainfall patterns).

Soil and Water Management

Minimal Irrigation: Let rainfall dictate watering cycles.

Cover Crops: Retain moisture and prevent erosion.

Natural Terracing: Use the shape of the land to slow water runoff.

Practical Garden and Lifestyle Advice

Grow Your Own Food: Small-scale, diverse home gardens can meet most nutritional needs.

Eat Seasonally and Simply: Emphasize unrefined grains, vegetables, and minimal processing.

Live in Rhythm with Nature: Avoid mechanized farming and industrial food chains.

Philosophical and Practical Integration

Fukuoka argues that the path to sustainable living starts with humble observation. Farmers are not engineers but participants in nature. He suggests that the less we do, the closer we align with the natural order—and paradoxically, the more productive and fulfilling our farming becomes.

Conclusion

Fukuoka’s approach is radical yet deeply rooted in observation and tradition. The practical suggestions he provides challenge modern agricultural norms but offer a resilient, ecological, and spiritual alternative. His core lesson: “Do nothing” farming is not about laziness, but about trust in nature’s wisdom.

Resolving AI Download Errors on Windows and Ubuntu

As I have blogged in the past, I work with AI for my various activities, including my book summaries. I ask the AI for the book analyses in various files to download. In my last effort, when I went to download the files, I got an error message “File not found”. Working with AI found no apparent fixes for the problem. I tried three different browsers. I finally concluded that the issue was with Windows. But I could find no reasons, including security settings, for the problem. So I opened the AI on my Ubuntu machine. The files still did not download, but the error message was different: “Code interpreter session expired”. I input this to the AI and it figured out the problem. I do not quite understand what the problem was. Something to do with how the AI was naming the files, but I was able to get downloadable files.

I know that Windows knew what the problem was, but don’t know why it would not tell me. Ubuntu seemed more to want me to debug the problem. Unfortunately, there are programs that I need that don’t work in Linux. Otherwise it would be my main operating system.

Napoleon

I am currently reading Napoleon by Andrew Roberts. He has a lot of detail on the battles, but the maps in the book are not very helpful to me to understand what happened. I found a YouTube channel that does a good job of illustrating the battles (https://www.youtube.com/@EpichistoryTv). If I watch the videos in conjunction with reading the book, I get a much better understanding.

I just purchased the Vevor worm bin. Any recommendations on worm sources? #grownostr #permaculture