Janissaries

le5540

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Monday March 27, 2006 · 3:46 PM PST

2006/03/27 · 15:46

I guess I'm fundamentally a word guy. Now, technically, everyone speaks a unique language, and we are only able to communicate with each other to the extent that they overlap (actually, most people speak several unique languages, but I only bring that up so no one else will feel compelled to). Words can multiple meanings within a language, especially if you include connotations and such, and because words fascinate me, I usually wind up writing things that are overloaded with meanings, but I'm sure you noticed that. For example, a look at the effectiveness of and an investigation into Bush's domestic spying program both reveal that it is warrantless. This delights me.
But while this may provide some insight, it's all just a teaser. I want to speak about, and interest you in a word that has been on my mind a lot lately. The OED spells it `janizary,' but in America, thanks largely to Jerry Pournelle, we say `janissary.' It refers to a functional model still in use today.
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Bad Turf

le5540

Community (This content is not subject to review by Daily Kos staff prior to publication.)

Wednesday January 04, 2006 · 2:37 PM PST

2006/01/04 · 14:37

The week after you've been fired by an organization may be the best time to examine it. Or the worst. But this is about a real issue, not just the angst that drives me to report on it. Please excuse the jargon. Read More

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