7. "Before I saw him speak, I was less inclined to give him a pass" In response to In response to 6
I loved his article on airport security that came out in about October 2001. Loved it. I think what I really like about him is what he says about himself -- that he's an enthusiast. I really do get the impression that he only writes (essays) about things that he thinks are just really interesting, and his enthusiasm is infectious.
I have been a little less enamored with him lately, in particular with respect to the two essays you note. But then, his essay on single payer healthcare systems was marvelous. Wunderbar. Even though it didn't always stay on topic. Or maybe because of that.