Steelsnowflake's Purpose
My (and by proxy, Steelsnowflake's) purpose, at least as far as it involves the site, is polyvalent:
1. The Accurate Dissemination of Scientific Fact.
Unfortunately, although our modern society is technologically advanced, the majority of its citizens either lack the education to think rationally, or worse yet, do not care to. Steelsnowflake's primary reason for existence is not for the reeducation of the masses. I (Elihu) have a rather blurry vision that encompasses more of an arena of educated minds than a remedial learning experience. It is true, in any case, that even those (myself included) who have not yet reached any great expertise in their field can still learn by observing others.
I have no great aspirations myself, but neither do I have any false pretenses for the purpose of this site. However, as my next point will demonstrate, I have the honor of knowing some exceptional people for whom it is an honor to be able to call my friends.
2. The Observance of Excellence.
By hosting the blogs of people I foresee becoming foremost in their fields, I am attempting to chronicle the development of their minds. I also have the pleasure of knowing several individuals who have already developed exceptional skill, and I am likewise attempting to enable them in the dissemination of their wisdom.
My entire life I have always sought out those who I felt excelled in their craft, people who I could learn from. In many ways I suppose this makes me a sort of "intellectual leech", although I trust my friends will speak on my behalf as to my own contributions. By putting my resources at their disposal, I hope to not only contine my own edification, but that of others as well.
3. Discussion of Current Events
Being the rather begrudging fatalist that I am, I feel that it is cathartic to complain about the state of existence we are all subjected to. If I was a true fatalist, I'd simply accept my lot and die. However, seeing as how I am only one of the "begrudging" variety, I'm not principled enough to die, and yet not patient enough to keep my mouth shut.
In light of those personality defects, I feel that it is at times neccessary to tell the world what I think of it. Considering that many of my readers feel similarily about the universe as I do, Steelsnowflake makes a perfect "release valve." It's a good thing too, as these emotions, if not released, would eventually unleash themselves in a violent firestorm of calamity. In any case, no one's making you read my blogs, so you can't gripe if I complain too much.
4. Mind-For-Hire, Inc.
A sad fact of this age is that due to the vast breadth of technology, science, and culture, it is becoming exceedingly difficult to become adept at anything more than a single field of study.
As previously mentioned, part of Steelsnowflake exists to pull together devloping and mature minds. One of the great advantages of this is that one now has at his/her disposal, several excellent resources of information/advice.
Personally, I enjoy researching (and debunking) pseudoscientific nonsense, as well as commenting on topics relating to my fields of study (chemistry, biochemistry, physics, etc.)
In this sense, Steelsnowflake is unique, as at the time of this writing we already have three fields of study represented. (Myself, with the aforementioned areas of interest), My wife Beth (biology, animal science/vetrinary), and Michael Sawvel (human medicine). In addition to these three formal members, we also have a tight network of friends, who also have their fields of interest. (Remember what I said earlier about making friends with the best?)
Last Edited: 03/22/06