Welcome to day #13 of my daily learning journal. My goal is to watch one Ted Talk and one cataract surgery each day. In addition, I plan to read one journal article and read/listen to a book chapter, short story or other piece of significant work.
In honor of my (12 + 1) post, I found a Ted Talk which lends itself to superstition-like beliefs. Or, rather, debunking them.
Here’s today’s list:

- Ted Talk – Michael Shermer – Why people believe weird things – “Why do people see the Virgin Mary on a cheese sandwich or hear demonic lyrics in “Stairway to Heaven”? Using video and music, skeptic Michael Shermer shows how we convince ourselves to believe — and overlook the facts.” (ted.com)
“Michael Shermer debunks myths, superstitions and urban legends — and explains why we believe them. Along with publishing Skeptic Magazine, he’s author of Why People Believe Weird Things and The Mind of the Market.” (ted.com)
This a fun Ted Talk and worth a watch for my (12 + 1) post.
2. Cataract Surgery – MICS Suite by ASICO with Alcon Centurion™ Grade V Cataract by Dr. Akahoshi – The YouTube description states, “Dr. Akahoshi performs cataract grade V surgery with new Harmonyx™ with Alcon Centurion™.”
Dr. Akahoshi is a cataract surgeon legend. Watching his surgeries is similar to experiencing a great symphony.

3. Journal article – Superstitions of George Bartisch. By Donald L. Blanchard. George Bartisch was a 16th century German ophthalmologist who published the first ophthalmology textbook in the vernacular for laymen and non–university-trainee. Survey of Ophthalmology. History of Ophthalmology. Volume 50, Issue 5, P490-494, September 01, 2005.

4. Jane Austen. Pride and Prejudice. Chapter 8-14 via LoyalBooks.com podcast. Excellent narration. I normally don’t venture into fiction and decided to start with the most popular on LoyalBooks.com.
I hope you enjoy these selections.
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