When I was young, I was taught how to interact with other people in almost every conceivable situation — and I was good at it.
When I got a little older, I started thinking that what we were all doing in this was was somehow dishonest, because none of us cared about the things we asked each other. But I’ve learned that these “ridiculous” interactions — these “social scripts,” as I call them — serve a very important function in human societies.
As I continue to explore producing video content, I’m making almost whatever comes to my mind, regardless of whether it fits with the overall theme that I’ve set. I’ll eventually focus more one a unified theme, but while I’m learning — and trying to get better at it — I’m making whatever lets me get some practice in front of the camera.
Tap of click the video below to hear more about whether it makes sense to force children to learn what we call manners.

Defense mechanism led me to repress unacceptable emotions
THE McELROY ZOO: Here’s why Merlin enjoys autumn and spring
Rhetoric about freedom means nothing without right to secede
THE McELROY ZOO: Meet Sonny, a sweet boy who needs a home
What if repairing my worst flaw meant losing my greatest power?
Creative process can be very ugly, but I need to share mine with you
Old photos have me thinking about who I was then, how far I’ve come
Liberal NPR, PBS? Why should tax money pay to influence culture?