Brad Rourke’s Blog
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When The Curtain Parts: My Latest Column At Ethics Newsline
I have begun a monthly column published at Ethics Newsline, the flagship publication for the Institute for Global Ethics and one which I helped develop when I worked at that organization. This month’s column is about the lessons to be drawn for leaders from the Secret Service and DEA scandals.
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The Learning Attitude Curve
I’ve been thinking lately about how our attitudes shift over time, especially when faced with new learning or practices. Many people are familiar with the “attitude curve,” which describes people’s response to change. It’s a U shape — people have to go through a low point before they accept change. This is a familiar idea…
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Writing For The Institute For Global Ethics
Friends and colleagues know that, for a number of years, I lived in Camden, Maine and led a large election-ethics initiative for the Institute for Global Ethics. Going to IGE was a decisive moment in my career, which up to that point had consisted primarily of work in government and politics (and some lobbying) in…
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Learning To Meditate
As a part of my yoga teacher training with Down Dog Yoga, I have been asked to start a regular meditation practice. When I first learned of this requirement, I thought it would be relatively easy. I have for many years had a spiritual practice that involved daily contemplation. I have learned since that the…
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Idiomatic Pet Peeves
I can’t seem to help myself. I get my dander up when confronted by improper use of idiomatic English (or even just plain, old correct English) expressions by people who ought to know better. A few on my mind lately include: One does not “home in on” something. One “hones in on” it. [UPDATE: I…
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My Ancestor, Tiernan O'Rourke, The Irish King
It’s St. Patrick’s Day, so it is a good time to explore the Irish king in my ancestry, Tiernan O’Rourke. Tiernan (or Tigernan Ua Ruairc) was king of Breifne, a region that no longer exists, from around 1124 until around 1172. Breifne was where the current counties Cavan and Leitrim are. At the height of…
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Why Am I In Yoga Teacher Training?
As last year ended, I announced that I had decided to take a yoga teacher training course. The first weekend (of eight) is done. I am both exhilarated and tired. I am excited to be taking these first steps along a new path, and to deepen my connection (and understanding) of the practice. The teacher…
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New Issue Guide Available: Social Security — How Can We Afford It?
I am pleased to announce a new issue book developed by the Kettering Foundation for the National Issues Forums titled: Social Security: How Can We Afford It? This issue guide, authored by Maura Casey, is the latest in the issue book library of which Mannakee president I am Executive Editor. The new guide is available…
Brad Rourke 