July 18, 2007, - 1:09 pm
Interesting Reads: Iraq War Vets & Dolphin Amputees; “Does Height = Power?”
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A couple of interesting reads in today’s USA Today:
* What do Iraq War vets and dolphins have in common?
A good number of both of them are amputees, and the development of prosthetic fins for dolphins helps develop better prosthetics for humans. Fascinating story of Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics’ Kevin Carroll and Brian Kolfage who lost both legs and a hand on Sept. 11, 2004 in a mortar attack in Iraq.
In general, I think Americans and American institutions and companies go way too far to accomodate animals. But, in this case, there’s a positive result for our disabled veterans. So, I’m all for it. That’s one of the many great things about America. We’re constantly inventing and innovating and making our lives better. In the Islamic world, they are only good at innovating new ways to murder and maim.
* “Does Height Equal Power?”
That’s the title of the cover story in USA Today’s Money section. The article talks about how tall CEOs use their height to command respect and authority. Even tall women execs wear heels to appear even more towering. The article says that, for us shorties, being louder and dominant is also a step up. To me–I’m about 5’1″/5’2″–I don’t mind being short at all. As a woman, I enjoy it, and I’d never want to look like a WNBA player. Height is not power in my life. Readership is (among other things). But, like the women in the article, I like wearing high heels.
Tags: America, Brian Kolfage, Debbie Schlussel, Iraq, Kevin Carroll, USA Today, WNBA player
Yep, it is not the first time this has been recognized. When he began to build his empire, all of Sam Walton’s store managers had a lean tall build, like himself.
Then there is the Napoleanic complex. And, pretty/ attractive people are often treated better than those who aren’t.
As for WNBA players, Dawn Staley (more well known) topped out at about 5’4′ and in the most recent WNBA All Star game the announcers mentioned a player who was all of 5’3″ tall. Debbie, you might not look like the average WNBA center, but you could certainly pass for a guard based on height.
I am thinking female tennis players. Now there are some unusually tall women, across the board.
zyzzyg on July 18, 2007 at 2:30 pm