The Final Hours
Friday, October 25th, 2024
World Events and Politics — Harris’s Closing Argument
The Economists
Kamala Harris's closing argument as she campaigns for the presidency emphasizes a vision of the future that is both hopeful and nostalgic, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump's divisive legacy. As she prepares for a significant speech at the Ellipse—where Trump incited his supporters prior to the January 6 insurrection—Harris aims to highlight the dangers of Trump's potential return to power while advocating for unity and progress. Her recent rallies have shifted from a message of joy to a more serious tone, directly labeling Trump as a “fascist” and framing the election as a critical choice for American democracy. By presenting herself as a candidate focused on healing and inclusivity, Harris seeks to resonate with swing voters, including moderate Republicans, in an effort to reclaim the narrative of American optimism.
U.S. Presidential Election Countdown: 11 Days
Science and Technology — What is String Theory
New Scientist
String theory is a theoretical framework in physics that posits that the fundamental building blocks of the universe are not point-like particles, but rather tiny, one-dimensional strings that vibrate at various frequencies. These vibrations give rise to the different properties of particles, such as mass and charge, similar to how different notes are produced by vibrating strings on a musical instrument. String theory aims to unify all fundamental forces of nature—gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces—into a single coherent framework, often referred to as a “theory of everything.” It requires additional spatial dimensions beyond the familiar three, suggesting a total of ten or even more dimensions. While string theory has not yet been experimentally validated, it provides a promising avenue for reconciling general relativity with quantum mechanics and addressing unresolved questions in theoretical physics.
Business and Finance — Hermes
In the third quarter, Hermès experienced a remarkable 11.3% increase in sales compared to the previous year, surpassing analysts' expectations and generating €3.7 billion (approximately $3.99 billion) in revenue. This growth stands in stark contrast to the broader luxury market, which has been struggling, particularly as Gucci reported a staggering 25% decline in sales during the same period, primarily due to waning demand from Chinese consumers. Hermès's success is largely attributed to the strong demand for its exclusive handbags, including the iconic Birkin bag, which appeals to affluent shoppers who are less affected by economic fluctuations. While many luxury brands face challenges amid a downturn in consumer confidence, Hermès's strategic management of production and its commitment to maintaining an aura of exclusivity have positioned it as a resilient player in the industry. Despite facing slower growth in the Asia Pacific region, Hermès plans to continue investing in China, aiming to capture higher average spending from customers despite lower foot traffic.
Health and Wellness — Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Healthline
Eating chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, offers a variety of health benefits that can enhance overall well-being. It is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing bad cholesterol levels (LDL), and increasing good cholesterol (HDL). Additionally, the presence of theobromine and small amounts of caffeine can boost cognitive function and energy levels without the jitters associated with coffee. Dark chocolate also contains essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc, which support various bodily functions, including immune health and muscle function. Furthermore, moderate consumption has been linked to improved mood and reduced stress levels, likely due to its effects on cortisol, a stress hormone. Overall, incorporating dark chocolate into a balanced diet can provide both pleasure and significant health benefits.
Baking — Raspberry-Oatmeal Muffins
Before grabbing a muffin from the coffee shop or bakery, think about preparing your own healthy muffins at home for a week’s worth of convenient breakfasts. These raspberry-oatmeal muffins are crafted with whole-grain oats and flour, filled with juicy, nutrient-rich raspberries. The blend of whole grains and raspberries provides ample fiber, helping you stay satisfied and energized for longer.
Eating Well
Song Recommendation — The Heart Wants What It Wants by Selena Gomez
Quote of the Day
“Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.” Søren Kierkegaard
Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) was a Danish philosopher, theologian, and cultural critic, widely regarded as the father of existentialism. His work focused on the complexities of individual existence, faith, and the subjective nature of truth, often using irony and metaphor to explore deep philosophical questions. Kierkegaard's influential writings, including Either/Or and Fear and Trembling, challenged the established norms of organized religion and emphasized the importance of personal choice and responsibility in one’s spiritual journey.
Enjoy your Friday. Cheerios Americanos!