1. Somehow the places that don't make such a big deal about Covid are not such great places to live (...and have to keep the truth a secret...Russia in denial about the high number of Covid deaths, NYT).

2. NYT covers WSJ.

3. Tribute to Marshall Sahlins.

4. Ross Douthat on god and the meritocracy (NYT).

5. John Williamson has passed away.

6. The shape of Rome.  And Brazil building new and large Christ statue.