Is it more amazing that an Indian sociologist would research gangs in hardcore, inner-city, Chicago neighborhoods, and not only live to tell about it, or that for want of inventing a clever new word like Freakonomics, he would get a tiny fraction of the attention for it?

Regardless, see his latest wonderful article on the need to reform or eliminate HUD.

If you've read Venkatesh's book on gangs, please let me know what you think of it. I'd love to have an excuse to read it. It's been a long time since I read Baby Insane and the Buddha and Do or Die, it would be good to get current.

Be ready to back up your words.

Echoing Warren Buffett's comments that the best investment is in yourself, Google SVP Jonathan Rosenberg tells students to major in learning.

I think if Google wants anyone to listen, they should put their resources where their blog is, and emphasize learning in their job posts. It's no good to say "be good at learning" but then have job postings that require, for example:

• BS/MS/PhD in CS or equivalent.
• Strong Java skills and object oriented design experience, including working knowledge of core libraries, design patterns, JSP and servlets.
• Experience in database design and SQL; mySQL a plus.
• Significant development experience in a Unix/Linux environment.
• Experience with Python and C++, Javascript, and/or SOAP desired.
• Knowledge of session management, object relational mapping, XML web services, and agile development methodologies desired.

and make no mention of the "strong learning skills" or the idea that you could learn any of these things on the job because they are so much more excited to have hired such a great learner.

What's it gonna be, Google? Great learners, or candidates who only match today's needs?