Well-Prepared Ground

We used to think that revolutions are the cause of change. Actually it is the other way around: change prepares the ground for revolution

– Eric Hoffer,  The Temper of  Our Time (1967)

In this week's sift:

• Everybody will support gay marriage by 2030. Support for gay rights has the most inexorable kind of momentum: generational. President Obama's "evolution" may look risky now, but as gay-rights supporters come of age and opponents die, even the most homophobic politicians will have to capitulate -- just like segregationist politicians did in the 1970s.
• 77 Cents, part 2: What if secretaries became programmers? In a miniature economy with only 30 occupations, eliminating the difference between male-dominated occupations and female-dominated ones only knocks 3 cents off the pay gap. Equalizing pay within the 30 occupations knocks 12 cents off.
• Does Romney's bullying matter? and other short notes. The important thing isn't what Mitt Romney did half a century ago; it's how well his reaction today fits the story his critics tell about him. What Mom really wanted. LBJ's greatest moment. Maurice Sendak's last interview. Why does college cost so much? And more.
• Last week's most popular post. It was a slow week. Where the Jobs Are and other short notes was the most popular post with 140 views.
• This week's challenge. The Wisconsin recall campaign is on: a rematch of Walker vs. Barrett. Between now and June 5, this the biggest race going, and it will have national implications. You can contribute to the Barrett campaign here.