avid reader with memory issues

So, I am reading this book by Malcolm Gladwell, What The Dog Saw. Not a bad read, so far (I'm only on page 165). Though I have been slightly disappointed with the fictional feel of this generally nonfiction book. It's not quite as nonfictional as, say, Blink or The Tipping Point (two of his other writings). But, it is a manageable read, and I am actually learning a few tidbits of random information that I will hopefully, in the not-so-distant-future, be able to share with unsuspecting victims...I mean friends...as the opportunity arrises in lively discussion.

I am upset with myself because I did not start blogging at the beginning of this book. So, some of my recollection of the details in this book might be a bit foggy (not to say they are inaccurate)!

I read about the inventor of the Chop-O-Matic and how is unyielding belief in his product and ability to convince people of their absolute need for his product led to his great success.

I've read about how the creator of the original birth control pill- a devout Catholic- felt that his creation was exactly what the Catholic church was looking for to help with unwanted pregancies. His pill worked naturally with the female body to inhibit pregnancy. As we know, that didn't work out so well for him!

I read about Cesar Millan and his ability to whisper to dogs. Imagine this, two dog owners are walking their dogs and cross paths. The owners become worried that their doggies will lash out or become aggressive toward each other. (Dogs have an uncanny ability to read our body language.) They READ those feelings of anxiety and worry. Because of these feelings, they become anxious themselves and, as a result, fulfill the prophecies of their two respective owners. Something to think about the next time you are walking your dog.

Set two cups upside down (one has food and one does not) and tap on the one that has food. Point to the one that has food. Stare at the one that has food. A monkey will still guess as to the one that has food. Your clues mean nothing to the monkey. And this makes sense, because we are competitors, not compadres. A dog will go to the one you stared at, pointed at, and tapped. Because dogs depend on us for direction, safety, and understanding. This is why they will fight for you if they feel that you are threatened or scared by the dog and owner approaching you!