If we're going to do executions, then the whole "pain-free" premise should go right out the door. We're killing the criminal in retaliation for a crime. Why does it need to be so painless? I mean, don't torture the criminal by starvation or dehydration or anything like that. But hanging, guillotine, firing squad, etc. are all effective means. You could even give some local to ease the pain on some of these methods.

Otherwise, all you're really doing is admitting that execution isn't right, but trying to get away with it anyway.

Slashdot has had a lot of discussion recently with regard to the (perception of the) Supreme Court justices (apparent) lack of technological savviness due to their age. This is pervasive throughout all of our government, from federal to local and throughout all three branches. Classically, this was desirable for the wisdom that comes with age, the prevention of coercion for the independent Supreme Court and/or the perks that could come from having a representative with seniority.

How do you see evolution of our government in a future where technological advances come at an ever increasing pace?

I.e., how does our government reconcile the need for wisdom in governance with the need for an understanding of the technology in the modern world, and the application of laws against it?

Just like fly-by-wire technology has made planes pretty much fly themselves! No skill necessary to operate them anymore either.

in California. Which means outrageous tax-rates, high fuel prices, etc. The houses might be cheaper (my wife and I noticed some nice ones on a recent visit, and I was surprised by the affordability of the house pricing), but all of the other "cost of living" factors make it not much more attractive then established bases in California.

And, grading helps to determine that. The problem is that classes have become so easy that the median are gaining an "A". This means that classes aren't being pushed hard enough. Instead, they teach to the lowest common denominator, or they make the grades less about mastering the material, and more about how easily one can push through loads of homework, or how quickly one can look up the right answer when given ample time. The curve grading system sucks, if enforced in retrospect. Instead, the curve should be a tool that feeds back into the school, and tells the school whether the classes are too hard, too easy, or just right.