• We learned: some interesting things about “good” government and its relationship to the size of government. Based on the analysis provided here, smaller government does not produce greater prosperity or greater freedom. There is a positive relationship between “good” governments and prosperity and freedom, but smaller government is not generally higher quality. This is a brief look at a complex issue and some of you might like a deeper look at the data reviewed.

• We enjoyed: this advice, as Yamaha warns musicians not to climb in instrument cases after former Nissan Motor boss Carlos Ghosn fled from Japan while concealed inside one.

• We read: about a new tool that lets you see how user data is shared with, and used by, Facebook. Without intending to, many of us are sharing information with hundreds of apps. The specific tool can be found here, and is worth reviewing.

• We've been: observing the continued strength of real estate in many markets. Ever wonder why property values keep going up? Supply and demand! The Economist reports that housing construction in the developed world is HALF of what it was in the 1960s.

• We recommend: this quick look at “The Stockdale Paradox,” which is the need to balance optimism and realism. It is named for James Stockdale, a prisoner of war during Vietnam, who underwent horrific torture for years. Stockdale explained it this way: