# Cecil's Columns/Staff Reports **URL:** https://boards.straightdope.com/c/comments-on-cecils-columns-staff-reports/7.md?page=48 [Latest](https://boards.straightdope.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://boards.straightdope.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://boards.straightdope.com/tags.md) **Page:** 49 --- ## [Male vs. female nipples](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/male-vs-female-nipples/491584)
**Author:** [@guizot](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/guizot)\ **Replies:** 47\ **Last updated:** [March 19, 2013, 9:45pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/male-vs-female-nipples/491584 "2013-03-19T21:45:35Z")
Another question is why male nipples aren’t able to be sexually stimulated. Two women have asked me about this, and I just said, “I don’t know.” But I think the answer is that, if they can’t provide milk, they’re pretty… --- ## [Hoover](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hoover/652869)
**Author:** [@pplepic](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pplepic)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [March 13, 2013, 11:11pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hoover/652869 "2013-03-13T23:11:20Z")
New lengths eh? I like that one. --- ## [Does dowsing for water really work?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/does-dowsing-for-water-really-work/162555)
**Author:** [@gordon451](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/gordon451)\ **Replies:** 160\ **Last updated:** [March 13, 2013, 2:26pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/does-dowsing-for-water-really-work/162555 "2013-03-13T14:26:18Z")
Cecil, I really must take exception to some of your comments in the dowsing article (http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a1\_168.html). You make the rather strained statement that “Any of four minor muscle movements wil… --- ## [Did Marie Antoinette really say "let them eat cake"?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/did-marie-antoinette-really-say-let-them-eat-cake/652561)
**Author:** [@derjoser](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/derjoser)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [March 11, 2013, 1:11am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/did-marie-antoinette-really-say-let-them-eat-cake/652561 "2013-03-11T01:11:26Z")
Although Marie Antoinette never said “let them eat cake,” she probably did say something similar which was rephrased and then used against her. As the government controlled the supply of wheat, over time traditions devel… --- ## [Dan Brown, ianzin & Cecil](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/dan-brown-ianzin-cecil/427938)
**Author:** [@essell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/essell)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [March 10, 2013, 10:23pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/dan-brown-ianzin-cecil/427938 "2013-03-10T22:23:05Z")
Talking about this new staff report, I was surprised to get to the end and find it was a staff report. It read like one of Cecil’s pieces for the most part. I really enjoyed it. Except: I don’t think Cecil would ever… --- ## [Humans: Naturally Herbivores or Omnivores](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/humans-naturally-herbivores-or-omnivores/652100)
**Author:** [@R3d\_Anonymous](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/R3d_Anonymous)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [March 9, 2013, 8:29pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/humans-naturally-herbivores-or-omnivores/652100 "2013-03-09T20:29:42Z")
I was reading a column on humans and whether they are naturally herbivores or omnivores. Cecil talks about intestine size and why scientists consider humans to be omnivores: \[QUOTE=Cecil\] Like the hard-core carnivores… --- ## [Virgin Birth](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/virgin-birth/652308)
**Author:** [@bennevis](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/bennevis)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [March 9, 2013, 1:11am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/virgin-birth/652308 "2013-03-09T01:11:47Z")
In his article regarding aphids and parthenogenesis Cecil tries one of his all too common attempts to uphold established prejudices with no regard for facts. His claim that “Parthenogenesis, also known as virgin birt… --- ## [Old news - Whatever happened to Staff Reports](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/old-news-whatever-happened-to-staff-reports/652072)
**Author:** [@PBear42](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/PBear42)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [March 8, 2013, 9:53pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/old-news-whatever-happened-to-staff-reports/652072 "2013-03-08T21:53:42Z")
A recent thread in GQ reminded me that I’ve not seen a Staff Report in several years. What happened? Not complaining, just curious. I assume this has been discussed before, though I missed it, so a link to the prior … --- ## [curses the potato's foiled again](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/curses-the-potatos-foiled-again/650029)
**Author:** [@DonDaniel](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/DonDaniel)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [March 8, 2013, 8:32pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/curses-the-potatos-foiled-again/650029 "2013-03-08T20:32:05Z")
It doesn’t seem to make any difference which side the foil is facing, except when you’re baking your spuds in the microwave. Then the foil should be OUTSIDE, in the drawer. --- ## [Are windmills bad for birds?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-windmills-bad-for-birds/652005)
**Author:** [@ellieswan](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/ellieswan)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [March 8, 2013, 7:50pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-windmills-bad-for-birds/652005 "2013-03-08T19:50:07Z")
You answered a question regarding windmills and weather patterns. I heard from a scientist friend of mine that windmills are terrible for migrating birds. How bad is that problem? Are windmills going to create more pr… --- ## [Leaning Tower Update](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/leaning-tower-update/413116)
**Author:** [@DSYoungEsq](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/DSYoungEsq)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [March 8, 2013, 1:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/leaning-tower-update/413116 "2013-03-08T13:05:56Z")
What was the Leaning Tower of Pisa for? There is an update on the status of the efforts to keep the tower from falling over at Wikipedia: Leaning Tower of Pisa. They appear to have removed some soil from under the high… --- ## [Do lighting rods really work?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-lighting-rods-really-work/650422)
**Author:** [@ojones01](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/ojones01)\ **Replies:** 23\ **Last updated:** [March 5, 2013, 10:56pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-lighting-rods-really-work/650422 "2013-03-05T22:56:28Z")
Would it be technologically possible to capture the electricity in lightning? LINK TO COLUMN: Do lightning rods really work? - The Straight Dope --- ## [The Tower of Pisa](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/the-tower-of-pisa/652127)
**Author:** [@pplepic](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pplepic)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 5, 2013, 10:13pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/the-tower-of-pisa/652127 "2013-03-05T22:13:11Z")
A great explanation for the story of the campanile of Pisa. I especially love the explanation for removing the bells and installing a clock. :smiley: LINK TO COLUMN: What was the Leaning Tower of Pisa for? - The Stra… --- ## [Why we itch](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-we-itch/651714)
**Author:** [@justin\_caise](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/justin_caise)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [March 3, 2013, 1:12am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-we-itch/651714 "2013-03-03T01:12:15Z")
Cecil darling, haven’t you ever noticed that after a mosquito or flea bite there is some disagreeable stuff deposited under the skin? Couldn’t itch be a signal to scratch and dig it out before it festers or spreads its p… --- ## [Do train drivers ever get lost?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-train-drivers-ever-get-lost/649202)
**Author:** [@Terry\_Kennedy](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Terry_Kennedy)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [March 2, 2013, 12:02am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-train-drivers-ever-get-lost/649202 "2013-03-02T00:02:40Z")
Regarding the side-query in this article, “Do train drivers ever get lost?” the answer (at least for rapid transit / commuter systems) is definitely “yes”. Depending on the system, it is either the operator’s / engineer’… --- ## [wtf is a wood chuck?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/wtf-is-a-wood-chuck/270791)
**Author:** [@t-keela](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/t-keela)\ **Replies:** 22\ **Last updated:** [February 28, 2013, 11:18pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/wtf-is-a-wood-chuck/270791 "2013-02-28T23:18:45Z")
In this article \*\*Uncle Cecil \*\* answers the question. How much wood would a woodchuck chuck, if a woodchuck could chuck wood? His answer is obvious of course. Now correct me if I am wrong but IIRC the proper respon… --- ## [aluminum vs Saran Wrap](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/aluminum-vs-saran-wrap/651532)
**Author:** [@pplepic](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pplepic)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [February 27, 2013, 6:28pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/aluminum-vs-saran-wrap/651532 "2013-02-27T18:28:56Z")
This subject is obviously far too heavy for one of the teeming millions like me to weigh in on. Luckily for me, I don’t have to worry because I’m so thick-headed that X-Rays and such can’t possibly penetrate my skull. :s… --- ## [Is it illegal to take a newborn home from the hospital without naming it first?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/is-it-illegal-to-take-a-newborn-home-from-the-hospital-without-naming-it-first/649718)
**Author:** [@ojones01](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/ojones01)\ **Replies:** 25\ **Last updated:** [February 27, 2013, 3:02am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/is-it-illegal-to-take-a-newborn-home-from-the-hospital-without-naming-it-first/649718 "2013-02-27T03:02:21Z")
There are cultures where, due to high infant mortality rates, children are not named until after their first birthday. ETA: Link to column: Is it illegal to take a newborn home from the hospital without naming it first?… --- ## [The right to bear arms](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/the-right-to-bear-arms/650172)
**Author:** [@Mijin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Mijin)\ **Replies:** 21\ **Last updated:** [February 27, 2013, 12:43am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/the-right-to-bear-arms/650172 "2013-02-27T00:43:51Z")
On Cecil’s column What does “The right to bear arms” really mean? I feel he handwaves the question of the continuing legal relevance of the second amendment: A constitution establishes the fundamental principles by wh… --- ## [Hockey shields/masks](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hockey-shields-masks/651076)
**Author:** [@Powers](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Powers)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [February 25, 2013, 7:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hockey-shields-masks/651076 "2013-02-25T19:24:53Z")
In it, Cecil claims that “Studies have found hockey players wearing only upper-face protection get injured more than those wearing full face masks, and also more likely to engage in illegal behavior.” I’d be curious t… --- ## [Why longer vacation times?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-longer-vacation-times/650793)
**Author:** [@waddlingeagle](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/waddlingeagle)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [February 25, 2013, 5:02pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-longer-vacation-times/650793 "2013-02-25T17:02:01Z")
re: Do Americans get less vacation than people in other developed countries? - The Straight Dope There was considerable public debate in most countries when they adopted longer mandatory vacations. Those in favor always… --- ## [Uses for Tor and Darkwebs?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/uses-for-tor-and-darkwebs/650505)
**Author:** [@solosam](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/solosam)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [February 25, 2013, 4:43am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/uses-for-tor-and-darkwebs/650505 "2013-02-25T04:43:45Z")
After reading Cecil’s recent article on Tor and Darkwebs, I decided to check it out. As promised, it appears full of drugs, script kiddies, and child porn. I also saw a bunch of revolutionary/anarchist/criminal wannabe… --- ## [Fire in the hole!](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/fire-in-the-hole/650427)
**Author:** [@Punoqllads](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Punoqllads)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [February 24, 2013, 7:45pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/fire-in-the-hole/650427 "2013-02-24T19:45:52Z")
Column: Have virgins ever been tossed into volcanoes to appease the gods? - The Straight Dope How many folks besides me immediately thought of Monty Python? --- ## [Why were dinosaurs so big?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-were-dinosaurs-so-big/648208)
**Author:** [@Indian](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Indian)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [February 21, 2013, 3:15pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/why-were-dinosaurs-so-big/648208 "2013-02-21T15:15:19Z")
Link to Cecil’s Column from 1994. Roger Benson co-authored a study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B in 2012. “Several aspects of dinosaurian biology may have allowed them to obtain larger maximum … --- ## [Do crime scene investigators really draw a chalk line around the body?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-crime-scene-investigators-really-draw-a-chalk-line-around-the-body/650936)
**Author:** [@Elendil\_s\_Heir](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Elendil_s_Heir)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [February 21, 2013, 2:47am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/do-crime-scene-investigators-really-draw-a-chalk-line-around-the-body/650936 "2013-02-21T02:47:34Z")
Nothing to add but Rodney Dangerfield’s old joke: “My wife is so bad in bed, after we have sex I draw a chalk outline around her.” --- ## [Militias well regulated or otherwise](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/militias-well-regulated-or-otherwise/649692)
**Author:** [@Gorbag](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Gorbag)\ **Replies:** 49\ **Last updated:** [February 20, 2013, 3:48pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/militias-well-regulated-or-otherwise/649692 "2013-02-20T15:48:12Z")
I’m surprised Cecil seems to have missed the obvious interpretation of the phrase ‘well regulated’ at the time the constitution was written - it meant not ‘having correct restrictions’ but ‘well practiced’. And Jefferson… --- ## [Magdalene Asylum prisoners demand apology](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/magdalene-asylum-prisoners-demand-apology/650850)
**Author:** [@Washoe](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Washoe)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [February 20, 2013, 2:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/magdalene-asylum-prisoners-demand-apology/650850 "2013-02-20T14:05:51Z")
It’s about time, I’d say. Former Magdalene Asylum prisoners have demanded an apology from the state. --- ## [CFL vs The Devil](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/cfl-vs-the-devil/650017)
**Author:** [@NJ-jr](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/NJ-jr)\ **Replies:** 21\ **Last updated:** [February 18, 2013, 5:27pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/cfl-vs-the-devil/650017 "2013-02-18T17:27:10Z")
While the pro’s/cons stated are basically sound, a couple of things need more discussion. First, at present with an outside temp in the 30’s, I LIKE to have heat coming from my lamps. Not terribly cheap, but light and … --- ## [Hitlers gun control quote](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hitlers-gun-control-quote/644829)
**Author:** [@kfergason](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/kfergason)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [February 18, 2013, 3:06pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/hitlers-gun-control-quote/644829 "2013-02-18T15:06:18Z")
I was doing some research and found your article on the Hitler gun control quote that has been around for years. It seems there is no definitive source for it still. I have not seen this mentioned and I don’t know if i… --- ## [Masaya Volcano sacrifices?](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/masaya-volcano-sacrifices/650402)
**Author:** [@EclipseMN](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/EclipseMN)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [February 18, 2013, 2:09am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/masaya-volcano-sacrifices/650402 "2013-02-18T02:09:21Z")
I was a bit disappointed at Cecil’s answer today, as it didn’t mention the Masaya volcano. According to a PBS series called “Life on Fire”, there were sacrifices there when it was when first seen by Spanish conquistador… [Previous page](https://boards.straightdope.com/c/comments-on-cecils-columns-staff-reports/7.md?page=47) [Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/c/comments-on-cecils-columns-staff-reports/7.md?page=49)