Isolation vs Pursuing Passions in Where the Crawdads Sing

by Angelica WerthArt & CultureFeb 26, 2025

Many dangers lurk in the marshes of 1950s North Carolina—among them, the criminals who hide there. Kya Clark’s father, an abusive drunk, is one such criminal. When his wife decides she can’t take it anymore and leaves, four of their five children follow, until at last only ten-year-old Kya is left. At first, her dad is around sometimes; he teaches her to drive their boat and to fish, and provides a pittance for their groceries. But eventually, he leaves too, and Kya is left all alone.

On Solid Ground

On Solid Ground is the hub for content from OSI fellows and affiliates, along with announcements about OSI’s programs and events. Here, you’ll find links to our team’s articles, videos, and other materials published across various platforms. And you’ll discover opportunities to support and engage with our global community.

Latest Blog Posts

Objective Standard Institute’s 2024 in Review

by Craig BiddleAnnouncements

Nov 17, 2025

OSI advanced its mission—and your values—beautifully in 2024. Here are some highlights of our projects and programs throughout the year.

Judging the West

Andrew Bernstein explores what truly defines a culture—and how to judge one with honesty and fairness.

The Capitalist Corner: Special Guest Kiyah Willis!

by Kiyah WillisPolitics & Liberty

Nov 14, 2025

Kiyah shared how she broke free from wokeness, religion, and gender ideology by “checking her premises” against reality.

Learning for Life: A User’s Guide for the Active Mind

by Eric DanielsLifestyle, Philosophy

Nov 6, 2025

How do you decide what’s worth learning in a world overflowing with knowledge? In his LevelUp talk, Eric Daniels explores how to direct your own learning to grow wiser, more capable, and more fulfilled over a lifetime.