Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the writer. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation , a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation. The Conversation  —  I recently helped my mom sort through boxes she inherited when my grandparents passed away. One box was labeled — either ironically or genuinely — “toothpick holders and other treasures.” Inside were