The fourth Earl of Sandwich made two distinct contributions to American life. His incompetence as First Lord of the Admiralty during the Revolutionary War contributed to our independence. And his day spent gambling in 1762 led to a novel invention: he put meat between slices of bread and ate it, a form of food subsequently named for him. Why is the sandwich so popular? Because it's so fast.

recently reported that Wendy's is setting the pace for fast food restaurants, with an average of 150.3 seconds between the time you order your food and the time you receive it. McDonald's is 16.7 seconds slower, but promises to catch up. We Americans want everything, right now.

I aim to please. So this Friday and next, we'll survey 200 years of Western thought. Fasten your keyboards.