MUST WATCH | Screams Before Silence5/1/2024
“The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.” ― Albert Einstein Sunday Reads...4/28/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: “Human beings are born with different capacities; if they are free, they are not equal. If they are equal, they are not free.” - Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn Sunday Reads...3/31/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: All governments suffer a recurring problem: power attracts pathological personalities. It is not that power corrupts but that it is magnetic to the corruptible. - Frank Herbert
Book Review | Fatal Discord3/31/2024
Hatching an egg, Another laid
Fatal Discord, Erasmus, Luther, and the Fight for the Western World. | Michael Massing, HarperOne (2018) 1008p. Dense, yes. Hefty, absolutely. However, neither of these qualities should be off-putting to those curious about the world we inhabit. This is not a tome merely for the academically inclined; it is much more relevant to today’s current events than its subject matter unsuspectingly suggests. To reach this relevance, the reader must slog through amazingly detailed accounts of obscure internecine battles and absorb precise delineations of a distant time. While this context density extends the journey, its travelers are provided an understanding previously only available to those with advanced medieval studies. The author's central thesis is that the break with the medieval world, which birthed the modern, is the fault line of disagreement between Martin Luther and Desiderius Erasmus. This intensely pitched divide ultimately unfolds as the division between what we now recognize as Christian humanism and Christian evangelism. Sunday Reads...3/10/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” ― Marcus Aurelius
Sunday Reads...3/3/2024
Sunday Reads...
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: It seems almost a law of human nature that it is easier for people to agree on a negative program—on the hatred of an enemy, on the envy of those better off—than on any positive task. The contrast between “we” and “they,” the common fight against those outside the group, seems to be an essential ingredient in any creed which will solidly knit together a group for common action. It is consequently always employed by those who seek, not merely support of a policy, but the unreserved allegiance of huge masses. From their point of view it has the advantage of leaving them greater freedom of action than almost any positive program. […]. - F.A. Hayek
AckmanBook Review | The Book of Charlie - The Life of Charlie White
THE BOOK OF CHARLIE: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man | Donald Von Drehle, Simon & Schuster (2023), 208p.
In this book,” Donald Von Drehle presents an enriching narrative transcending conventional biography. It's a captivating exploration of Charlie's life, an American centenarian who spans over a century of significant historical events and societal changes. This book review delves into resilience, kindness, and life's transient nature, as seen through Charlie's experiences. Von Drehle's portrayal of Charlie is not just a chronicle of a long life; it's a deep dive into human experience. The narrative beautifully intertwines the personal with the historical, shedding light on Charlie's journey against the backdrop of pivotal American epochs. From World War I to the Civil Rights Movement, Charlie's life offers an in-depth perspective on these landmark events, enriching the reader's understanding of history through someone who witnessed it firsthand. Sunday Reads...2/25/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: "People are all alike in their promises. It is only in their deeds that they differ.” - Moliere
Sunday Reads...2/18/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence: Quote of the Day: “"The more things you have, the more things you have to manage. Simplicity isn't merely cheaper, it's easier." – James Clear
REVIEW | Marcus Aurelius in Love2/13/2024
REVIEW | Marcus Aurelius in Love
MARCUS AURELIUS IN LOVE: The Letters of Marcus And Fronto | Translated & edited by Amy Richlin, The Univesity of Chicago (2006) p168.
Marcus Aurelius in Love: The Letters of Marcus and Fronto" offers a fascinating glimpse into the personal life of one of history's most esteemed philosophers, Marcus Aurelius, through a collection of correspondence with his tutor and friend, Fronto. This edition, expertly edited and translated by Amy Richlin, provides a translation of these ancient texts and a comprehensive analysis that adds depth and context to the letters exchanged between these two Roman figures. Amy Richlin's translation skillfully captures the nuances of the original Latin, making the letters accessible to a modern audience while preserving their historical and linguistic integrity. Richlin's ability to convey the emotional depth and intellectual exchange between Marcus Aurelius and Fronto is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the human side of the Stoic emperor and his relationship with his mentor. The letters are a treasure trove of emotion, philosophical reflection, and rhetorical finesse. They reveal a side of Marcus Aurelius that is seldom seen in his more famous work, "Meditations." Through these letters, readers witness the development of a deep and enduring friendship characterized by mutual respect, intellectual exchange, and genuine affection. The correspondence covers various topics, from personal health and family matters to philosophical discussions and literary critiques, offering a comprehensive picture of their relationship. Readers might be shocked - as I was - to read of Aurelius complaining of an “anxious heart, shackled by worry.” Or when he is about to experience something he longed for - return to Italy - he is nearly goofy and describes his conduct as “giddy.” Reviving this lesser-known collection of Aurelius’ writings helps round out the image of a genuinely human man of action wrestling to align his conduct with his stated moral objectives. Moreover, Richlin's introduction and commentary throughout the book are invaluable for understanding the historical and cultural context of the Roman Empire during the 2nd century. She provides detailed backgrounds on both correspondents, shedding light on their personal lives, roles within Roman society, and the philosophical and rhetorical themes pervading their letters. This context enriches the reader's appreciation of the correspondence, offering insights into the period’s education, politics, and daily life. In conclusion, this edition is a remarkable achievement that combines scholarly rigor with engaging storytelling. Amy Richlin has not only provided an accessible translation of these important historical documents but has also illuminated the complex relationship between two significant figures of the Roman Empire. Her contributions make "Marcus Aurelius in Love" an essential read for those interested in ancient history, philosophy, and the art of letter writing. Sunday Reads...2/4/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
"In this age, the mere example of nonconformity, the mere refusal to bend the knee to custom, is itself a service. Precisely because the tyranny of opinion is such as to make eccentricity a reproach, it is desirable to break through that tyranny that people should be eccentric. Eccentricity has always abounded when and where the strength of character has abounded, and the amount of eccentricity in a society has generally been proportional to the amount of genius, mental vigor, and moral courage that it contained. That so few now dare to be eccentric, marks the chief danger of the time." - John Stuart Mill
Sunday Reads...1/28/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
QUOTE OF THE DAY: "Therefore, since there is no doubt that free enterprise capitalism is superior in productive terms, the left-wing doxa has attacked capitalism, alleging matters of morality, saying – that the detractors claim – that it’s unjust. They say that capitalism is evil because it’s individualistic and that collectivism is good because it’s altruistic. Of course, with the money of others. So, they therefore advocate for social justice. But this concept, which in the developed world became fashionable in recent times, in my country has been a constant in political discourse for over 80 years. The problem is that social justice is not just, and it doesn’t contribute to general well-being." - Javier Milei
Sunday Reads...1/21/2024
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
QUOTE OF THE DAY “To whom do you award the right to decide which speech is harmful or who is the harmful speaker? To whom would you delegate the task of deciding for you what you could read?” Bonus quote: “I learned that very often the most intolerant and narrow-minded people are the ones who congratulate themselves on their tolerance and open-mindedness.” Both from the late Christopher Hitchens.
Interview | MPS & The Big Show12/20/2023
December 03rd, 202312/3/2023
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: “The reward for conformity was that everyone liked you except yourself.” – Rita Mae Brown
POEM |Thanksgiving11/23/2023
By Edgar Albert Guest
Gettin’ together to smile an’ rejoice, An’ eatin’ an’ laughin’ with folks of your choice; An’ kissin’ the girls an’ declarin’ that they Are growin’ more beautiful day after day; Chattin’ an’ braggin’ a bit with the men, Buildin’ the old family circle again; Livin’ the wholesome an’ old-fashioned cheer, Just for awhile at the end of the year. Greetings fly fast as we crowd through the door And under the old roof we gather once more Just as we did when the youngsters were small; Mother’s a little bit grayer, that’s all. Father’s a little bit older, but still Ready to romp an’ to laugh with a will. Here we are back at the table again Tellin’ our stories as women an’ men. Book Review | Finding of the Mayflower11/22/2023
THE FINDING OF THE “MAYFLOWER” | Rendel Harris, Read & Co. (1920), 58p
"The Discovery of the Mayflower" by Rendel Harris is a captivating account of how the remains of the famous ship that transported the Pilgrims to America were discovered in a quiet corner of England. As a historian and lecturer, Harris weaves a fascinating tale of detection, intrigue, and revelation that keeps readers engaged until the end. The book’s preface lifts an infamous essay from G.K. Chesterton titled “They Myth of the Mayflower,” where he notes that the Puritan Pilgrims were religiously intolerant and fled to American shores to establish a more rigid commune of intolerance. Within short order, it clashed violently with the Quakers. In 1920, Harris stumbled upon an old barn in Jordans, Buckinghamshire, which locals claimed contained timbers from the Mayflower. Intrigued, Harris began investigating the claim, using his extensive knowledge of maritime history and the Pilgrims' journey. His research led him to believe that parts of the barn were constructed using wood from the Mayflower. Book Review | THE WISDOM OF THE BULLFROG11/19/2023
"The Wisdom of the Bullfrog" is a unique and compelling guide to leadership that draws upon the lessons of the natural world to provide practical advice for leaders in any field. Author William H. McRaven is a retired Navy SEAL and former chancellor of the University of Texas system.
In the Navy SEAL tradition, a "bullfrog" refers to a senior enlisted member of a SEAL team, typically the Command Master Chief Petty Officer (CMC) or the Senior Enlisted Advisor (SEA). The term "bullfrog" is used to signify the individual's position as the leader of the enlisted personnel within the team, much like a bullfrog's role as the dominant male in a group of frogs. The title of bullfrog is earned through experience, leadership ability, and dedication to duty and is considered a mark of distinction and respect within the Navy SEAL community. It is not uncommon for a bullfrog to have served multiple tours of duty and received numerous awards and decorations for their service. Sunday Reads...11/19/2023
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: "[H]is education had had the curious effect of making things that he read and wrote more real to him than the things he saw. Statistics about agricultural laborers were the substance: any real ditcher, plowman, or farmer’s boy was the shadow…he had a great reluctance, in his work, to ever use such words as “man” or “woman.” He preferred to write about “vocational groups,” “elements,” “classes,” and “populations” for, in his own way, he believed as firmly as any mystic in the superior reality of the things that are not seen." - C.S. Lewis. Sunday Reads...11/12/2023
An irregular round-up of interesting reads. Most of these made me go "hmmmmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: “How selfish soever man may be supposed, there are evidently some principles in his nature, which interest him in the fortune of others, and render their happiness necessary to him, though he derives nothing from it, except the pleasure of seeing it.” Adam Smith, Theory of Moral Sentiments
HUNTER GATHER’S GUIDE TO THE 21st CENTURY | Heather Heying & Bret Weinstein, Swift Press, (2022), 301p.
Heather Heying and Bret Weinstein's "Hunter Gatherer's Guide to the 21st Century" offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on how humans can thrive in today's rapidly changing world. As evolutionary biologists, the authors bring a unique lens to the table, drawing upon our species' history to provide practical advice for navigating the complexities of modern life. The book is divided into four parts, tackling a distinct aspect of human existence. Part One, "Understanding Ourselves," delves into the evolutionary roots of human behavior, shedding light on why we act the way we do. From the role of dopamine in motivation to the importance of community, the authors provide a compelling explanation of our innate drives and desires. Part Two, "Navigating the World," applies the same evolutionary framework to explore how our surroundings shape our actions and decisions. Topics range from the impact of urbanization on mental health to the influence of social media on our relationships. Throughout this section, Heying and Weinstein challenge readers to question their assumptions about the world around them. In Part Three, "Building Resilience," the authors focus on strategies for cultivating individual resilience in adversity. They advocate for physical exercise, mindfulness, and creativity, all of which help us adapt to an ever-changing environment. This section also includes valuable discussions on managing stress, building meaningful relationships, and finding purpose in life. Finally, Part Four, "Rethinking Society," takes a step back to examine the larger structures that govern our society. Here, the authors critique contemporary institutions such as education, healthcare, and government while offering proposals for positive change. Their arguments are well-supported and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to rethink their assumptions about the systems that shape our lives. Sunday Reads11/5/2023
An irregular round-up of exciting reads. Most of these made me go "hmm," none of them imply concurrence:
Quote of the Day: "The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more." - Jonas Salk
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