Books matching: challenging conventional wisdom
30 result(s)
'Why We Get Fat: And What to Do About It' by Gary Taubes explores the concept that obesity is not solely caused by overeating and lack of exercise, but rather by hormonal imbalances, particularly insulin sensitivity. Taubes argues that the traditional theory of 'Calories In vs. Calories Out' is flawed and provides evidence to support his claim that a diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates is more effective for weight loss and overall health. delves into scientific research on nutrition and challenges common beliefs about weight management and healthy eating habits. Readers are encouraged to reevaluate their understanding of nutrition and consider the impact of carbohydrates on fat storage in the body.
The F.D.A. said it wants to initiate a consumer education campaign, focusing on a “calories count” message. After years of promoting a low-fat diet, it is ready to emphasize a new, but actually very o...'The Singularity is Near: When Humans Transcend Biology' by Ray Kurzweil delves into the concept of singularity, where artificial intelligence surpasses human intelligence, leading to a transformative era. Kurzweil projects a future where technology, genetics, nanotechnologies, and robotics converge to enhance human abilities, potentially leading to immortality and super intelligence. The book explores the accelerating rate of technological change, the potential benefits and risks of advancements, and the possibilities of a future where humans and machines merge.
Kurzweil presents his ideas in a mix of hardcore materialism and whimsical debates, providing a comprehensive review of ongoing research and future possibilities. Through imaginative scenarios and engaging dialogues, the author navigates complex scientific concepts in a clear and accessible manner, offering readers a glimpse into a future where technology and biology intersect to redefine human existence.
I am not sure when I first became aware of the Singularity. I’d have to say it was a progressive awakening. In the almost half century that I’ve immersed myself in computer and related technologies, I...'The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition' by Fernando Pessoa is a collection of fragmented thoughts and musings of fictional Portugese bookkeeper Bernardo Soares, one of Pessoa's heteronyms. The book is a diary-like account of Soares' existential reflections on life, literature, poetry, sensibility, and metaphysics, with no plot or story arc. Pessoa's poetic prose is described as beautiful and profound, with virtually every sentence being a gem. The book is best experienced by dipping into it over a long period of time, rather than reading it cover to cover, as it offers insights into the depths of human emotions and existential ponderings.
The writing style of 'The Book of Disquiet' is characterized by its rich expressiveness, introspective nature, and melancholic tone. Pessoa weaves together observation and introspection, creating a deeply existential and existentialist work that challenges readers to contemplate the imperfections of life and the struggle of living authentically. The book is a blend of diary, fiction, autobiography, philosophy, and poetry in prose, offering a unique reading experience that invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human emotions and the futility of longing for the impossible.
Lisbon has a certain number of eating establishments in which, on top of a respectable-looking tavern, there’s a regular dining room with the solid and homey air of a restaurant in a small trainless t...- #4
Save:'Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong' by James W. Loewen is a critique of American history textbooks that offers real history to counteract the empty platitudes found in those textbooks. delves into white Americans' relationships with Native Americans and African Americans, pointing out the discrepancies and omissions in traditional historical narratives. Loewen reviews twelve American history books, highlighting their shortcomings and the importance of teaching controversial aspects of history. The writing style is described as informative, eye-opening, and engaging, providing readers with a fresh perspective on American history.
One is astonished in the study of history at the recurrence of the idea that evil must be forgotten, distorted, skimmed over. We must not remember that Daniel Webster got drunk but only remember that ... - #5
Save:'The Deficit Myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the Birth of the People's Economy' by Stephanie Kelton challenges conventional economic beliefs, arguing that governments do not need to tax their people for money and that deficits can be beneficial. Kelton explores the idea of optimizing economic systems for human development rather than exploitation and advocates for setting priorities based on human needs. delves into Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) and its implications on government spending, monetary policy, and societal well-being.
In 2015, I took a leave of absence from my job teaching economics at the University of Missouri–Kansas City and moved to Washington, DC, to serve as the chief economist for the Democrats on the US Sen... 'The Entrepreneurial State: Debunking Public vs. Private Sector Myths' by Mariana Mazzucato delves into the intricate relationship between the public and private sectors in fostering technological innovation. The book challenges prevailing notions about the role of government in innovation, highlighting the crucial contributions made by public funding to drive breakthroughs in various industries. Through detailed examples and statistical evidence, Mazzucato argues that the government plays a vital role in not only financing but also shaping the direction of innovation, ultimately debunking myths surrounding the innovation process.
Governments have always been lousy at picking winners, and they are likely to become more so, as legions of entrepreneurs and tinkerers swap designs online, turn them into products at home and market ...In 'Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World', author Anand Giridharadas critically examines the actions of the global elite who claim to be making positive changes in the world. He challenges the notion that the wealthy can solve social problems that they themselves have contributed to, shedding light on the superficiality of their efforts and the need for structural, collective solutions. Giridharadas argues that true social change must come from organic movements, elected leaders, and legislation, rather than being led by the elites who often prioritize profit and self-enrichment over meaningful progress.
Her college mind heavy with the teachings of Aristotle and Goldman Sachs, Hilary Cohen knew she wanted to change the world. Yet she wrestled with a question that haunted many around her: How should th...- #8
Save:'When Affirmative Action Was White' by Ira Katznelson delves into the untold history of racial inequality in twentieth-century America. It highlights how deliberate policy decisions during the New Deal and the Fair Deal excluded African Americans from the benefits of social programs, perpetuating racial disparities. explores how government initiatives such as the GI Bill and Social Security Act were designed to benefit white Americans while excluding African Americans, ultimately shaping the existing wealth gaps in society.
Through a well-researched narrative, the author uncovers the systemic discrimination faced by African Americans in accessing government assistance and opportunities for economic advancement. Katznelson's writing style is informative and academic, providing a detailed account of how past government policies favored white citizens and perpetuated racial inequality in the United States. challenges the conventional narrative of affirmative action and sheds light on the historical context that has contributed to the current disparities between African Americans and whites in American society.
THE SUN HAD BEGUN its downward slope on the evening of June 4, 1965, as President Lyndon Johnson mounted the podium on the main quadrangle of Howard University, the country’s most celebrated black cen... - #9
Save:'Revolutionary Ideas' by Jonathan I. Israel challenges conventional wisdom surrounding the French Revolution by presenting a radical theory that the Terror was not a deviation but rather an inherent outcome of the Radical Enlightenment philosophers' involvement in bringing about the Revolution. Israel argues that the French Revolution was driven by the ideas of the Radical Enlightenment, leading to a transformation marked by terror, violence, and intolerance. Through meticulous detail and analysis, Israel asserts that his thesis reshapes perspectives on the ideological progression of the French Revolution.
Israel's narrative delves into the distinctions between the Moderate and Radical Enlightenment, highlighting the latter's role in shaping the Revolution towards democracy, freedom, and human rights. By examining the philosophical underpinnings of the Revolution and the involvement of key thinkers like Spinoza, Diderot, and Rousseau, Israel presents a compelling argument that challenges traditional interpretations of the French Revolution's causes and outcomes.
On November 18, 1792, more than one hundred British, Americans, and Irish in Paris gathered at White’s Hotel, also known as the British Club, to celebrate the achievements of the French Revolution. Wh... 'The Ties That Bound: Peasant Families in Medieval England' by Barbara A. Hanawalt delves into the lives of the lower classes of serfs and freemen in medieval England. It provides a depth and breadth that expands the understanding of medieval times beyond the usual focus on the high and mighty. Through meticulous research and examination of various aspects of peasant life, such as laws of inheritance, farming practices, daily meals, and dispute resolutions, the author paints a vivid picture of the joys and miseries experienced by ordinary peasants during the late Middle Ages. Hanawalt challenges conventional wisdom on English peasant life and offers interesting insights that challenge retrospective judgments.
In writing a synthetic study of the family, I have relied heavily on excellent regional and local studies, on the publications of county record societies, and on the work of antiquarians and historian...
