Books matching: examination of human nature
24 result(s)
- #1
Save:In "Praise of Folly" by Erasmus, the Goddess of Folly delivers a speech asserting the importance of folly in human affairs through satire. The book criticizes teachings of the Church, monastic life, and societal norms as folly, while also touching on religious practices, human nature, and the pursuit of wisdom. Erasmus employs humor, sarcasm, and wit to make jests at extremes of religious beliefs and practices, presenting a critique of society and human behavior.
- #2
Save:'The Dying Animal' by Philip Roth delves into the complexities of desire, aging, and human relationships through the eyes of the protagonist, David Kepesh. The novel explores themes of mortality, love, and physical pleasure, offering a raw and unapologetic examination of human nature. Roth's writing style is described as emotionally charged, introspective, and thought-provoking, presenting a narrative that delves deep into the protagonist's struggles with the passage of time and the pursuit of relationships. The book is a revealing look at the Sexual Revolution, portraying how one intriguing character navigates colliding emotions, passion, and the inevitability of death.
- #3
Save:"Across the Universe" by Beth Revis follows the story of Amy, a teenager who chose to leave Earth behind and be cryogenically frozen with her parents to recolonize a new planet. When Amy is unfrozen before reaching the planet, she discovers a dystopian society aboard the ship Godspeed led by a tyrannical figure. With the help of Elder, the future leader of the ship, Amy leads the charge to uncover the truth, leading to plot twists and surprises that captivate the reader.
The narrative alternates between Amy and Elder's viewpoints, providing insight into their struggles and the societal divisions on the ship. As Amy and Elder navigate the challenges of the enclosed society, the plot unfolds with elements of mystery, romance, and coming of age, creating a compelling sci-fi dystopian tale that delves into themes of individuality, power dynamics, and the quest for truth.
Mom wanted me to go first. I think it was because she was afraid that after they were contained and frozen, I’d walk away, return to life rather than consign myself to that cold, clear box. But Daddy ... A Traveler from Altruria is a utopian novel by William Dean Howells that challenges the traditional narrative of the genre by having an Altrurian visitor, Mr. Homos, explore the archaic ways of American society. The novel is set in rural America and follows the interactions between the narrator, Mr. Twelvemough, and the idealistic visitor, highlighting the stark contrasts between the altruistic society of Altruria and the class-divided, capitalistic society of America. Howells' writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, presenting a critical examination of social class, wealth disparity, and human nature through the lens of a foreign perspective.
I CONFESS that with all my curiosity to meet an Altrurian, I was in no hospitable mood towards the traveler when he finally presented himself, pursuant to the letter of advice sent me by the friend wh...- #5
Save:'Blood Sport' by Robert F Jones is a surreal and creative coming of age saga that delves into the male human nature and the human condition. Set in a mythical river valley called Hassayampa, the story follows the bandit Ratanous, also known as Rat Nose, as he navigates through a world filled with rebellion against the laws of nature. The plot is described as one of the most creative and strange, with elements of fantasy that are unique and captivating, challenging traditional genre classifications.
Straw Dogs: Thoughts on Humans and Other Animals by John Gray presents a challenging view of humanity. Gray explores three philosophies of life: the religious believer, the secular humanist, and his own Darwinian nihilism. He argues that humans are not distinct from animals and that our belief in morality is a delusion. Gray believes that human overpopulation and irrational impulses will lead to our doom, questioning whether we have any special significance in the universe.
The writing style is dense and thought-provoking, prompting readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our existence. Gray draws from a wide range of philosophical, scientific, and religious sources, making his arguments both original and provocative. Though some may find his views depressing and challenging, many appreciate how the book stimulates deep reflection on human nature and our place in the world.
- #7
Save:City of Pearl by Karen Traviss is a science fiction novel that follows Environmental Hazard Enforcement officer Shan Frankland as she leads a mission to Cavanagh's Star, a planet with three separate alien societies already claiming it. The story unfolds as Shan navigates political tensions, human greed, and encounters with sentient alien beings, all while facing complex moral dilemmas and environmental challenges. The plot is rich in detail, focusing on themes of tribalism, environmentalism, and the consequences of human actions on alien worlds. Traviss weaves a gripping narrative that explores identity, ethics, and the impact of human nature in a futuristic setting filled with political intrigue and interspecies conflicts.
She loved those words. They cast a spell. They laid bare men’s souls, if you knew how to look. She looked around the administration center and in three seconds she knew the man at the desk was uninvol... - #8
Save:"Leviathan" by Thomas Hobbes is a classic work of political theory that explores human nature, society, and government. Hobbes argues for a social contract and rule by an absolute sovereign to avoid the chaos of a state of nature. The book delves into topics such as the role of government, the relationship between religion and politics, and the necessity of a strong, centralized power to maintain order in society.
Concerning the Thoughts of man, I will consider them first Singly, and afterwards in Trayne, or dependance upon one another. Singly, they are every one a Representation or Apparence, of some quality, ... - #9
Save:Well Witched by Frances Hardinge is a captivating Middle Grade adventure story that intricately weaves themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the consequences of wishes. The plot follows three children, Ryan, Josh, and Chelle, who unknowingly steal coins from a wishing well and find themselves entangled in a magical quest to grant the wishes tied to those coins. As they navigate the challenges of fulfilling these wishes, they also grapple with personal growth and understanding the complexities of human desires. The narrative, told from Ryan's perspective, seamlessly blends elements of fantasy and reality, creating a dark and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers engaged till the very end.
- #10
Save:"The End of History and the Last Man" by Francis Fukuyama delves into the idea that liberal democracy has triumphed as the final form of human government after the Cold War. Fukuyama argues that with the victory of Western Liberal Democracy, humanity has reached the end point of ideological evolution. Drawing upon the ideologies of Hegel and Marx, he presents a linear progression of human history towards the universalization of Western liberal democracy. The book is broken into five parts, providing a background on the philosophical arguments behind the end of history, discussing the triumph of reason over autocracy, and exploring the implications of liberal democracy.
Fukuyama's writing style is engaging and captivating, taking readers on a mesmerizing journey that includes tables, figures, stats, and quotes to support his theory of American democracy being the solution for the world's problems. Despite being a direct and cerebral argument rooted in early 19th-century German philosophy, Fukuyama's insights and clarity of expression make the book thought-provoking and compelling.
—Emile Fackenheim, God’s Presence in History As decent and sober a thinker as Immanuel Kant could still seriously believe that war served the purposes of Providence. After Hiroshima, all war is known ...
