Books matching: role of the humanities
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- #1
Save:A bracing, controversial classic of intellectual criticism - essential reading if you’re interested in the debates around education and culture, but be ready for plenty of philosophical fireworks and some old-school grumpiness.
Allan Bloom's 'The Closing of the American Mind' is a thought-provoking exploration of the crisis in American education, focusing on the decline of intellectual standards and the rise of relativism in universities. Bloom passionately argues for a return to liberal arts education and the study of classic texts to cultivate a love of truth and a passion for living a good life. Through his critical analysis, Bloom delves into the evolution of the university system, the purpose of education, and the importance of philosophy in shaping a meaningful life.
I used to think that young Americans began whatever education they were to get at the age of eighteen, that their early lives were spiritually empty and that they arrived at the university clean slate...April 1987•398 pages A thought-provoking, beautifully written essay collection - especially rewarding for writers, Morrison enthusiasts, and deep thinkers on race, identity, and literature.
'The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations' by Toni Morrison delves into various topics such as the importance of the humanities, the black experience, and the art of writing. Morrison creatively depicts the reality around slavery, discrimination, and black stereotypes, aiming to reclaim the narrative and redefine the meaning of being black in America. Through a blend of essays, stories, and journal entries, readers are taken on a journey that offers powerful insights and nuggets of wisdom, urging them to reflect, think, and apply the lessons found within the compilation.
Some have God’s words; others have songs of comfort for the bereaved. If I can pluck up courage here, I would like to speak directly to the dead—the September dead. Those children of ancestors born in...February 2019•368 pages- #3
Save:A fun, eye-opening primer on why we’re wired to always want more - and how understanding this can actually help us find some peace. Worth your time if you’re curious about what really drives human behavior.
The Molecule of More by Daniel Z Lieberman and Michael E Long explores the powerful influence of dopamine on human behavior. It delves into how this chemical drives our desire for creativity, success, and even love, while also revealing the dangers of chasing endless satisfaction. The book is structured around a variety of studies that highlight the role of dopamine in addiction, motivation, and productivity, using real-life examples to illustrate its impact.
Written in accessible language, the book presents complex ideas in a straightforward manner, making it a pleasant read for those interested in psychology and neuroscience. The authors provide practical insights into achieving balance in life, suggesting that mindfulness and appreciation of the present can help counteract dopamine's often detrimental effects. Overall, Lieberman and Long succeed in enlightening readers about dopamine's dual role as both a driving force for human advancement and a potential source of personal dissatisfaction.
August 2018 - #4
Save:A beautifully written, layered exploration of race, class, and love, Tar Baby is quintessentially Morrison - challenging, poetic, and rewarding for those ready to dive deep.
Tar Baby by Toni Morrison is a novel set on a Caribbean island, focusing on the interactions between a wealthy white American couple, their Black servants, and a mysterious sailor who disrupts their lives. The story delves into themes of race, class, gender, and family dynamics, with a complex narrative structure that weaves together the characters' struggles and relationships. Morrison's writing style is described as poetic, with vivid descriptions and deep exploration of social issues such as racial boundaries and cultural identity.
THE END of the world, as it turned out, was nothing more than a collection of magnificent winter houses on Isle des Chevaliers. When laborers imported from Haiti came to clear the land, clouds and fis...March 1981•334 pages - #5
Save:A moving, classic Asimov novella that combines big ideas about consciousness and humanity with genuine emotional punch - recommended for SF fans who appreciate a thoughtful, character-focused narrative.
'The Bicentennial Man' by Isaac Asimov is a collection of science fiction stories, with the titular story focusing on a robot named Andrew Martin who aspires to become more human. The book delves into the themes of artificial intelligence, humanity, and the ethical implications of creating sentient beings. Asimov's writing style is praised for its ability to make readers question the boundaries between human and machine, while also exploring complex moral dilemmas in a futuristic setting.
1976•217 pages - #6
Save:A charming and feather-light cozy mystery that swaps gore for cuteness, Shady Hollow is perfect for curling up with a cup of tea - especially if you love your mysteries a little quirky and your detectives a little furry.
'Shady Hollow' is a cozy mystery set in a woodland village inhabited by anthropomorphic creatures. The peaceful town is disrupted when one of the residents is murdered, leading to an investigation by the town deputy, a bear, and a local news reporter, a fox. The plot unfolds with intriguing twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they follow the characters' adventures in solving the mystery. The writing style blends humor and suspense, creating a light-hearted yet compelling read that transports readers to a charming world where animals take on human-like qualities.
The book successfully combines elements of a traditional cozy mystery with a unique setting and a diverse cast of imaginative characters. Readers are drawn into the story through the charming and quirky interactions between the woodland creatures, adding a whimsical touch to the murder investigation. The narrative is both entertaining and engaging, offering a delightful escape into a world where animals navigate mysteries and relationships in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.
2015•216 pages - #7
Save:A gripping, science-heavy sci-fi adventure with relentless suspense - perfect for fans of classic alien-planet stories and pulse-pounding survival drama.
The Legacy of Heorot by Larry Niven, Jerry Pournelle, and Steven Barnes is a science fiction novel set on an alien planet where Earth colonizers face unexpected challenges. The story revolves around the survival of the colonists as they battle indigenous fauna and navigate through a hostile ecosystem. The plot is filled with suspense, action, and elements of horror, making it a thrilling adventure for readers. The writing style is described as science fiction that reads like science fact, with well-developed characters and a rich, deep background that adds depth to the narrative.
He politely busied himself, adjusting the rangefinder on his camera. After months on Avalon he still found the shadows too sharp and the sunlight too blue, subtle things, noticed only when he used fam...1987•415 pages - #8
Save:A tense, unputdownable YA dystopian sci-fi perfect for fans of survival stories and creepy monsters - just don’t expect every twist to surprise you.
In the book "In the After" by Demitria Lunetta, the story revolves around a post-apocalyptic world where a young girl named Amy navigates a dangerous landscape filled with deadly creatures known as Them. Amy's survival instincts kick in as she takes care of a toddler she names Baby, forming a unique bond through their own sign language. The plot unfolds with suspense and tension as Amy and Baby face challenges, encounters with other survivors, and the discovery of a new settlement called New Hope. Secrets, twists, and a blend of action-packed scenes keep readers engaged as they follow Amy's journey of survival and discovery in a world overrun by monsters.
All the warnings I remember from horror movies are wrong. Monsters do not rule the night, waiting patiently to spring from the shadows. They hunt during the day, when the light is good and their visio...June 2013•469 pages - #9
Save:An irresistibly engrossing sequel that outshines the first - rich in myth, character growth, and steamy romance. Perfect for mythology lovers who appreciate depth and emotion in their retellings.
'Destroyer of Light' by Rachel Alexander is a captivating continuation of the Hades and Persephone myth, where Persephone evolves into a powerful goddess and the relationship between the two protagonists deepens. The book is praised for its engaging plot, filled with action and intrigue, keeping readers eagerly flipping pages to uncover what happens next. Alexander's writing style is commended for its smooth flow, meticulous research on ancient Greek myths, and vivid descriptions that bring the Underworld to life.
Indigo was the color of mourning, she thought. Mourning was the unwillingness to accept that the time spent above was a fleeting moment in the journey of the soul from mortal to shade and back again....March 2016•492 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hades & Persephone ) - #10
Save:A masterful and haunting collection: brilliant, challenging, and essential for fans of thoughtful, darker science fiction.
'Her Smoke Rose Up Forever' by James Tiptree Jr. is a collection of bleak and twisty science fiction tales that delve into profound issues while showcasing the author's unique perspective. The stories cover themes such as femicide, gender roles, sexuality, and the inevitability of death, all presented in a thought-provoking and emotionally impactful manner. Tiptree's writing style is described as sophisticated, deep, and sometimes incomprehensible yet achingly emotional, rewarding readers with layers of meaning upon re-reading.
Jilshat pushed the heavy cargo loader as fast as she dared through the darkness, praying that she would not attract the attention of the Terran guard under the floodlights ahead. The last time she pas...1985•516 pages
