Books matching: traditional beliefs
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Daniel C. Dennett's 'Darwin's Dangerous Idea: Evolution and the Meanings of Life' delves into the implications of evolution for philosophy and theology, presenting a materialist account of natural design and challenging the need for supernatural elements in the process of evolution. The book explores the nature of evolution and life from a fundamental perspective, offering a dense yet fascinating examination of topics ranging from physics and biology to artificial intelligence and neuroscience. Dennett's engaging and polemical style, coupled with his philosophical insights and grasp of science, provides readers with a thought-provoking journey through the philosophical implications of evolution by natural selection.
'Darwin's Dangerous Idea' is a comprehensive exploration of the theory of evolution, touching upon topics such as adaptationism, skyhooks, and mimetics, while presenting a clear and insightful perspective on Darwinism and its detractors. Dennett's book stands out for its brilliant exposition of the theory of evolution, shedding light on the simplicity and power of Darwin's ideas while addressing misconceptions and providing a thought-provoking analysis of evolution's impact on philosophy and ethics. The book's playful examination of evolutionary theory, combined with Dennett's philosophical approach and engaging writing style, offers readers a captivating and enlightening journey through the complexities of evolution and natural selection.
We used to sing a lot when I was a child, around the campfire at summer camp, at school and Sunday school, or gathered around the piano at home. One of my favorite songs was "Tell Me Why." (For those ...- #2
Save:'Wife of the Gods' by Kwei Quartey is a murder mystery set in Ghana, following Detective Inspector Darko Dawson as he investigates the death of Gladys Mensah in a village near Ho. The story delves into the clash between traditional African beliefs and modern urban convictions, as Dawson navigates through rural communities like Ketanu. The writing style incorporates words from local dialects and regional languages seamlessly, providing an immersive experience for readers. The plot unfolds with elements of police procedural, inner demons driving characters to harsh actions, and a darker feel than typical cozy mysteries, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of African cultures meeting modern trends.
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Save:The plot revolves around Bilal, a secular Muslim living in an English village, who is tasked with fulfilling his dying mother's wish of building a mosque in the village. This decision stirs up prejudice and division among the villagers, leading to conflicts and challenges for Bilal and his family. The story delves into themes of tradition, beliefs, grief, and community dynamics, with a narrative style that skillfully explores bias, traditions, and cultural differences.
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Save:'Arrow of God' by Chinua Achebe follows the encroachment of British colonialism on two small Igbo villages, exploring the complexities of interactions between white men, tribal chiefs, and others with subtlety and humor. The book delves into the conflict between the traditional African tribal society and the influence of the white man and Christianity, focusing on the Chief Priest of the tribe, Ezeulu, and his struggle to maintain his power as the colonial structures become more prevalent.
The narrative skillfully portrays the clash of cultures, the impact of colonialism on traditional ways of life, and the tensions between the native people and the colonists. Through vivid storytelling, Achebe weaves a tale of tragedy, power struggles, and the inevitable changes brought about by the arrival of the white man in early 20th-century Nigeria.
This was the third nightfall since he began to look for signs of the new moon. He knew it would come today but he always began his watch three days early because he must not take a risk. In this seaso...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The African Trilogy ) - #5
Save:'Wolf Totem' by Jiang Rong is a semi-autobiographical novel set during the Cultural Revolution in China, focusing on a young Chinese student named Chen Zhen who immerses himself in the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols in Inner Mongolia. Through his experiences, the book explores the intricate relationship between humans, wolves, and the grassland ecosystem, highlighting themes of preservation, cultural clash, and environmental sustainability. The narrative delves into the struggles of maintaining a delicate balance between tradition and modernization, as well as the impact of political ideologies on nature and indigenous cultures.
The book paints a vivid picture of life on the Mongolian grasslands, capturing the beauty and harshness of nature while delving into the deep connection between the nomadic tribes and the wolves that play a crucial role in maintaining ecological equilibrium. Through Chen Zhen's journey of discovery and conflict, readers are exposed to a rich tapestry of Mongolian culture, environmental issues, and the complex interplay between tradition and progress, all set against the backdrop of a changing political landscape during a tumultuous period in Chinese history.
As Chen Zhen looked through the telescope from his hiding place in the snow cave, he saw the steely gaze of a Mongolian grassland wolf. The fine hairs on his body rose up like porcupine quills, virtua... - #6
Save:'Outliers: The Story of Success' by Malcolm Gladwell delves into the makings of success, exploring the concept that success is not solely based on ability but also on external circumstances such as timing, opportunities, luck, and cultural backgrounds. Through compelling stories and examples, Gladwell challenges the traditional beliefs about success, highlighting the role of factors like practice hours, family background, and societal influences in shaping exceptional individuals. is praised for its thought-provoking insights on why some people excel while others lead ordinary lives, offering a fresh perspective on the true determinants of success.
One warm, spring day in May of 2007, the Medicine Hat Tigers and the Vancouver Giants met for the Memorial Cup hockey championships in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Tigers and the Giants were the t... - #7
Save:'Warrior and Witch' is a sequel to 'Warrior' in the 'Doppelganger' series by Marie Brennan. The story follows Mirei, a powerful witch who has control over void magic after merging with Mirage. The laws governing Starfall have been changed, and now no witch is allowed to kill a witch child's doppelganger. However, a faction of witches disagrees with this change and starts hunting down surviving doppelganger children. Mirei is sent on a quest to find these warrior doppelgangers and bring them to safety. The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged until the end.
The writing style of Marie Brennan in 'Warrior and Witch' is described as improved and engaging compared to the first book in the series. The story is told from multiple points of view, adding depth to the narrative and allowing readers to explore different characters' perspectives. The book delves into the consequences of Mirei's actions and how they affect the magical community and a group of assassins. Overall, the book is a traditional fantasy with a mix of magic and politics, offering a satisfying conclusion to the duology.
(Also, see 6 recommendations for the series Doppelganger ) 'From Bacteria to Bach and Back - The Evolution of Minds' by Daniel C. Dennett takes readers on a journey through the evolution of minds, exploring topics such as consciousness, natural selection, and the origins of society. Dennett presents his views on how the mind is a product of the brain's workings, shaped by natural selection and random mutations over time. Despite the book's meandering style and academic presentation, it offers insights into the complexities of consciousness and the interconnectedness of genetic and cultural evolution.
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Save:Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's 'The River Between' is a powerful novel that delves into the conflicts brought about by colonialism. The story is set in a Gigukuyu country where the presence of the white man creates division within communities, eroding traditions and sparking tension between villages. The narrative follows the clash between the Christian faction led by Joshua, who vehemently opposes cultural traditions, and the group led by Kaboni, advocating for the preservation of their heritage. Caught in the middle is Waiykami, who attempts to bridge the gap between the two opposing ideologies, seeking unity amidst the turmoil of conflicting beliefs and values.
The book presents a riveting narration of cultural turmoil, exploring themes of tradition, modernization, and the impact of education on societal conflicts. Ngugi Wa Thiong'o's writing style is described as clear, direct, and thought-provoking, offering a profound insight into the struggles faced by the characters as they navigate the complexities of colonial influence and cultural identity.
The two ridges lay side by side. One was Kameno, the other was Makuyu. Between them was a valley. It was called the valley of life. Behind Kameno and Makuyu were many more valleys and ridges, lying wi... - #10
Save:'Myths to Live By' by Joseph Campbell explores the enduring power of universal myths that influence our daily lives. Campbell delves into the myth-making process from the primitive past to the present, emphasizing the common denominators in myths and religions that are no longer exclusive to a single people or region. He discusses the interconnectedness of myths and religions, highlighting how understanding these common themes can help fulfill human potential globally. The book may seem disjointed to some readers, but each essay offers informative and fascinating insights into the mythic and folkloric realms, making it a valuable reference for those interested in these subjects.
The book reaffirms the heroic nature of our lives, providing a sense of connectivity and belonging in the world. It encourages readers to embrace difficult decisions, assuring them that their paths have been walked before. Campbell's writing style is described as engaging and informative, despite occasional repetitions, making the book a compelling read for anyone interested in mythology and folklore.
I was sitting the other day at a lunch counter that I particularly enjoy, when a youngster about twelve years old, arriving with his school satchel, took the place at my left. Beside him came a younge...
