s07e73 | The Orthodox Option, with David Patrick Harry

The Corpus Hermeticum is a series of sacred texts presented mostly as dialogues in which a teacher enlightens a disciple. These texts discuss various aspects of Hermetic philosophy, including the divine, the cosmos, mind, and nature. They also touch upon alchemy, astrology, and related concepts. The collection includes fifteen tractates, such as the 'Poemandres' and the 'General Sermons', which cover basic and mystical aspects of Hermeticism[4][5].

In 'Looking Backward: 2000-1887', Edward Bellamy presents a vision of a future socialist utopia through the eyes of Julian West, a young Bostonian who falls into a hypnotic sleep in 1887 and awakens in the year 2000. The novel describes a society where industry is nationally owned, goods are distributed equally, and there is no need for money, police, military, or lawyers. Bellamy's vision includes advanced technologies such as radio, television, motion pictures, and credit cards. The novel is a critical examination of 19th-century capitalism and advocates for a society based on equality, cooperation, and the brotherhood of man.

In 'Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man', Marshall McLuhan explores how different media forms influence human society and perception. He introduces the concept that 'the medium is the message', suggesting that the characteristics of the medium, rather than its content, are what truly impact society. McLuhan categorizes media into 'hot' and 'cool' types, based on the degree of audience participation required. He also discusses how media extend human senses and alter human consciousness, leading to significant social and psychic consequences. The book is a comprehensive analysis of various media, including print, radio, television, and more, and their effects on human interaction and culture[1][3][4].