This series, written over a period of 40 years, is a detailed and engaging narrative of human history from prehistoric times to the late 18th century. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of historical events, cultural developments, and the lives of influential individuals. The Durants' approach is characterized by their attention to art, literature, music, and other aspects of culture, making history more accessible and engaging for a broad audience. Despite some criticisms for being Eurocentric and lacking in primary research, the series is praised for its thorough and personable style, making complex historical topics interesting and transparent[2][3][5].
In 'The Message', Ta-Nehisi Coates delves into the intersections of race, power, and identity through three intertwining essays. The book is part memoir, part travelogue, and part writing primer. Coates reflects on his visits to Dakar, Senegal, where he grapples with his Afrocentric roots; Columbia, South Carolina, where he examines the backlash against historical reckoning and book banning; and Palestine, where he critiques nationalist narratives and their impact on reality. The book emphasizes the urgent need to untangle destructive myths and embrace difficult truths to create a more just future.
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Mike Spooner wants to know how I came around to supporting Trump
Substack Reader wants to know if Trump’s reelection signals that we’re entering an era where “reason and common sense once again prevail.”
Michoel Stern senses that I’m becoming more isolationist, and that I don’t want America to be the world’s policeman. So what is the alternative?
Robert Odear asks if there is “an accepted metric for linguistic complexity,” and if there is one, whether linguistically complex societies also tend to be advanced societies.
Nancy wants to know if the triumph over “wokeness” represented by Trump’s election is being felt on campus.
Jonathan E. Burack wants to know why I haven’t responded to this review of Ta-Nehisi Coates’s The Message.
Pete Bradshaw asks what we think of the use of political slurs like “fascist,” “Hitler,” and “commie.”
Cara C. suggests that, while it was wrong for Democrats to use lawfare against Trump, it is acceptable for Republicans to use it against Democrats, if only to teach them a lesson.
Recorded December 1, 2024
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