In 'My Life as an Experiment,' A.J. Jacobs embarks on a series of eccentric and extreme lifestyle experiments. He goes undercover as a woman, lives by George Washington’s moral code, practices 'radical honesty,' outsources his life to India, and engages in other unconventional tests. Through these experiments, Jacobs seeks to understand different aspects of life, challenge societal norms, and enrich his personal growth. The book is a blend of humor and thought-provoking revelations, urging readers to question the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary realms of their own potential.
In 'The Year of Living Constitutionally', A.J. Jacobs embarks on a year-long journey to understand the U.S. Constitution by living as closely as possible to its original meaning. He engages in various adventures such as carrying an 18th-century musket, asserting his right to free speech with handwritten pamphlets, and participating in Revolutionary War reenactments. The book delves into the debates between originalism and living constitutionalism, offering insights into the Constitution's impact on modern American life and the ongoing debates about its interpretation. Jacobs' experiences highlight the benefits and challenges of adhering to 18th-century laws in the 21st century, providing a fresh and entertaining perspective on the Constitution's role in American democracy.
In this book, A.J. Jacobs embarks on a year-long experiment to live according to the Bible's rules as literally as possible. Raised in a secular Jewish family, Jacobs delves into the world of religion to understand its relevance in modern life. He follows over 700 biblical rules, from the well-known Ten Commandments to the lesser-known laws such as avoiding clothes made of mixed fibers and stoning adulterers. The book is a humorous and profound account of his journey, where he interacts with various religious groups, including Amish, Hassidic Jews, and evangelical Christians. Jacobs' experiment leads to surprising insights and personal growth, challenging his initial skepticism about religion and highlighting the complexities of biblical literalism[1][3][5].
In 'The Obstacle Is the Way', Ryan Holiday presents a framework for turning obstacles into successes. Drawing from the philosophy of Stoicism and the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Holiday outlines three disciplines: perception, action, and will. He illustrates these principles with historical anecdotes from figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant, and Steve Jobs. The book emphasizes the importance of perception in shaping one's response to obstacles, the need for intentional and creative action, and the cultivation of will to persist through challenges. Holiday argues that by adopting these Stoic principles, individuals can transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.
In this book, Thomas E. Ricks explores the educations and classical knowledge of the first four American presidents—George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. Ricks delves into how their different exposures to classical literature and philosophy, including works by Aristotle, Epicurus, and Cicero, influenced their ideals and the formation of the United States. The book follows these leaders from their youths to their adult lives, highlighting how their classical education shaped the country's constitution and government, and offers new insights into these legendary leaders.
This biography by David McCullough provides a detailed and engaging account of Harry S. Truman's life, from his early days in Missouri to his presidency. The book explores Truman's military service in World War I, his rise in politics, and his pivotal decisions as president, including the atomic bombing of Japan, the Potsdam Conference, the Marshall Plan, and the Korean War. McCullough's narrative is enriched by extensive research, including interviews with Truman's family and colleagues, and his own letters and diaries. The book portrays Truman as a courageous and determined leader who embodied 19th-century midwestern ideals of honesty and integrity[2][3][4].
This biography by David McCullough is a comprehensive and engaging account of John Adams' life. It delves into his role in the American Revolution, his presidency, and his personal life, including his enduring marriage to Abigail Adams. The book is enriched by over 1,100 surviving letters between John and Abigail Adams, providing deep insights into their private lives and the historical context of their time. McCullough's narrative spans Adams' early life, his legal career, his diplomatic missions to France, and his presidency, highlighting his integrity, honesty, and contributions to American history.
There have been few changes and additions to the United States Constitution since it was ratified in 1788, despite life being wildly different now a few centuries later. To really put the document into a modern perspective, author AJ Jacobs decided to literally live by the Constitution for a full year and documented the experience in his new book The Year of Living Constitutionally. In today’s episode, AJ spoke with Ryan about his inspiration for the book, the contradictions of the Founding Fathers, and the evolution of Presidential power.
AJ Jacobs is a New York Times Bestselling author, journalist, lecturer, host of The Puzzler podcast, and self-proclaimed “human guinea pig”. Check out his latest book The Year of Living Constitutionally!
Pick up a signed copy of AJ Jacobs’ book, The Year of Living Constitutionally at The Painted Porch
Follow AJ Jacobs on Instagram @AJJacobsInc and X @AJJacobs. Check out AJ’s podcast The Puzzler!
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