Sebastian Junger on the Wonder of Existence and the Complexity of Freedom

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Jun 12, 2021

Sebastian Junger, an award-winning journalist and author of bestselling works like 'Tribe' and 'The Perfect Storm,' shares insights from his new book 'Freedom,' born from a 400-mile journey along the East Coast. He dives into the paradox of freedom within community, revealing how parenting challenges our notions of liberty. Junger reflects on life's fragility, the courage to confront challenges, and the wisdom of literature in personal growth. With a focus on cherishing life's fleeting moments, he emphasizes the importance of deep connections amidst modern distractions.

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ANECDOTE

Shot At While Backpacking

Sebastian Junger and his friends were shot at while backpacking along railroad lines.
The shooter likely wanted them to move along, demonstrating a distrust of outsiders.

INSIGHT

The Complexity of Freedom

Freedom is often presented as positive and liberating, but true freedom can require minimal human interaction.
This challenges the conventional view of freedom as a social experience.

INSIGHT

Risk Tolerance and Freedom

Individual risk tolerance is acceptable until it impacts others' safety.
Driving drunk, unlike driving without a seatbelt, endangers others and infringes upon their freedom.

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Lincoln on the Verge

Ted Widmer

Lincoln on the Verge tells the story of Abraham Lincoln's pivotal journey from Springfield to Washington in February 1861. Drawing on new research, the book reveals Lincoln's growth as a leader, his bond with the American people, and his overcoming of formidable obstacles, including an assassination attempt in Baltimore. The narrative captures the drama and tension of a nation on the brink of civil war.

Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World

Jack Weatherford

This book, written by Jack Weatherford, challenges the traditional Western view of Genghis Khan as a ruthless destroyer. Instead, it portrays Khan as a secular leader who promoted egalitarianism, religious tolerance, and free trade. The Mongol Empire, under Khan's leadership, subjugated vast lands and people, but also facilitated cultural communication, expanded trade routes, and contributed to the blossoming of civilization. Weatherford argues that the Mongols' rule was less burdensome than that of European nobility, with lighter taxes, tolerance of local customs and religions, and universal education for boys. The book also explores how the Mongols encouraged scientific advances, improved agriculture, and sponsored lucrative international trade, thereby influencing European civilization and the modern world[2][3][5].

The Stranger in the Woods

The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit

Michael Finkel

The book tells the story of Christopher Knight, a highly intelligent man who, at the age of 20, left his home in Massachusetts and disappeared into the Maine woods. For nearly three decades, he lived in solitude, surviving harsh winters and adapting to the environment by innovating methods to preserve food and water. Knight broke into nearby cabins for essential provisions but never harmed anyone. The book is based on extensive interviews with Knight and explores his reasons for escaping society, his survival techniques, and the psychological and philosophical insights he gained from his solitude. It also delves into the broader themes of solitude, community, and what constitutes a good life[1][3][4].

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

Letters of a Stoic

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Seneca the Younger

Seneca's "Letters from a Stoic" offers a personal and practical guide to Stoic philosophy. Through intimate letters to his friend Lucilius, Seneca explores various aspects of Stoic living, including managing emotions, dealing with adversity, and finding inner peace. The letters provide relatable examples and insights into Seneca's own life experiences. They offer a blend of philosophical reflection and practical advice, making them accessible and relevant to modern readers. The collection remains a timeless source of wisdom for those seeking self-improvement and a more fulfilling life.

Aesop's Fables

Aesop

Aesop's Fables are a collection of stories that have been passed down through oral tradition and later written down. These fables feature animals and other elements that take on human characteristics to convey important moral lessons. The stories cover a wide range of themes, including social, religious, and political issues, and have been used as ethical guides and educational tools for both children and adults. The fables are known for their simplicity and the profound truths they convey, making them timeless and universally relevant.

The War of Art

Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles

Steven Pressfield

In 'The War of Art', Steven Pressfield identifies the internal force of 'Resistance' that hinders creative endeavors. The book is divided into three sections: 'Resistance: Defining the Enemy', 'Combating Resistance: Turning Pro', and a final section that discusses the role of the muses and the battle between the Self and the Ego. Pressfield provides practical advice on recognizing and overcoming resistance, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and continuous work in achieving creative success.

The obstacle is the way

Ryan Holiday

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.

On Freedom

Timothy Snyder

In 'On Freedom', Timothy Snyder argues that the concept of freedom has been misunderstood in modern America. He distinguishes between negative freedom (freedom from state power) and positive freedom (the freedom to thrive and take risks for chosen futures through collective effort). Snyder draws on the work of philosophers, political dissidents, and his own experiences to identify the habits of mind and practices necessary for designing a government that allows future generations to flourish. He emphasizes the importance of traditions, institutions, and a politics of abundance, generosity, and grace. The book also critiques libertarianism, exposes injustices in the penal system, and advocates for a culture of solidarity and strong government focused on human flourishing[2][3][5].

The Road

Tom Stechschulte

Cormac McCarthy

The Road is set in a world that has been devastated by an unspecified cataclysmic event, resulting in the extinction of nearly all life on Earth. The story follows an unnamed father and his young son as they travel south along the road, carrying their meager possessions and a pistol with only two bullets. The father, suffering from a worsening respiratory condition, is determined to protect his son from the dangers of their new world, including cannibalistic marauders. Along their journey, they encounter various survivors, some of whom are cruel and others who show kindness. The novel explores themes of love, survival, and the preservation of humanity in a world devoid of hope. Ultimately, the father's health fails, and he dies, but not before ensuring his son's safety with a new family who may offer a chance for a better future[2][3][4].

Indian Givers

Jack Weatherford

In 'Indian Givers', Jack Weatherford highlights the profound impact of Native American cultures on the modern world. The book covers contributions such as the influence on democratic institutions, the introduction of new foods like potatoes and tomatoes, and advancements in medicine. Weatherford also discusses how these contributions have often been overlooked despite their transformative effects on global society.

Tribe

On Homecoming and Belonging

Sebastian Junger

In 'Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging', Sebastian Junger delves into the human desire for community and belonging. Drawing from history, psychology, and anthropology, Junger examines why many individuals, including combat veterans, often feel a stronger sense of belonging in tribal or wartime environments than in modern society. He argues that the lack of community in affluent societies can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, while disasters and wars can paradoxically bring people together and foster a sense of unity. The book challenges the notion that modern society is superior to tribal societies, highlighting the benefits of egalitarianism and community found in the latter. Junger also discusses how the absence of these communal bonds can affect veterans returning from war and suggests that societal changes could help reintegrate them and improve overall societal well-being.

1984

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George Orwell

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.

On today’s episode of the podcast Ryan talks to author and filmmaker Sebastian Junger about his new book Freedom which details his 400 mile journey along the railroad lines of the American East Coast, how the experience of having children challenges your notions of freedom, how the fragility of life reveals a wonderment at existence, and more.

Sebastian Junger is the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of The Perfect Storm, War, and Tribe. As an award-winning journalist, a contributing editor to Vanity Fair and a special correspondent at ABC News, he has covered major international news stories around the world. Junger is also a documentary filmmaker whose debut film "Restrepo" was nominated for an Academy Award and won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.

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