Riva Tez: Becoming A Free Thinker

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Oct 18, 2023

Riva Tez, a free-thinking writer with a passion for philosophy and poetry, dives into the depths of consciousness and creativity. She critiques modern media consumption, advocating for deep reading and introspection. Riva discusses the significance of authenticity in creative expression and the role of emotional depth in writing. Emphasizing the balance between subtlety and maximalism in art, she explores Istanbul's cultural tapestry as a metaphor for blending ideas. Listeners will feel inspired to embrace their individuality and challenge societal norms.

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INSIGHT

Rilke's Ecstasy

Rilke finds ecstasy in everyday objects, seeing a representation of beauty in everything.
This ability to find beauty in subtlety is a key part of his appeal.

ANECDOTE

Underworld Concert vs. Katy Perry

Riva Tez attended an Underworld concert and was captivated by the performers' subtle movements.
She contrasts this with the over-the-top theatrics of modern performers like Katy Perry.

INSIGHT

Deep Reading and Memorization

David Perell discusses the value of deep reading and memorization, using a friend's deep biblical knowledge as an example.
Repetitive engagement with texts reveals subtleties and deepens understanding.

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Tropic of Cancer

Henry Miller

Published in 1934, 'Tropic of Cancer' is a novel that blends autobiography and fiction, detailing Henry Miller's experiences as a struggling writer in Paris. The book is characterized by its stream-of-consciousness style and explicit descriptions of sexual encounters, poverty, and the bohemian lifestyle. It was initially banned in the US and UK due to its content but later became a significant work in American literature, influencing the development of erotica and modern literary forms. The novel explores themes of human condition, loneliness, and the decay of civilization, reflecting Miller's unique and often provocative writing style[1][2][5].

The two cultures

C. P. Snow

In 'The Two Cultures', C. P. Snow argues that Western society is split into two distinct cultures: the scientific culture and the literary or intellectual culture. He contends that this division hampers the ability of society to address global problems effectively. Snow criticizes the British educational system for favoring the humanities over scientific education, which he believes has hindered the UK's ability to compete in a scientifically driven world. He also discusses the gap between rich and poor nations and advocates for a more balanced education system that integrates both scientific and literary knowledge. The book sparked significant controversy and discussion upon its publication and remains influential in debates about education and cultural divides[2][3][5].

The Aeneid

Virgil

The Aeneid, written by Virgil between 29 and 19 BC, is a monumental work of classical literature. It follows the journey of Aeneas, a Trojan hero, as he navigates from the ruins of Troy to Italy, where he is destined to found the city of Lavinium, a precursor to Rome. The poem is divided into 12 books, with the first six detailing Aeneas' wanderings and the second six describing the war in Italy against the Latins. The epic incorporates various legends and mythological elements, glorifying traditional Roman virtues and legitimizing the Julio-Claudian dynasty. It explores themes such as duty, fate, and the relationship between the individual and society, and has had a profound influence on Western literature[2][3][4].

The Odyssey

Homer

The Odyssey, attributed to Homer, is an ancient Greek epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. The poem explores Odysseus's encounters with various mythical creatures, divine interventions, and natural challenges. Upon his return to Ithaca, he must confront the suitors who have been vying for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage. With the help of his son Telemachus and the goddess Athena, Odysseus devises a plan to defeat the suitors and reclaim his throne. The poem is a reflection on human nature, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions, and it remains a crucial component of ancient Greek literature and Western cultural heritage.

Atlas Shrugged

Ayn Rand

Published in 1957, 'Atlas Shrugged' is Ayn Rand's magnum opus and her longest novel. The story is set in a dystopian United States where increasingly burdensome laws and regulations strangle innovation and productivity. The plot follows Dagny Taggart, a railroad executive, and Hank Rearden, a steel magnate, as they struggle against 'looters' who exploit their work. A mysterious figure named John Galt leads a strike of productive individuals, persuading them to abandon their companies and disappear. The novel culminates with Galt's three-hour radio speech explaining his philosophy of Objectivism, which emphasizes rational self-interest, individual rights, and the importance of the human mind. The book explores themes of capitalism, property rights, and the failures of governmental coercion, presenting a provocative vision of a society in collapse and the potential for a new capitalist society based on Galt's principles.

Understanding media

The Extensions of Man

Marshall McLuhan

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].

Max Weber's works on the Protestant work ethic

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Max Weber

Max Weber's work on the Protestant ethic is a cornerstone of sociological thought. He argued that the values and beliefs of Protestantism, particularly Calvinism, played a significant role in the development of capitalism. Weber's analysis focused on the concept of predestination and its impact on individual behavior, emphasizing the importance of hard work, frugality, and worldly success as signs of divine favor. His work sparked considerable debate and continues to influence discussions on the relationship between religion, economics, and social change. Weber's meticulous research and insightful analysis have made his work a classic in the field of sociology.

Codex Sinaiticus

Ulrich Johannes Schneider

The Death of the West

How Dying Populations and Immigrant Invasions Imperil Our Country and Civilization

Patrick J. Buchanan

The book argues that Western civilization is in decline due to collapsing birth rates in Europe and the U.S., coupled with population explosions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Buchanan uses United Nations population statistics to support his claims and argues that uncontrolled immigration and the rise of a counter-culture are eroding traditional Western values and threatening American democracy. He also critiques the cultural elite and the impact of the 1960s cultural revolution on American society[1][2][5].

Deceit, desire, and the novel

René Girard

The Complete Works of Shakespeare

William Shakespeare

This volume includes all of Shakespeare's comedies, histories, tragedies, and complete poems. The works are often categorized into comedies such as 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Twelfth Night', histories like 'Henry IV' and 'Henry V', tragedies including 'Hamlet', 'Macbeth', and 'Romeo and Juliet', and his complete poems such as the 154 sonnets and other narrative poems like 'Venus and Adonis' and 'The Rape of Lucrece'. Different editions may include collaborative works and varying editorial notes.

Works of William of Ockham

Philosophical, Theological, and Political Writings

William of Ockham

William of Ockham's works are renowned for their influence on medieval thought, particularly in the areas of logic, physics, and theology. His writings include significant contributions to the development of nominalism and the separation of church and state. His most famous principle, Occam's Razor, remains a cornerstone of logical reasoning.

Harassment Architecture

null

Mark Majer

The immortalist

Alan Harrington

In 'The Immortalist', Alan Harrington presents a bold argument for achieving immortality through scientific advancements, critiquing religious and philosophical perspectives that accept mortality. He advocates for a concerted effort to extend human lifespan, drawing parallels with ambitious projects like the Apollo missions. The book delves into the implications of immortality on human society and existence.

Abbottena's Kind of Medicine

Abbottena

No information available.

Works by F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald

A Collection of Novels and Short Stories

F. Scott Fitzgerald

Zelda Fitzgerald

This collection would likely include F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpieces like 'The Great Gatsby' and 'Tender Is the Night', alongside Zelda's 'Save Me the Waltz'. Their works often explore themes of love, class, and the American Dream during the Jazz Age.

Daniel Wallace's Works on New Testament Textual Criticism

A Scholarly Defense of the New Testament Manuscript Tradition

Daniel B. Wallace

Daniel Wallace is a leading expert in New Testament textual criticism. His work includes courses and resources that delve into the manuscript tradition of the New Testament, discussing its reliability and the process of textual criticism. He has also founded the Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts to digitize Greek manuscripts.

The Works of Euripides

A Collection of Greek Tragedies

Euripides

This collection includes some of Euripides' most famous works, such as *Medea*, *Hippolytus*, and *The Children of Heracles*. These plays are celebrated for their exploration of human suffering, the role of the gods, and the complexities of female characters. The Loeb Classical Library edition offers a six-volume set of his plays, providing a rich insight into ancient Greek tragedy.

Rainer Maria Rilke's Poetry

A Collection of Works

Rainer Maria Rilke

Rainer Maria Rilke's poetry is renowned for its depth and exploration of human existence. His notable works include *Duino Elegies* and *Sonnets to Orpheus*, which delve into themes of love, death, and the human condition. Rilke's poetry is characterized by its mystical and introspective nature, often exploring the complexities of life and the universe.

Charles Bukowski's Works

A Collection of Notable Novels and Poetry

Charles Bukowski

Charles Bukowski's writing often explores themes of alcoholism, relationships, and the struggles of everyday life through his semi-autobiographical characters. Notable works include novels like 'Post Office' and 'Factotum', as well as poetry collections such as 'Burning in Water, Drowning in Flame'. His writing is characterized by its raw honesty and dark humor.

The complete works of Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche

This collection includes seminal works such as 'Thus Spake Zarathustra,' 'Beyond Good and Evil,' 'The Twilight of the Idols,' 'Ecce Homo,' 'Human, All Too Human,' and 'On the Genealogy of Morals.' These texts explore Nietzsche's philosophical ideas on morality, culture, and individualism, offering a deep dive into his intellectual evolution.