Betekenisvol werk doen in een wereld die oppervlakkigheid vereert | POM S11E09

In "Het uur van de wolven" onderzoekt Giuliano da Empoli de opkomst van populisme en autoritaire leiders in de 21e eeuw. Hij analyseert de complexe factoren die bijdragen aan deze verschuivingen in de wereldpolitiek. Het boek biedt een scherpe analyse van de zwakheden van de liberale democratie en de aantrekkingskracht van autoritaire leiders. Da Empoli's werk is een waarschuwing voor de gevaren van populisme en een oproep tot een hernieuwd engagement met de waarden van de democratie. De auteur biedt geen gemakkelijke antwoorden, maar stimuleert wel tot kritisch denken over de toekomst van de democratie.

Kokoro, meaning "intelligent heart," delves into Japanese wisdom to navigate life's transitions. Beth Kempton shares personal experiences of loss and grief, weaving in reflections on impermanence and the power of pilgrimage. The book explores the three sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan, symbolizing present, past, and future. It encourages readers to question their priorities and embrace a more intentional life path. Ultimately, Kokoro offers a roadmap for personal growth and finding meaning in the face of life's inevitable changes.

This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.

In 'The Haves and the Have-Yachts', Evan Osnos provides a wry and unfiltered look at how the ultrarich shape and sometimes warp the social and political landscape. The book delves into the world of superyachts, luxury bunkers, elite tax dodges, and political donations, highlighting the staggering disparities of wealth and power in today's America.

Things Become Other Things blends memoir and travel writing, recounting a 300-mile walk on Japan's Kumano Kodō routes. The journey reflects on the author's childhood, experiences as an adoptee, and his relocation to Japan, while exploring history, literature, and spirituality in rural Japan. The book is a poignant exploration of personal growth and cultural insight.