Ep. 2691 The Establishment Lies About Everything, with Mike Adams

Candide, written by Voltaire, is a satirical novel that critiques metaphysical optimism, particularly the philosophy of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. The story revolves around Candide, a naive and optimistic young man who is expelled from his home after an illicit affair with the baron's daughter, Cunégonde. Candide and his companions, including his tutor Pangloss, experience a series of horrific events such as wars, earthquakes, slavery, and other atrocities. Despite these hardships, Pangloss persists in his belief that 'all is for the best in this best of all possible worlds. ' The novel ultimately concludes with Candide and his friends settling on a farm in Turkey, where they find happiness by focusing on practical, everyday tasks rather than philosophical speculations. Voltaire uses satire to lampoon various aspects of 18th-century society, including science, philosophy, religion, and government.

In this book, Paul Johnson provides an in-depth historical analysis of the 20th century, starting from the aftermath of World War I and ending with the collapse of Communism in Eastern Europe. The book covers significant events such as the rise of totalitarian regimes, the impacts of World War I and II, the Cold War, and the influence of religion and ideology on politics and society. Johnson also explores major scientific and technological advancements and their effects on human perception and behavior. The book is written from a conservative perspective and has been praised for its profound influence on intellectual thinking.

Published in 1975, 'Sugar Blues' is a classic expose that delves into the history of sugar, its impact on health, and the societal and economic factors that have led to its widespread consumption. Dufty narrates his personal journey of sugar addiction and withdrawal, while also providing a detailed history of the sugar industry, its role in slavery and war, and the devastating health consequences of refined sugar consumption. The book highlights issues such as diabetes, hypoglycemia, obesity, and other health problems linked to sugar intake. Dufty compares refined sugar to drugs, emphasizing its lack of nutritional value and its role in draining nutrients from the body.