Max Brooks, author of World War Z and Minecraft novels, discusses resilience, fear of the unknown, and using Minecraft to teach problem-solving. He shares insights on his career, researching crises, and the power of fiction. Also covered are the fight, flight, or freeze response, embracing discomfort, and the consequences of resisting change.
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Quick takeaways
Overcoming fear of the unknown and adapting to change are essential skills for thriving in an evolving world.
Minecraft can teach kids creative problem-solving skills and the importance of social collaboration in an ever-changing environment.
Deep dives
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Max Brooks' Career and Work
Max Brooks, author of books like World War Z and Minecraft novels for kids, discusses his career and how his work explores resilience in the face of change. His writing about the zombie apocalypse led to opportunities at West Point's Modern War Institute, where he studies global crises. Brooks emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and embracing uncertainty, drawing from his own experiences and observations. He also explores how Minecraft can teach kids creative problem-solving skills in an ever-changing world.
The Role of Adaptability in Survival
Brooks discusses the importance of adaptability in survival situations and how it applies to various aspects of life. Drawing on personal experiences and examples from history, he emphasizes the need to embrace discomfort, take risks, and learn from failures. He highlights that being comfortable with being uncomfortable is crucial for growth and success in a constantly evolving world.
The Value of Social Connection in Survival
Brooks emphasizes the significance of social connection in survival and its relevance in modern society. He explores the importance of working together, learning from others, and being part of a community. Brooks encourages individuals to embrace their roles within social structures and recognize the limits of their individuality. He also uses Minecraft as an example of how social collaboration can enhance problem-solving skills.
In order to thrive in a world that’s constantly in flux, you have to learn to overcome your fear of the unknown and adapt yourself to whatever circumstance you find yourself in. Zombies and Minecraft can teach how to do both.
Today on the show, I talk to Max Brooks, son of famed filmmaker Mel Brooks, who is the author of books that include World War Z and a series of Minecraft novels for kids. Max and I discuss how he’s used his fiction to explore learning to be resilient in the face of change and how his work writing about the zombie apocalypse led to a gig at the Modern War Institute at West Point. Along the way, Max offers insights on overcoming your fear of the unknown and how Minecraft can help your kids learn how to thrive in a world where becoming a creative problem solver is the name of the game.