Guy Kawasaki's Remarkable People
AJ Jacobs: The Constitution Comes Alive
Aug 21, 2024
AJ Jacobs, a bestselling author and immersive journalist, shares his hilarious year-long journey living according to the Constitution's original intent. He humorously recounts the absurdities, like carrying a musket in NYC. Their conversation dives into the complexities of modern interpretations of rights, including women's rights and cruel punishments, while advocating for better civic engagement. Jacobs also critiques the Supreme Court's power, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to uphold democracy and the evolution of beliefs across political divides.
01:13:38
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Quick takeaways
- AJ Jacobs highlights how living according to the original Constitution reveals the absurdities and challenges of applying 18th-century laws today.
- The use of a quill pen transformed Jacobs' thinking process, illustrating the positive impact of slowing down for deeper reflection amidst modern distractions.
Deep dives
Immersive Experiments in Living
A.J. Jacobs is known for his immersive experiments, such as reading the entire Encyclopedia Britannica and following the Bible's rules for a year. His latest project involves attempting to live according to the original meaning of the United States Constitution for a year. This endeavor led him to experience various aspects of 18th-century life, including carrying a musket as part of exercising his Second Amendment rights. His commitment to the experiment showcases his unique approach to understanding historical documents through personal experience.
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