#1198 - Derren Brown

In this major work of ecological philosophy, David Abram draws on diverse sources including the philosophy of Merleau-Ponty, Balinese shamanism, Apache storytelling, and his own experience as a magician to reveal the intricate relationship between human perception and the natural world. The book delves into the character of perception and the sensual foundations of language, highlighting how even abstract language echoes the natural world. Abram argues that humans have severed their ancient reciprocity with nature and explores what it would take to recover a sustaining relation with the earth.

In 'Happy: Why More or Less Everything is Absolutely Fine,' Derren Brown delves into the concept of happiness from various angles, drawing on influences from Stoicism, philosophy, literature, and modern psychology. The book is divided into three sections: 'Beginnings,' which discusses the stories we tell ourselves and the problems with self-help; 'Solutions,' which explores living a considered life, dealing with emotions, and regaining control over our narratives; and 'Happy Endings,' which addresses the fear of death and how to live in the present. Brown argues that true happiness is not found in material goods or external events but in accepting the indifference of the universe and finding contentment in the present moment[2][4][5].