111: Ellen Petry Leanse – The Brain and Beyond

In 'The Chalice and the Blade', Riane Eisler presents a revolutionary reinterpretation of human history, highlighting the contrast between societies built on domination ('the Blade') and those based on partnership and cooperation ('the Chalice'). The book challenges conventional historical perspectives by providing evidence from archaeology, mythology, art, and religion that suggests early human societies were more egalitarian and peaceful. Eisler introduces her Cultural Transformation theory, which proposes that the fundamental models of society are 'partnership' and 'dominator', and argues that a shift towards partnership societies could lead to a more equitable and peaceful future.

Word Slut is a witty and insightful exploration of the complexities of language, particularly focusing on words that are often deemed offensive or taboo. Amanda Montell challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding language, arguing for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to word usage. The book examines the historical and cultural contexts of various words, demonstrating how their meanings and connotations have evolved over time. Montell encourages readers to reclaim words that have been weaponized against marginalized groups, promoting a more empowering and liberating relationship with language. Ultimately, Word Slut is a call for reclaiming language and using it as a tool for social justice and personal expression.

In this book, Mónica Guzmán provides practical tools and insights on how to overcome fear and certainty to understand and learn from people with differing political opinions. Drawing from her personal experiences, including conversations with her family and her work with Braver Angels, Guzmán shows how curiosity can be used to grow smarter from tense interactions, ask meaningful questions, and find common ground. The book addresses the current state of polarization and offers a pathway to healing relationships and society through empathetic and curious conversations.