Part Four: Is Oprah Winfrey a Bastard?

In this book, Marianne Williamson reflects on the principles of A Course in Miracles, emphasizing the power of love to overcome fear and achieve inner peace. She argues that love is the key to solving both internal and external problems and that by choosing love over fear, we can create a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The book is divided into two main parts: 'Principles' and 'Practice,' and it includes personal anecdotes and spiritual concepts to help readers apply these principles in their daily lives.

A Course in Miracles is a three-volume set consisting of the Text, Workbook for Students, and Manual for Teachers. It aims to undo the illusion of separation from God and others by teaching forgiveness, releasing the past, and cultivating higher guidance. The Text presents the theoretical foundation, the Workbook provides 365 daily lessons to change the student's mind and perception, and the Manual for Teachers addresses practical questions and clarifies key terms. The course emphasizes the importance of spiritual vision, the unity of all, and the correction of misperceptions to achieve inner peace and happiness.

In 'Epidemic: How Teen Sex Is Killing Our Kids,' Dr. Meg Meeker addresses the serious issue of sexually transmitted diseases among teenagers, highlighting the psychological and health consequences. The book critiques the societal and cultural factors that contribute to this epidemic, including political correctness and marketing hype. Meeker advocates for sexual abstinence among teenagers, citing psychological benefits and the need for a more responsible approach to adolescent sexuality.

In 'The Age of Oprah', Janice Peck traces Oprah Winfrey's journey from a talk show host to one of the most influential figures in popular culture. The book examines the parallels between Winfrey's ascent and the political-economic rise of neoliberalism in the United States. Peck explores how Winfrey's influence extends into social, economic, and political arenas through her talk show, magazine, website, seminars, charity work, and public appearances. The book provides a detailed analysis of how Winfrey's brand of personal empowerment aligns with and reflects broader cultural and political trends, including the therapeutic enterprise, family values rhetoric, Reaganomics, neoliberal spirituality, and commodity philanthropy.

In 'The Power of Now', Eckhart Tolle discusses the importance of living in the present moment to achieve spiritual enlightenment. The book draws from various spiritual traditions, including Buddhism and mysticism, to explain how people's emotional problems are rooted in their identification with their minds. Tolle argues that the present moment is the only truly real time and that past and future are mere mental constructs. He provides methods for relaxation and meditation to help readers anchor themselves in the present, such as avoiding multitasking, spending time in nature, and letting go of worries about the future. The book also introduces concepts like the 'pain-body' and the distinction between one's thoughts and true self, emphasizing the need to recognize and separate from the destructive influence of the mind.

In 'Kids Gone Wild', Joel Best and Kathleen A. Bogle explore the contemporary legends and media hype surrounding teen sex, including stories about rainbow parties, sex bracelets, and sexting. The authors analyze how these stories spread, their geographical reach, and how they morph across different media platforms. They argue that these sensationalized stories have significant consequences, influencing debates on sex education and policy decisions related to teen sexuality. The book aims to provide a balanced view, separating fact from fiction and highlighting the importance of understanding the actual behaviors and needs of teenagers.