In 'Dominion,' Matthew Scully presents a comprehensive and eloquent case against the mistreatment of animals. The book delves into various aspects of animal suffering, including factory farming, hunting, whaling, and laboratory experiments. Scully challenges the notion that humans have unlimited dominion over animals, as suggested by biblical interpretations, and argues for a moral and compassionate approach to animal treatment. He draws on both religious and scientific perspectives to make his case, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the recognition of animal consciousness and suffering. The book is a call to action for reform and a plea for human benevolence and mercy towards animals.
Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Notes from Underground" is a novella that delves into the mind of an unnamed narrator, a bitter and alienated individual who rails against reason and societal norms. The work is considered a precursor to existentialist literature, exploring themes of isolation, nihilism, and the human condition. Dostoevsky's masterful use of first-person narration allows readers to experience the narrator's turbulent thoughts and emotions. The novella's exploration of free will and the complexities of human psychology continues to resonate with readers today. Its influence on literature and philosophy is undeniable, shaping the works of later writers and thinkers.
In 'Doom: The Politics of Catastrophe', Niall Ferguson delves into the global history of disasters, analyzing why humanity consistently fails to prepare for catastrophes. The book covers a wide range of disasters, from pandemics and earthquakes to financial crises and wars, and argues that many disasters have man-made components. Ferguson critiques the responses of developed countries to the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the role of bureaucratic failures and complex systems in exacerbating disasters. The book draws on various fields such as economics, epidemiology, and network science to offer a general theory of disasters and suggests ways to improve future responses to crises.
This biography, written over a period of 25 years, captures Oppenheimer’s life from his early career to his central role in the Cold War. It highlights his transformation into a charismatic leader at Los Alamos, the burdens of secrecy and surveillance, and the tumultuous events surrounding his security hearing. The book is praised for its voluminous scholarship and lucid insight into Oppenheimer’s complex nature and his impact on American history.
This book is a detailed commentary on the Book of Revelation, written by Ernest Findlay Scott. Published in 1940, it provides an in-depth analysis of the biblical text, offering insights into its historical, theological, and literary context. Scott's work is considered a significant contribution to biblical scholarship, particularly in the field of New Testament studies.
The Bible in a Year podcast, hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz, guides listeners through the entire Bible in 365 episodes. It follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, developed by Jeff Cavins, providing commentary, reflection, and prayer to help understand the Bible's narrative.
The Master of Ballantrae explores the tumultuous relationship between two Scottish noble brothers, James and Henry Durie, whose family is divided by the Jacobite rebellion. The novel follows their adventures and conflicts across different continents, weaving a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle between good and evil. Narrated by Ephraim Mackellar, the story delves into themes of family, ambition, and the complexities of human nature.
The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner is a novel that delves into the complexities of religious fanaticism and psychological turmoil. It follows Robert Wringhim, a staunch Calvinist who, under the influence of the enigmatic Gil-Martin, commits atrocities believing he is among the elect. The novel is celebrated for its exploration of themes such as predestination and the blurring of reality and delusion. Initially met with critical neglect, it has since become a highly regarded work in Scottish literature.
Dr. Jordan B. Peterson sits down with historian and author Niall Ferguson. They discuss the historical and deeply mythological precedent of world-ending narratives, how the global doomsday ethos abdicates local responsibility while empowering the elite class, the out-of-control gigantism plaguing our administrative states today, and how we might strive to deal with genuine tragedy morally, religiously, and with humility.
Niall Ferguson is a Scottish-American historian, author, columnist, TV presenter, and academic. He is the Milbank Family Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution of Stanford University, as well as a senior fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University. Ferguson has written many books, such as “Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World,” “Colossus: The Rise and Fall of the American Empire,” “The Square and the Tower,” and most recently, “Doom: The Politics of Catastrophe,” which has been shortlisted for the Lionel Gelber prize.
- Links -
For Niall Ferguson:
Website https://www.niallferguson.com/
Doom (Book) https://www.amazon.com/Doom-Politics-Catastrophe-Niall-Ferguson/dp/0593297377
On X https://twitter.com/nfergus?lang=en
On Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@niallferguson5684/videos
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast 
