At this point, I'm basically a regular reader of Smil. This is the fourth book of his I've read. It might not be his best one, mainly because it condeAt this point, I'm basically a regular reader of Smil. This is the fourth book of his I've read. It might not be his best one, mainly because it condenses ideas and arguments he’s already explored in his previous works.
That said, it's always fascinating to hear his perspective, especially given how grounded in data it is. Smil focuses more on the past and present, and when he does make predictions, he’s extremely cautious - but more often than not, he’s right.
I liked the part where he critiques the notion that we would be better off if we had remained hunter-gatherers. He argues that the societies we know today only exist because of the development of agriculture and the communities that formed around it.
The part on reducing food waste was also very interesting, as was his explanation of why turning the entire world vegan is neither feasible nor sustainable - at least not at the moment, and not for the foreseeable future.
All in all, a very interesting and definitely not boring read....more
It was interesting, though at times I felt a bit lost due to the amount of information and the frequent jumps between topics that didn’t seem to conneIt was interesting, though at times I felt a bit lost due to the amount of information and the frequent jumps between topics that didn’t seem to connect at first. The book touches on different subjects and offers unique perspectives. I’m considering reading the other books in the series or even checking out the podcast (I didn’t know there was one).
To help myself remember the book, I wrote a quick summary for reference, and I’m pasting it here so that when I come back to this review, I’ll have a reminder. I’m not a fan of including full summaries in reviews, but here it goes. If you haven’t read the book yet, stop reading here—there are spoilers ahead! (ChatGPT helped me put this together.)
Introduction Economics is not just about money—it's about incentives and how people respond to them. the author applies economic tools to odd questions.
Chapter 1: What Do Schoolteachers and Sumo Wrestlers Have in Common?
Cheating Teachers: In Chicago schools, some teachers were changing students� standardized test answers to meet performance incentives. Sumo Wrestlers: In Japan, some sumo wrestlers threw matches to help others reach winning records due to the incentive structure of the sport.
Incentives can lead people to cheat, even in supposedly “noble� professions. People respond to incentives—whether financial, social, or moral—often in unexpected ways.
Chapter 2: How Is the Ku Klux Klan Like a Group of Real-Estate Agents?
KKK: The power of the Klan was largely based on secrecy; when Stetson Kennedy exposed their rituals, their influence waned. Real-Estate Agents: Agents have more information than buyers/sellers and often use it for their own benefit (e.g., encouraging sellers to accept lower offers for faster commissions).
Information is power. When one side of a transaction has more information, they can exploit it unless transparency levels the playing field.
Chapter 3: Why Do Drug Dealers Still Live with Their Moms?
A University of Chicago graduate embedded with a drug gang and found that low-level dealers made below minimum wage, while only a few at the top made big money.
The structure of drug gangs mimics a corporate pyramid. The economic rewards are heavily skewed toward the top, leaving most workers underpaid and overexposed to risk.
Chapter 4: Where Have All the Criminals Gone?
Drop in Crime in the 1990s: Common explanations included better policing, tougher laws, and the booming economy. Levitt argued a major factor was the legalization of abortion in the 1970s, which reduced the number of unwanted children who might have been at higher risk of becoming criminals (controversial, but I really liked this one).
Social phenomena can have hidden causes. Sometimes, the most powerful factors are the least obvious or the most uncomfortable to acknowledge.
Chapter 5: What Makes a Perfect Parent?
Analysis of data from a massive study showed that what parents are (education level, socioeconomic status) matters more than what they do (reading to the child every night, playing Mozart).
Parenting actions matter less than we think—many factors shaping a child’s success are beyond parents� direct control and tied more to background than daily behavior.
Chapter 6: Perfect Parenting, Part II; or: Would a Roshanda by Any Other Name Smell as Sweet?
Some studies suggest names can correlate with success, but it's more about the socioeconomic background behind the name than the name itself.
A name doesn’t cause success or failure—it's a signal of the parent’s background, which is what truly impacts a child’s prospects. ...more
A fascinating read, though not without its contradictions.
Most of the stories are nested one inside the other, probably to keep the reader (and the kiA fascinating read, though not without its contradictions.
Most of the stories are nested one inside the other, probably to keep the reader (and the king) engaged for many days. I had an abridged version that likely included the most famous or relevant tales, and it's easy to see how much they've influenced modern storytelling and collective imagination.
That said, there's a noticeable repetition in themes and structure, and a perspective that leans more toward the male point of view, complete with frequent love-at-first-sight moments and female roles that are often limited or stereotypical.
Still, it's overall very charming, and those who enjoy ancient stories will find plenty of entertainment....more
All in all, I liked it. It offers an engaging perspective on Greek goddesses, highlighting their power and influence while connecting them to modern pAll in all, I liked it. It offers an engaging perspective on Greek goddesses, highlighting their power and influence while connecting them to modern pop culture, showing how these myths still have a strong presence and relevance today. Stories and culture continue to draw inspiration from them.
However, the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming (or at least it was for me) especially for those not deeply familiar with mythology. The narrative jumps quickly between different myths, interpretations, and contemporary references, making it difficult to follow at times. While providing both Greek and Roman names for each deity was helpful, it also added to the already dense list of names and details, contributing to the sense of overload.
Overall, an insightful read with a strong feminist perspective, but the structure and depth of information can make it challenging to absorb....more
This isn’t a genre I usually read, but every now and then, I give it a try to see if this time it will surprise me. It didn’t.
There are some aspects IThis isn’t a genre I usually read, but every now and then, I give it a try to see if this time it will surprise me. It didn’t.
There are some aspects I liked. The book brought back memories of my teenage summers, with all the emotions and complications that come with that time of life. In that sense, it did a good job of conveying nostalgia and the feeling of growing up. Also, even though the plot was predictable, it was still fairly believable and easy to get through.
That said, there were things that didn’t work for me. The romance was often overly dramatic (though less than I expected), but I guess that’s to be expected with these kinds of books. The obsession with Sam’s muscles got a bit tiring. I also wasn’t entirely sure what the book was trying to achieve; beyond evoking nostalgia, it didn’t leave me with much.
Overall, it wasn’t a disaster, but it also didn’t leave a strong impression. If you enjoy emotional, second-chance love stories, you’ll probably like this more than I did....more
I’m honestly relieved I didn’t spend money on this crap. What do people even see in books like this?
The author is a total sadist. She hated the protagI’m honestly relieved I didn’t spend money on this crap. What do people even see in books like this?
The author is a total sadist. She hated the protagonist so much that she put him through absolute hell, non-stop. It’s just endless suffering, misery on top of misery for 700 pages.
I kept reading, hoping for some kind of redemption, I just wanted Jude to be okay. But nope, the deeper I got into the book, the worse it got. Yanagihara is obsessed with pain, shoving it in the reader’s face over and over again. Love? Friendship? Jude’s success at work? Briefly mentioned. The only thing that matters is suffering, again and again.
And seriously? If the world were actually like the one in this book, there’d be no point in leaving the house. It’s all way too much—too much bad luck, too exaggerated, with a portrayal of trauma and mental illness that feels more like emotional torture porn than anything real.
And what about women? Practically nonexistent in this book. It’s all men, and the few female characters that do show up are fleeting and irrelevant.
Unnecessary, excessive suffering for no reason. Fuck this book....more
In sum: [image] If you want to sleep well at night, don't read this book.
I really hope the author is exaggerating, but I fear that much of what he predIn sum: [image] If you want to sleep well at night, don't read this book.
I really hope the author is exaggerating, but I fear that much of what he predicts will come to pass, and the "wave" is indeed coming. If what he says becomes reality, this book will be remembered for a long time. I hope a middle ground can be found and that the changes won't be as abrupt as he describes.
Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that offers a chilling glimpse into the future, but whether it’s a wake-up call or a worst-case scenario remains to be seen ...more
If you are here and indecisive about whether to read it or not, just read it.
This book is eye-opening. It presents something we’ve all sensed that is If you are here and indecisive about whether to read it or not, just read it.
This book is eye-opening. It presents something we’ve all sensed that is now backed by studies and statistics. It highlights this modern disease that we can now understand and take action to address. The practical advice the author offers is useful not just for parents but for anyone who wants to better understand the younger generation, as well as the addiction to endlessly scrolling.
One minor critique I have is that some findings rely on surveys with children, which can feel tricky. Asking a child about sadness, for instance, might inadvertently introduce the idea, rather than letting them process emotions naturally. Still, these perspectives contribute to a broader understanding of the problem and its scope.
This book is a must-read: important, practical, and timely. It forces us to confront realities we may have ignored and empowers us to make changes for the better....more
The book feels somewhat constructed, almost theatrical, when depicting the misfortunes Jim goes through. Everett probably exaggerates to highlight theThe book feels somewhat constructed, almost theatrical, when depicting the misfortunes Jim goes through. Everett probably exaggerates to highlight the absurdity of racism and slavery, but some elements felt forced.
Jim's narrative arc seemed weak to me; I didn't feel much evolution in the protagonist. Perhaps Everett wanted to show that Jim's humanity and intelligence were always there, just suffocated by racial stereotypes.
I did appreciate the perspective on the life of slaves, as I haven't read much on the subject and would like to learn more. The theme of language was also fascinating: the contrast between formal English and the Black English of slaves is well portrayed.
A book that makes you reflect and offers an original perspective, but didn't fully convince me...more
I hadn’t read much about the Vietnam War before, and this novel offers plenty of detail—not just about the conflict itself, butA great book, no doubt.
I hadn’t read much about the Vietnam War before, and this novel offers plenty of detail—not just about the conflict itself, but also about the historical period, with its discrimination, the condition of women at the time, and the psychological effects of war. A dark chapter in U.S. history, one that shouldn’t be forgotten for the many lives lost in vain and the suffering it left behind.
That said, the melodramatic tone in some parts, especially in the romantic bits, sometimes weighs down the story—though that might be just me. Also, while the first half moves quickly and is gripping, mainly to the intense pace of war, the second half slows down and drags a little. I guess this was intentional, but I found it less engaging.
Overall, a powerful read that leaves plenty to think about....more
This is a simple novel that tells the story of an ordinary man—no grand events, no heroism—but it still leaves a lasting impression. Most people will This is a simple novel that tells the story of an ordinary man—no grand events, no heroism—but it still leaves a lasting impression. Most people will probably think this is just a boring book, and they’re not completely wrong.
I know it’s probably a bit of a stretch, and not everyone will get the reference, but reading it reminded me of "Roy: A Life Well Lived" from Rick and Morty. As I read, I felt like I was living Stoner’s life alongside him, watching time pass, seeing him make decisions almost by default, dealing with regrets, and experiencing the rare moments of true happiness. I aged with him.
What stood out to me was the passivity with which Stoner faces the historical events of his time. It was interesting to see that period from the perspective of someone who lived through it, but without being overwhelmed by the tragedies we typically associate with those years.
There’s a constant melancholy, but also a quiet beauty in his silent endurance and his constant love for literature. It’s not a book that grabs you all at once, but one that quietly settles in and stays with you long after you’ve finished it....more
This book tested my patience, until the last 300 pages completely turned it around. The ending was exciting and full of action, but it was a struggle This book tested my patience, until the last 300 pages completely turned it around. The ending was exciting and full of action, but it was a struggle to get there. For me, the book felt way too long, and some parts dragged a lot.
Sanderson is amazing at creating a huge world and deep characters. It’s crazy how he writes about so many people and makes it all work! But the story has been focusing a lot on themes like introspection and self-acceptance in these later books. That’s fine, but I prefer classic fantasy with more epic battles, magic, and swords.
Even though this is my least favorite book in the series, it’s still really well done. Shoutout to the audiobook narrators, they were awesome and made the big cast of characters much easier to follow!...more
It was a pretty good book, though it had its ups and downs. Some parts, especially the ones with only robots, felt a bit slow and boring. But probablyIt was a pretty good book, though it had its ups and downs. Some parts, especially the ones with only robots, felt a bit slow and boring. But probably, that just shows how well the author wrote the characters, it's easy to tell the humans apart from the machines.
The story itself can be a little exaggerated at times, and some parts feel unnecessary. That said, everything gets explained by the end, which ties it all together. Overall, it was a fun and smooth read. If you’re into sci-fi, this is a book worth checking out.
I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by the author himself. Usually, I’m not a fan of this because most authors aren’t great performers. But in this case, I was surprised, Tchaikovsky did a great job bringing his own story to life....more
Il libro è una testimonianza che racchiude l'identità di un popolo, non solo attraverso il racconto degli eventi politici e sociali dell’epoca, ma sopIl libro è una testimonianza che racchiude l'identità di un popolo, non solo attraverso il racconto degli eventi politici e sociali dell’epoca, ma soprattutto grazie ai dettagli del linguaggio e delle tradizioni. L'autore usa uno spagnolo vivo, quotidiano, con espressioni che danno forma a quella "patria" che non è fatta solo di ideali e lotta armata, ma di gesti condivisi, piatti tipici e relazioni umane.
Il rapporto tra le due famiglie protagoniste, un tempo unite e poi separate da profonde fratture, diventa lo specchio delle contraddizioni dell'ETA. Attraverso il loro intreccio, emergono non solo le ingiustizie e gli errori legati alla lotta armata, ma anche le ragioni e le frustrazioni che l’hanno alimentata.
Un personaggio che ho trovato particolarmente significativo è Gorka che si sforza di preservare e diffondere la lingua e la cultura basca, contrapponendosi alla violenza del fratello. Questo contrasto tra costruzione e distruzione è, secondo me, il cuore della storia.
The book is okay; it has some good advice. The only thing I didn’t like was that it’s way too spiritual for me, especially in some parts, though some The book is okay; it has some good advice. The only thing I didn’t like was that it’s way too spiritual for me, especially in some parts, though some people might enjoy that. It’s short, so it doesn’t take much of your time. It’s worth a read if you want something simple with a few good insights.
I don’t like to include summaries in my reviews, but this might be helpful if you’re practical:
Be Impeccable with Your Word Speak with integrity and say only what you mean. Avoid using words to harm yourself or others through gossip, lies, or negativity. Use the power of your words to create love, truth, and positivity.
Don't Take Anything Personally Understand that other people’s actions and words are a reflection of their reality, not yours. By not taking things personally, you free yourself from unnecessary suffering caused by others' judgments or opinions.
Don't Make Assumptions Avoid making assumptions about what others think, feel, or intend. Misunderstandings often arise from assumptions. Instead, communicate clearly and ask questions to ensure mutual understanding.
Always Do Your Best Your "best" may vary from day to day depending on circumstances, but strive to give your full effort in everything you do. No more, no less. By doing your best, you minimize regret, self-judgment, and guilt....more
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