Cycles of Society: The Ebb & Flow of Harmony & Disharmony

Balanced scales tipping back and forth between happy emojis and angry emojis illustrates cycles of society

How do societies evolve over time? What causes periods of harmony and disharmony in civilizations? Ray Dalio explores the cycles of society in his book Principles for Dealing With the Changing World Order. He examines how economic and social factors contribute to the rise and fall of major powers. Dalio argues that societies progress through stages of building harmony and increasing disharmony. Read on to discover Dalio’s insights into these cycles, including the state of the US and China within them.

The Importance of Trade: Promoting Trust & Political Freedom

A man and a woman shaking hands in front of a world map, representing the importance of trade in society

Why is trade important to society? How does trade promote trust? Trade fosters a stable society based on transparency, accountability, and respectful interaction between individuals and groups. In particular, Matt Ridley says that trade promotes trust and cooperation, as well as strengthens free political systems. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of trade.

The Precipice: Existential Risk and the Future of Humanity

A concerned man holding an open book and looking at the camera

Are we on the brink of extinction? What can we do to safeguard humanity’s future? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice: Existential Risk and the Future of Humanity explores the threats facing us. He argues that human actions and technologies now pose serious risks to our survival. Ord outlines natural, man-made, and future threats we must understand and address. Keep reading to learn about the dangers we face and how we can work to secure a bright future for humanity.

The “Mediocre White Male”: How the Concept Harms Us All

A white man with a light beard and spiky hair wearing a denim jacket illustrates the notion of the mediocre white male

Are you tired of hearing about white male privilege? Why do mediocre white men still seem to get ahead in life? Ijeoma Oluo’s book Mediocre explores the concept of the mediocre white male and its impact on society. She argues that systemic advantages for white men can lead to complacency and harm everyone, including white men themselves. Keep reading to discover how this phenomenon affects our daily lives.

Matt Ridley’s Climate Change Position: No Green Energy

Matt Ridley talking on stage and giving a speech

Why does Matt Ridley think we shouldn’t rush into green energy? What is his solution for the climate change crisis? Matt Ridley urges caution and restraint in response to climate change. He argues that we should fully consider the risks of reacting too hastily or zealously in our efforts to mitigate the effects of a warming planet. Let’s explore Matt Ridley’s climate change opinion, and how he thinks we can defeat it.

White Masculinity: A Mythology of Violent Cowboys (Ijeoma Oluo)

A rugged cowboy wearing a cowboy hat exemplifies white masculinity

Do you know the origins of white masculinity in America? How does the cowboy myth influence modern-day extremism? Ijeoma Oluo explores the concept of white masculinity through the lens of the American cowboy archetype. She argues that this idealized image of rugged individualism and conquest has far-reaching consequences, shaping attitudes and behaviors in contemporary society. Continue reading for a thought-provoking journey through American history and culture.

Natural Threats to Humanity: Terrestrial & Extraterrestrial Risks

Asteroids hurling through outer space illustrate natural threats to humanity

Are you prepared for nature’s most devastating events? What would happen if an asteroid hit Earth or a supervolcano erupted? In The Precipice, Toby Ord contends that natural threats pose significant risks to humanity’s survival. From extraterrestrial dangers to terrestrial hazards, these events could cause global catastrophes. While the chances are low, their impact would be severe and largely beyond our control. Read on to discover the fascinating and terrifying details of these natural threats and how they could reshape our world.

The Politics of Refusal: Tricia Hersey on Resting as a Community

A group of people gathering together in a community hall to talk illustrates politics of refusal

How can communities support each other in resisting grind culture? What do “politics of refusal” look like in practice? Tricia Hersey’s book Rest Is Resistance explores the concept of rest as a communal practice. She advocates for creating spaces and communities dedicated to well-being over constant productivity. Hersey introduces the idea of a “politics of refusal” where people collectively reject the demands of grind culture. Read on to discover how communities can empower each other to prioritize rest and well-being in a world that often values productivity above all else.

3 Ways the Male White Establishment Guards Its Power

A man in a suit speaking into a microphone at a hearing with several men behind him illustrates the male white establishment

How does the male white establishment maintain its power? What tactics do they use to exclude women and people of color from positions of influence? In her book Mediocre, Ijeoma Oluo says the male white establishment employs various methods to preserve its dominance in political and economic spheres. The tactics aim to keep white men at the center of society by eliminating potential competitors. Keep reading to discover how these tactics have played out historically and continue to impact people today.