Bakunin > Recent Status Updates

Reading this as part of my attempt to become a better screenwriter. Mckee is one of the few script-gurus who I like. So far interesting (although I don't like his emphasis on archetypes)

Good introduction to standup for those who are curious and wish to get started.

Interesting so far. Her views are fairly similar to her husband (Sam Harris) but I am eagerly awaiting her reflections on panpsychism.

Such an enthralling read! Lumet is both entertaining and informative. Its been 4 years since I directed theater and this book really makes me yearn for a movie to direct.

Ram Dass is a perhaps the most famous hippy and spiritual guru from the 60's. Its an interesting read but I notice his hero-worshiping tendencies. He believes in saints like Maharaji who have become completely enlightened (but done it in an individual way). My question is: if there is no method to be learnt from them, how can I be sure that I too will arrive at that same destination?

"The ego just wants to keep collecting more and more subtle experiences as a separate self. It makes people think the journey is just one subtle experience after another. The spiritual journey isn't like that." (p. 36)

"By a free country, I mean a country where people are allowed, so long as they do not hurt their neighbours, to do as they like. I do not mean a country where six men make five men do exactly as they like" (p. 92)

"This incomparable discipline was responsible for all that was best in higher education in England: the independence of judgement, seriousness of attitude and ability to make a case and defend it, which were the marks of the educated English mind" (p.166)

Scruton on the fact that college student have to defend an essay to a don every week. Interesting! (And most likely true)

"Let it be said also, for fear of falling into panegyric, that in an age of universal latitude and easilt condoned licence, his conduct incurred severe condemnation, and that he acquired notoriety even before fame." (p. 21)

Quite a character! I love this book so far!

No more King John! as the popular saying goes. Martinsson tells the interesting story behind the Magna Carta and tells it in quite an enthralling way.