'A few lines of reasoning can change the way we see the world.'
- Steven E. Landsburg
The human brain sifts a constant stream of data, sorting it into two categories: information and knowledge. The sorting process determines our perception of the world. Knowledge is the subset of this data that we find useful. To no surprise, humans crave knowledge. This list highlights readings with an exceptional knowledge-to-information ratio. There's no particular order. Taken together, these readings have shaped my worldview.
Seeking Wisdom - From Darwin to Munger
- Peter Bevelin
To this day, I keep with me a list of 24 psychological biases. I often review them, particularly before I make critical decisions. They're derived from Bevelin's collection of essays, a great resource for anyone who wants to understand the human mind and its decision making process. Seeking Wisdom is a treasured gift from my father on my 22nd birthday.
The Crowd - A Study of the Popular Mind
- Gustave Le Bon
Even though it’s over a century old, The Crowd holds up as a way to understand group psychology. It’s a lens for looking at how people come together, lose themselves, and create something bigger—sometimes inspiring, sometimes chaotic. If you’re curious about why humans act the way they do in mobs or movements, Le Bon’s book is a solid starting point. There's three core ideas that stick out:
Anonymity: When people join a crowd, they lose their sense of personal responsibility. It’s like a mask goes on, and they feel free to act in ways they wouldn’t on their own—sometimes recklessly or aggressively.
Contagion: Emotions and actions spread fast in a crowd, almost like a virus. One person’s excitement or anger can ignite the whole group, amplifying the intensity of the moment.
Suggestability: Crowds are easily swayed. A strong leader, a catchy slogan, or a powerful idea can steer them in any direction, often without much resistance or critical thought.
The End of the World is Just the Beginning
- Peter Zeihan
My world view tangibly shifted after reading Zeihan's work. His ideas are memorable, supported, and logical. Few works achieve such clarity in decoding global forces; Zeihan’s stands out as exceptional.
How to Change your Mind
- Michael Pollan
Through a blend of meticulous research and personal experimentation, Michael demystifies substances like LSD and psilocybin, discussing their capacity to alter consciousness and offer insights into the human mind. He navigates the cultural stigma and legal barriers that have long shrouded these compounds, while highlighting groundbreaking studies that suggest their efficacy in treating mental health disorders such as depression and addiction. KetaminaMD and I are both grateful for Pollan's work.
you are here
- Thich Nhat Hanh
I'm still here. Every day. Thich Nhat Hanh sparked my journey to buddhist enlightenment. Hanh champions presence—anchoring oneself in the now—as a means to clarity and resilience. Mindfulness yields internal peace. The Book of Joy by the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu is also great.
Basic Economics
- Thomas Sowell
Thomas Sowell is a master of economics. More impressively, he's a master of communication. Each sentence is a gem capable of standing independently. If you like Sowell's work, try Wealth, Poverty, and Politics.
Guns, Germs, and Steel
- Jared Diamond
Some societies developed faster and became more powerful than others. Diamond’s central thesis is that geography shaped the trajectory of human history, determining which societies rose to power and why.
Range
- David Epstein
Epstein's ideas are especially relevant with AI tools at our disposal. Generalists are valuable. The ability to switch between domains is a skill worth cultivating.
Unsettled
- Steven E. Koonin
Climate change hinges on three key points: (1) human activity impacts the environment, (2) this impact is intensifying, and (3) the full implications remain poorly understood. Given these facts and our limited grasp, adopting the "leaving no trace" ethos, inspired by Burning Man, seems prudent. Koonin's work pairs well with Bill Gates' How to Avoid a Climate Disaster. Both are essential reading.
Outlive
- Peter Attia, MD
Dr. Attia explores a breadth of complex domains with ease. His work is both inspiring and useful. He champions a personalized approach to healthcare, leveraging scientific research and biomarkers to tailor strategies that extend lifespan and healthspan. HormoneMD and I have learned a lot from his work.
The Invisible Hook
- Peter T. Leeson
Pirates, driven by self-interest, unwittingly pioneered democratic systems aboard their ships. This incisive study underscores the profound influence of environment on behavior, demonstrating how necessity and context can forge innovative governance structures.