Jean-Paul Sartre on anti-semites

​This quote makes so much sense even today.

Never believe that anti-Semites are completely unaware of the absurdity of their replies. They know that their remarks are frivolous, open to challenge. But they are amusing themselves, for it is their adversary who is obliged to use words responsibly, since he believes in words. The anti-Semites have the right to play. They even like to play with discourse for, by giving ridiculous reasons, they discredit the seriousness of their interlocutors. They delight in acting in bad faith, since they seek not to persuade by sound argument but to intimidate and disconcert. If you press them too closely, they will abruptly fall silent, loftily indicating by some phrase that the time for argument is past.

Size

By Vaclav Smil

Exploring the intricate concept of size, Smil delves into the world of Gulliver's Travels, examining Jonathan Swift's portrayal of Lilliputians and Brobdingnagians. Through this analysis, Smil sheds light on the biological, societal, and economic implications of varying sizes, elucidating the types and consequences of different scaling laws.

"Beyond Measure" by James Vincent

"Beyond Measure" provides a comprehensive look at the history of measurement. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the exploration of the Metric system—its origins, development, and the resistance it encountered.

Early on, the book examines the historical context in France, where a multitude of varying measurements for the same objects posed substantial obstacles to trade. The imperative to standardize the measurement system in France becomes a central theme.

In contrast, the United States and England already had well-established standard units in place, which reduced the immediate incentives for adopting the Metric system. This historical perspective sheds light on the relatively reserved reception of the Metric system in these countries.

However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that the Metric system plays a pervasive role in various aspects of daily life. For example, the inch is legally defined in terms of Metric units, specifically 25.4 millimeters. "Beyond Measure" offers readers an in-depth exploration of the world of measurement, revealing the historical factors and influences that have shaped the systems we use today.

"Burn" by Herman Pontzer

"Burn" by Herman Pontzer

In "Burn," Herman Pontzer embarks on an exploration of the intricate world of metabolism, delving deep into the science behind how our bodies burn calories. Alongside providing a comprehensive scientific foundation, the book seamlessly intertwines compelling narratives that illuminate the journey of understanding this complex process. Without a doubt, the book proves to be a captivating read, although it may leave some readers with less than satisfying conclusions.

Pontzer firmly asserts that the fundamental principle of weight loss hinges on one key aspect: the consumption of fewer calories than one expends. Regardless of the dietary approach you choose, whether it be paleo, high-protein, low-fat, or another regimen, the ultimate path to shedding pounds boils down to calorie restriction. Pontzer also emphasizes that foods high in fiber and protein tend to keep you feeling satisfied for longer periods.

While exercise undoubtedly plays a pivotal role in weight maintenance and overall health, Pontzer debunks the common misconception that simply increasing physical activity levels will lead to weight loss.

The Pig That Wants to Be Eaten

By Julian Bagginni.

Bagginni presents one hundred different stories that illustrate philosophical conundrums.

A good introduction to the breadth of philosophical thinking.

Should We Eat Meat

By Vaclav Smil

Yet another very smart book from Smil that is very difficult to apply to my life.

Smil tackles the history, steep costs and future of eating meat. He strongly doubts that veganism will dominate world diets. He goes into great detail about why people love to eat meat and why vegetarians are and will stay the exception and not the rule.

The conclusions of this book tackle the process, technical and logistical challenges we must address to reduce the environmental expenses of our worlds growing number of meat eaters.

But, it wouldn’t hurt a fully grown adult to eat leas than 30kg of meat a year— about 10oz a week.

Kitchen Lab

A wonderful book on cooking, technique and good food.