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CONEtrolled: How We’ve Lost Our Freedom and How to Reclaim it
CONEtrolled delves into the intricate dynamics of power structures and societal control mechanisms through an innovative concept termed the “Cone Model.” The book is divided into several parts, exploring the origins of societal issues, the manipulation of needs and solutions, the development of systems into dogmas, and the ultimate rise and fall of these controlling structures. It concludes with a hopeful vision for reclaiming individual and collective freedom.
Dr. Israel’s writing is both engaging and thought-provoking. She skillfully uses metaphors and detailed examples to illustrate complex social phenomena. For instance, in Chapter 1, the discussion on Core Certainties and their transformation is particularly compelling. The author’s ability to connect abstract concepts with everyday experiences makes the book accessible without oversimplifying the issues. However, there are moments when the dense academic language might overwhelm readers who are not accustomed to such in-depth analyses.
One of the most striking parts of the book is Chapter 16, “Belly of the Beast,” which delves into how Cone Systems devolves into sluggish bureaucracies while expanding its power and reach. Dr. Israel vividly describes the propagation of rules and the ills of bureaucracy, illustrating how these systems prioritize self-preservation over the welfare of individuals. The chapter’s exploration of the expansion and colonization of Cone Systems is particularly relevant, shedding light on how power structures entrench themselves and stifle innovation and freedom. This chapter not only critiques the inefficiencies and oppressiveness of bureaucracies but also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power.
CONEtrolled is a rigorous exploration of societal structures and the mechanisms of control. It is particularly suited for readers interested in sociology, psychology, and political science. Dr. Israel’s book challenges readers to critically assess the systems around them and consider active steps toward reclaiming personal and collective autonomy.
Pages: 707 | ASIN : B0D6WKCKRY
Tickling is Bizarre
Almost Everything You Wanted to Know About Tickling is a fascinating study on a topic that is not often discussed or looked at from the unique perspective of women. Why did you want to write about subjects such as tickling?
Tickling is bizarre physiologically and psychologically. On balance, it must be a good thing or humans would not have evolved to become ticklish in a way that is different from all other animals. On the other hand, tickling is often unpleasant and detrimental to relationships. Any behavior that causes many different kinds of positive and negative consequences, none of which are well-understood, is worth exploring.
The second reason I wanted to write this book was that I was especially qualified to do so. Not only did I have excellent experience using the necessary methodologies during a long career in academic research, but I was retired. Tickling is not a respected topic, and active researchers who pursue it risk their careers.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
My goals changed throughout the study. They appeared in the following order.
1. Design a method for an independent researcher working alone to study tickling?
2. Identify the most interesting questions that could be studied about tickling. I found many, but the ones most thoroughly explored in the book were how ticklish are women throughout the world, and how much did women throughout the world enjoy being tickled.
3. Evaluate what characteristics of the women influence how ticklish they are and how much they liked being tickled.
4. Finally, I wanted to present respectable science so that it would be understandable and interesting to the general reader. I predicted that scientists would consider this topic trivial, but some general readers would be curious. This book is for them.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how long did it take to put it all together?
This book involved a huge amount of research over more than four years. Much of the research I did was left out of the book because my target audience was the general reader. I spent more than a year trying to hire someone who could write this book for me. When I realized that was not possible, I spent another couple of years writing it myself.
What is the next book that you are writing and when will that be published?
You sound like my wife. I have ideas for several possible books on the topic of how people relate to each other. I’m not far enough along on any of them to make a meaningful prediction of when one might be completed.
Author Links: GoodReads
Why read this book.It is the best book about tickling that has been written. Since it’s the only book about tickling, that’s not a big claim, but it is a good book.
It makes you think about why tickling evolved and what good it may do.
The information is interesting and socially important.
It provides fodder for book groups and informal conversations.
Almost Everything You Wanted to Know About Tickling: An International Study
Duncan Taub’s Almost Everything You Wanted to Know About Tickling delves into the curiously underexplored world of tickling, challenging the common assumption that tickling is a trivial subject. Taub’s comprehensive research spans various cultures and demographics, providing a refreshing perspective on this often-overlooked aspect of human behavior. His commitment to treating tickling as a serious research subject is evident throughout the book, offering a rich blend of information on its prevalence, cultural perceptions, and societal boundaries.
Taub’s work stands out for its depth and rigor. It effectively argues for the significance of tickling in understanding human social interaction. He approaches this topic with a commendable balance of academic diligence and engaging storytelling. His exploration of tickling’s evolutionary origins and its varied responses—from laughter to discomfort—highlights the complexity of this phenomenon. His willingness to address the uncomfortable or ‘icky’ aspects of tickling adds an honest and candid layer to the narrative.
The book excels in making academic research accessible and engaging. Taub skillfully navigates between scholarly discourse and reader-friendly language, ensuring the content resonates with lay readers and seasoned researchers. He thoughtfully explains his statistical data clearly, and his flexible approach to the material allows readers to engage with the book according to their interests. Taub’s transparent and curiosity-driven research process, evident even in the book’s title, invites readers into a world of scientific exploration. His concise summary of key findings and implications towards the end of the book is a testament to his thoughtful consideration of the reader’s experience.
Almost Everything You Wanted to Know About Tickling could potentially open new avenues of inquiry in the field. Taub’s meticulous work and novel perspective make this a noteworthy addition to scientific literature. This book is compelling for anyone with an open mind, whether they are casually curious or deeply involved in research.
Pages: 176 | ASIN : B0CVRBX8F6
LITERARY TITAN 