Holy Shit
Melissa Mohr
A fascinating exploration into the history of swearing, tracing the evolution of offensive language from ancient Rome to the modern day. It delves into the cultural, physiological, and linguistic aspects of swearwords, revealing their surprising role in society and their connection to our deepest taboos.
Homieland
Raj Patel
Homieland: An Immigration History is a gripping exploration of the intertwined histories of the United States and Central America, revealing how US foreign policy and immigration laws have shaped the lives of migrants and the political landscape of both regions. Through personal stories and historical analysis, the book uncovers the human cost of deterrence and the enduring struggle for justice and belonging in a world on the move.
How Democracies Die
Steven Levitsky
A chilling account of how democracies can be dismantled from within, drawing lessons from history and offering strategies for resistance. This book explores the warning signs and subtle steps that lead to authoritarianism, urging citizens to defend democratic norms before it's too late.
How Mumbo-Jumbo Conquered the World
Francis Wheen
A critical examination of the abandonment of Enlightenment values in recent history, exploring the rise of irrationalism and its impact on society. From the Ayatollah Khomeini to Margaret Thatcher, this book delves into the events and figures that have shaped our modern delusions.
How Music Works
David Byrne
A deep dive into the world of music by musician David Byrne. Byrne explores how context shapes music, from the acoustics of venues to the influence of technology and social settings. He examines how these external factors influence the creation, performance, and reception of music across genres and cultures.
How to be a Conservative
Roger Scruton
An exploration of conservative thought and its relevance in the modern world. Scruton examines the truths within various political ideologies and defends conservatism as a rational response to the threats facing Western civilization, emphasizing the importance of preserving inherited good things like freedom, law, and culture.
How to Be an Epicurean
Catherine Wilson
Discover the wisdom of Epicureanism, an ancient philosophy offering practical guidance for modern life. Explore its principles on pleasure, morality, knowledge, and the nature of reality, and learn how to live a meaningful life free from fear and anxiety.
How to Be Black
Baratunde Thurston
A humorous and insightful exploration of black identity in America. Baratunde Thurston navigates the complexities of race, stereotypes, and cultural expectations with wit and candor, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be black in the 21st century.