Resources

The definitive explanation of what Ellul called "la technique" - the ideology of optimization and efficiency that drives modern civilization.

Fromm explains why modern life makes us miserable, and what we can do about it.

Illich provides a compelling and logical indictment of institutional education, along with a passionate argument for self-directed learning. A template for thinking about any institution that has become its own end.

A fundamental introduction to the concept of the core human drives of Eros and Thanatos: creation and destruction.

Illich's central thesis is that technology can either enable institutional oppression, or aid personal freedom and creativity. Written in the pre-AI era, this slim volume is required reading for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of how our tools shape us.

Frankl survived a Nazi concentration camp and emerged with the concept that meaning, not pleasure, is the primary human motivation. More relevant than ever in a culture of distraction.

By the end of his career, Maslow - most famous for the "hierarchy of needs" taught in every Psychology 101 class - had shifted his focus to questions of meaning, fulfillment, and personal development. The essays in this posthumous collection are occasionally controversial and always thought-provoking.

Written by one of his best students and closest professional associates, this concise volume is an excellent introduction to Jung's groundbreaking theories of the collective unconscious, archetypes, dream analysis, and more.

If you're a man, this is the instruction manual you've needed since you were 12 years old. If you're a woman, this is the book that will help you explain to the men in your life the things they don't understand. While most books on psychology are nothing more than the author's opinion, Dr. Gottman and his team present the findings of rigorously researched science.

Postman explains how technology has fragmented communication, leading to the general public's inability to manage complexity or engage in rational discourse.

The definitive account of the collapse of community in America. Putnam's research focused on the impact of television, but extends seamlessly into the smartphone era.

Written for an audience of advertising professionals, this fascinating book is actually a terrific introduction to both the principles of neuroscience AND the way that consumer culture touches and influences every aspect of our lives. Reading it is a great way to learn more about how your brain works, as well as why you make many of the buying decisions you do.

The original and still the best reference on predicting and avoiding violence. In clear, easy-to-follow language, Gavin de Becker describes the behaviors and "pre-incident indicators" that foreshadow violence at home, on the street, and in the workplace. The author's premise - that your autonomic nervous system will instinctively notice danger far before your analytical mind acknowledges it - can be life-changing. This book is a must-read for anyone who wonders about how to detect and avoid predatory criminals, unstable employees, stalkers, and domestic abusers.

"Left of Bang" picks up where "The Gift of Fear" leaves off. Writing primarily for an audience of military and law-enforcement personnel, the authors break down into bite-sized chunks the information needed to help you make sense of the danger signals you might be observing, but not comprehending. While this book is intended for readers who are often in dangerous situations, its lessons on psychology and human nature are valuable for anyone.

After years of back, neck, and knee pain, I decided to work on my flexibility. Not in the usual BS "stretching" way from gym class, but using science-based resistance stretching. I bought this book, because it was the only one I could find at the time. To my astonishment, literally all the pain went away in a matter of weeks. "The Genius of Flexibility" is worth every penny. Really.

It is almost always preferable to resolve a conflict verbally, rather than physically. It's even better to avoid the conflict altogether. Originally written for police officers and other professionals for whom achieving voluntary compliance can be a daily struggle, "Verbal Judo" is a treasure trove of practical advice on interpersonal communication. Largely based on the author's own experiences and unique observations, the book contains insightful and systematic techniques on everything from how to convince an uncooperative suspect to make a good choice, to how to argue effectively with a spouse.

If you've ever wondered what you'd do in a sudden emergency, you need to read this. Written by an experienced journalist, this exhaustively-researched but highly engaging little book explores the surprising ways that normal people respond to dangerous situations, and gives practical suggestions on improving your own responses - and thereby improving your chances for survival.

We spend most of our days on autopilot, following routines we're barely even aware of. "The Power of Habit" provides a fascinating look at the way those routines are created and maintained, and - more importantly - how we can harness them to move us closer to our goals.