“The greatest joy of magic lies in searching for it”.

“I probably just want someone to remember who I am. Even if only a little. The purpose of life is to be known and remembered. Only a little. You just need to change someone’s life. That’s all, I’m sure.”

“Your attempts to get to know more about me give me overwhelming bliss.”

If you accept a reward from someone, they will not need to owe you. We are the Hero Party. ﻿What we should desire is to help people, not gain their gratitude. If they were to owe you for it, you would not truly be helping them.

“You wish to reconcile, right? ‘Thoughts’ have to be put into words for them to get across.”

If I sat and died in silence, all I’ve learnt about friendship, strength of will and courage. All those precious memories, we have made will vanish like they’ve never been made

“I’ll tell you the secret to fighting strong enemies. It’s easy, keep getting up and attack them with your moves continuously”

“They gave me the courage to travel and taught me the joy of spending time with friends.”

Frieren – What do you suppose I should do for someone to remember me?Himmel – You should change their life. Even if it’s only in some small way.

The story’s premise centers on an elf and her companions who, after vanquishing the demon king, must adopt a new way of life.

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is a fantasy manga written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe. It has been published since April 28, 2020, and

sciencefiction

Science Fiction

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

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Movies & Shows

artsandculture

Society, Arts & Culture

anime

Anime

Blissful quotes from 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' 

Hate is nature’s most perfect energy source. It’s endlessly renewable.

Every kitten grows up to be a cat. They seem so harmless at first, small, quiet, lapping up their saucer of milk. But once their claws get long enough, they draw blood, sometimes from the hand that feeds them.

The guy who’s a slave to money holds a whip, and pretends to be the master of the slave he bought with his money. He just doesn’t realize it himself. Everyone is a slave to something.

People lie to themselves about three things. They view themselves in implausibly positive ways, they think they have far more control over their lives than they actually do, and they believe the future will be better than the evidence of the present can possibly justify.

Power belongs to the people that take it. Nothing to do with their hard work, strong ambitions, or rightful qualifications, no. The actual will to take is often the only thing that’s necessary.

Everyone’s a wh**e, Grace. We just sell different parts of ourselves.

Be careful. Love is a weapon, dearie. The most dangerous weapon of all, which means the pain you should worry about isn’t the kind inflicted by a broken sword, but the kind that comes from a broken heart.

The more people you love, the weaker you are. You’ll do things for them that you know you shouldn’t do. You’ll act the fool to make them happy, to keep them safe. Love no one but your children. On that front, a mother has no choice.

Power, real power, doesn’t come to those who were born strongest, or fastest, or smartest. No. It comes to those who will do anything to achieve it.

Children grow up thinking the adult world is ordered, rational, fit for purpose. It’s crap. Becoming a man is realizing that it’s all rotten. Realizing how to celebrate that rottenness, that’s freedom.

What can I possible learn from 'Villans'? 😉

Explore thought-provoking villain quotes from movies and TV series, including lines by the Joker, Voldemort, Darth Vader, and others.

Understand yourself and those around you.

psychology

Psychology

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Entertainment

Impactful Quotes from TV Villains pt.2 (▀̿Ĺ̯▀̿ ̿)

According to the Journal of Psychopharmacology: a microdose is ‘1 per cent of the pharmacologically active dose [of any drug], up to a maximum of 100 µg [micrograms]’.In psychedelic microdosing communities, it is 5-10 % of a standard or ‘trippy’ dose of a psychedelic.Dosing amounts for a proper psychedelic trip:  <ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9751063/#:~:text=Based%20on%20several,any%20given%20batch.">2-5 grams</a> of magic mushrooms (psilocybin)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">or <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4813425/#:~:text=%2C%201997)-,(LSD%20%3D%20100).,-One%20of%20the">100-200 micrograms</a> of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)</li></ul>In Microdosing: <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">0.2-0.5 grams of magic mushrooms and </li><li class="ql-align-justify">5-20 micrograms of LSD.</li></ul>(Note that most controlled research studies use psilocybin, the psychoactive molecule in magic mushrooms).

Just what is microdosing?

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Semantics aside, microdosing psychedelics means merely consuming very small amounts of the substance, usually 5-10 % of the standard hallucinatory dose.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Contrary to the <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13634615221119386">popular belief</a>, the aim of microdosing is to obtain whatever psychological and neurological benefits the psychedelic may bestow, but at a level that is perceptually unnoticeable to the consumer.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">if the microdosing occurs on a regular schedule over a period of several weeks to several months, many believe that microdosing can yield benefits equal to what one may gain from a full-dose psychedelic trip.</li></ul>

Objective

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Somewhat like taking a traditional antidepressant, microdosing psychedelics requires adhering to a predetermined dosing regimen, and remaining persistent with it even if benefits are not immediately noticeable.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Microdosing psychedelics, however, does not occur daily but once every couple of days, or perhaps once a week or even every couple of weeks.</li></ul>

In 2022, a comprehensive <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763422001956">review</a> of microdosing was published in the journal Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. It found that microdoses of psychedelics often have subtle but noticeable effects on perception and mental states.Key Findings:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Microdoses commonly cause changes in perception, such as altered mental states and visual distortions.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">People may also experience physical sensations, such as heightened awareness and feelings of bliss.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Microdosing may result in a sense of unity with the world around them.</li></ul>Check out the comprehensive January 2024 findings here ➡ <a href="https://www.psychiatrist.com/pcc/modern-psychedelic-microdosing-research-mental-health-systematic-review/">Review</a>

Effects of microdosing

1. Complete a physical and mental health assessment.Consulting a primary care physician for a checkup can help you evaluate your physical health and uncover any risk factors that psychedelics may exacerbate.A mental health professional can help you evaluate your transient and persistent mental states and any cognitive, emotional and behavioral risk factors susceptible to psychedelic microdosing.Online self-assessment tool here ➡ <a href="https://umatter.princeton.edu/sites/g/files/toruqf2181/files/media/princeton-umatter-wellness-self-assessment.pdf">Link</a>Consider two major attributes when assessing microdosing risks: <ol><li class="ql-align-justify">hallucinogenic effects and </li><li class="ql-align-justify">prolonged exposure to psychedelics.</li></ol>

Guidelines for initiating a sensible microdosing programme:

Hallucinogenic effects: <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Psychedelics can induce hallucinatory experiences, ranging from pleasant to terrifying. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">While they're considered integral to consciousness-expansion, they can trigger psychosis or mania, especially in predisposed individuals. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Clinical trials exclude those with psychotic or manic histories, though <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/02698811211069100">modern trials</a> haven't documented such episodes, indicating lower risk in controlled settings.</li></ul>

Prolonged and repeated exposure:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Repeated exposure to psychedelics, even in microdoses, poses psychological risks, evidenced by reports of negative mental health effects. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Concerns also arise regarding potential cardiovascular side-effects, particularly the risk of valvular heart disease (VHD) due to psychedelics' impact on serotonin receptors. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">While current evidence lacks definitive conclusions, caution is advised until further research clarifies the safety of microdosing on both mental and cardiovascular health.</li></ul>For a more comprehensive review of risk factors and adverse effects ➡ <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/02698811211069100">article</a>

Deciding which substance to use for microdosing can be overwhelming, but some options are more popular and safer than others.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">LSD and magic mushrooms (psilocybin) are the most commonly used substances for microdosing.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0211023&type=printable">Studies</a> have shown that they have a better safety profile and are more widely available than other psychedelics.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you choose LSD or magic mushrooms, you can find more <a href="https://greystonebooks.com/products/psyched">information</a> and connect with others who are also using these substances.</li></ul>Other psychedelics can also be microdosed, but these may have a higher risk and are not as well-studied.

2. Select a substance for microdosing

Pro tip: Check out the 2022 systematic <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763422001956">review</a> for more information on microdosing with LSD and magic mushrooms.

Choosing the right amount to microdose is important for a successful experience. Here are some tips to help you determine how much you should take:<ol><li class="ql-align-justify">Start with a very small amount, ideally between 1-2% of the standard dose for a sub-perceptual experience.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">If you want a mild shift in mental states without a full trip, stick to the 5-10% standard.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">For a light but real psychedelic trip and elevated consciousness, try 15-20%.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Reflect on your experience with full doses of psychedelics to guide your decision.</li></ol>

3. Determine how much to microdose

Procuring psychedelics is typically done via underground methods, so use caution and rely on personal connections rather than social media.Some tips on how to obtain psychedelics for microdosing:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Know the laws: Make sure you are aware of the laws regarding psychedelics in your area before attempting to procure them.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Use personal connections: Reach out to trusted sources in your network to obtain psychedelics rather than relying on risky methods.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Consider legal options: In some places, psychedelics may be decriminalized for specific uses, so consider growing your own psychedelic mushrooms there.</li></ul>

4. Procuring your psychedelics

Why is testing important?<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Recreational drugs like cocaine and MDMA are often laced with fentanyl and other dangerous <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881120953994">adulterants</a>, leading to an increase in overdose cases in the US.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">While fungi and plant-based drugs are less likely to be contaminated with fentanyl, they can still be laced with other harmful substances.</li></ul>This makes it crucial to test any drugs acquired in powder, pill, or liquid form.

5. Testing Your Psychedelics

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Using <a href="https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DOA/CDPH%20Document%20Library/Fact_Sheet_Fentanyl_Testing_Approved_ADA.pdf">fentanyl test strips</a> is a simple and inexpensive way to detect the presence of fentanyl in street drugs. However, they cannot measure potency or confirm the authenticity of the drug.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Drug-specific testing is a more accurate option, but it can be costly. Kits for detecting MDMA and LSD, for example, can range from $20 to $120.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">We recommend purchasing testing kits from trusted sources, such as <a href="https://dancesafe.org/">Dancesafe.org</a> or DrugsData, an independent laboratory based in Sarameto.</li></ul>Personal Note: Search online for similar resources in your country or region which best suit your needs.

How to test?

Storing psychedelics is important while microdosing for a few weeks or months as they can lose potency if not kept properly.Tips for storing psychedelics:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Use airtight containers.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Place in cool, dry, and dark environment.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">For long-term storage, keep LSD and magic mushroom in fridge or freezer.</li></ul>

6. Storing Your Psychedelics

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The best way to discover which microdosing protocol suits you best is simply by trying them out.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">We recommend starting with Fadiman’s Protocol (one day of microdosing followed by two days off) or, if that doesn’t fit your schedule, the Two-days-a-week Protocol. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">‘Stamets stack protocol’ microdoses of: </li></ul>  dried psychedelic mushrooms + Lion’s Mane + Vitamin B3 on a dosing schedule of 4-5 days on and 2-3 days off. This cycle is repeated for 4-6 weeks, followed by a break of 2-6 weeks.

7. Designing a Microdosing Protocol

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The important thing is to become aware of the contrast between an ordinary and a microdosing day. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">To properly investigate what microdosing can do for you, we recommend writing your observations down in a journal or <a href="https://microdosinginstitute.com/how-to/microdose-tracking/">tracking them via an app</a>.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">After your first cycle, or if you experience adverse effects, you can decide to switch to another microdosing protocol.</li></ul>At least a month of microdosing may be necessary to obtain any potential benefits.

By going slow, you give yourself a chance to really know, to really observe what is different, why it’s different, and how you can best take advantage of it. The day you’re completely off is great as a reset day, kind of like clearing the mind/body palate. Then you’re fresh and ready to undertake the experiment again.

Neuroscientist Carl Hart suggests four critical factors to consider: dose, route, set, and setting. To enjoy microdosing, the individual should measure small amounts accurately.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Psychedelic plants and fungi can be weighed with milligram scales. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Microdosing is usually 1/10th to 1/20th of a standard dose. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">LSD, a liquid sold on tiny squares, is nearly impossible to determine its potency. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">A square of LSD = 1 recreational dose (100 micrograms). </li><li class="ql-align-justify">To divide LSD blotters, cut it into 9 equal squares. </li></ul>However, this slightly exceeds the recommended 1/10th to 1/20th amount. Beginners try smaller squares!

8. Carefully measuring and dividing microdoses

If you're new to psychedelics or microdosing, tracking your experience on the first day of microdosing is crucial. This will help you distinguish between hype and reality.While some may experience phenomenal outcomes, the effects are typically more subtle.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Record any negative or positive reactions on the first day of microdosing.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Journal and track other data points throughout your microdosing cycle.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Use tools like <a href="https://microdose.me/index.html">psychometric measures</a> to monitor your experience.</li></ul>Remember: The goal is to be mindful of how you respond to the microdose – manage it effectively on a regular basis.

9. Microdosing: Tracking Microdoses and Effects

According to the article here's a list of conditions in which microdosing is not recommended:<ol><li class="ql-align-justify">Individuals with psychotic disorders or a family history of them.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">People with severe personality disorders.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Anyone who is taking medication that might interact negatively with psychedelics.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">People who have recently had a heart attack or stroke.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Those with uncontrolled hypertension.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Individuals with severe liver or kidney dysfunction.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Anyone with a history of mania or hypomania.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">People with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders.</li></ol>

When microdosing is not recommended

I believe that microdosing can have positive effects on cognition, mental health and happiness, and can be extremely useful for many when used correctly.Psychedelic experiences are esoteric phenomena that humanity grapples with mercurially, as an individual does with complicated emotions like fear and love.The question is: what is the role of microdosing in the context of today?

How to use small doses of psychedelics to lift your mood, enhance your focus, and fire your creativity.

How to use small doses of psychedelics to lift your mood, enhance your focus, and fire your creativity

mindfulness

Mindfulness

mentalhealth

Mental Health

scienceandnature

Science & Nature

A nine-step guide to a sensible microdosing.

"If you don't protect what belongs to you, then sooner or later it belongs to someone else. That goes for your land, your wallet, your home, your country, everything. It is your job as a man to protect it...it's the story of America, the story of whole god damn world. And ain't nothing changing it, not you, not me, nobody!"

"Pain or damage don't end the world. Or despair or f***ing beatings. The world ends when you're dead. Until then, you got more punishment in store. Stand it like a man, and give some back."

"When you have children, you always have family. They will always be your priority, your responsibility, and a man - a man provides. And he does it even when he's not appreciated or respected or even loved. He simply bears up, and he does it because he's a man."

"Chaos isn’t a pit. Chaos is a ladder. Many who try to climb it fail, and never get to try again. The fall breaks them. And some, are given a chance to climb, but they refuse. They cling to the realm, or the Gods, or love. ILLUSIONS. Only the ladder is real, the climb...is all there is."

"I've always found the idea of death comforting. The thought that my life could end at any moment frees me to fully appreciate the beauty and art and horror of everything this world has to offer."

Human emotions are a gift from our animal ancestors, cruelty is a gift humanity has given itself.

A dog who bites every owner he's had, can only be disciplined with a firm hand. Or, put down.

All my life, people have tried to control me. My whole life. Rich people, powerful people have tried to muzzle me, cancel me, keep me impotent and obedient, like I'm a f**king puppet. You know what? It worked. Because I allowed it to work. And guess what. If they can control me, then you can bet your a$$ they can control you. They already do. You just don't realize it. I'm done. I am done apologizing. I am done being persecuted for my strength. I'm not "just like the rest of you." I'm stronger. I'm smarter. I'm better. I am better!

As kids we idolize Heroes.... Growing up, we realize Villains made more sense. And maturing we realize that both are too shallow to truly satisfy our human nature, volatile and always in need of changing.

Villain | TV-Show: Negan Smith (Walking Dead), Gustavo Fring (Breaking Bad), Petyr Baelish (Game of Thrones), «Stringer» Bell / Omar Little /  State Senator R. Clayton «Clay» Davis (The Wire), Homelander (The Boys), Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Hannibal), Al Swearengen (Deadwood), Lorne Malvo (Fargo), Klaus Mikaelson (The Originals), Wilson Fisk (Daredevil), Zemo (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier)

videos

Videos

movies and quotes

QUOTES FROM TV VILLAINS WHO WERE COMPLETELY RIGHT

Impactful quotes from TV VILLAINS (▀̿Ĺ̯▀̿ ̿) pt.1

Learn enough from history to bear reality patiently, and respect one another’s delusions.  – The lessons of history

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When you realize that you – the good, noble, well-meaning, even-tempered, fact-driven person that you are – have views of how the world works that are sure to be incomplete if not completely wrong, you should have empathy for others whose deluded beliefs are obvious to you.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Daniel Kahneman’s rightly observed that we are better at spotting other people’s flaws than our own.</li></ul>

Double edged razor

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Of course there is a limit to respecting other people’s delusions. Delusions that directly harm or impede others shouldn’t be tolerated.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The key here is accepting that everyone is deluded in their own unique way. You, me, all of us.</li></ul>But let me share just three causes of major delusions.And ask yourself: Do you think you are exempt from these forces?

Nothing is as persuasive as what you’ve experienced firsthand.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Since we’ve all had massively different life experiences, what seems obvious to me may be bonkers to you, and vice versa.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Most debates are not really debates; They are two people with different life experiences talking over each other.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Everyone is trying to make sense of the world through the lens of their own experience.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">As those experiences grow everyone’s lens tends to focus on a slightly different version of “truth” in the world – especially for social topics like politics, religion, and investing.</li></ul>

“When the truth is uncertain, our brains resolve uncertainty without our knowledge by creating the most likely reality they can imagine based on our prior experiences.”

Your willingness to believe something is influenced by how much you want and need it to be true.Perception of Belief:Individual beliefs are influenced by personal circumstances and needs. Desperation can lead to susceptibility to unlikely promises, exemplified by the purchase of lottery tickets by low-income individuals seeking hope.Depressive Realism vs. Comforting Delusions:While some hold more realistic views due to depressive realism, most people maintain comforting delusions that shape their beliefs and decisions, often diverging from statistical accuracy.

Incentives and Decision-Making:Decisions are often driven by incentives, even when statistically flawed. Acknowledging this bias is crucial in analyzing one's own justifications and actions.Illusion of Certainty:The illusion of certainty persists until proven wrong, blurring the line between right and wrong beliefs.Another McRaney quote fits well here:“Until we know we are wrong, being wrong feels exactly like being right.”

When there’s an absence of perfect information, emotion, passion, and tribal identity fill the void.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Benford's Law of Controversy suggests that passion inversely correlates with available information, implying that strong emotions often accompany limited understanding.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Emotion tends to fill gaps in knowledge, leading to oversimplified, binary views lacking nuance. Despite varying susceptibility, everyone is prone to this bias.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Amidst ongoing controversy and disagreement, I'm reminded of Durant's advice to patiently acknowledge reality and respect others' beliefs.</li></ul>

The problem with emotion and passion is they tend to be black or white, with no room for the nuance required to understand most topics. You get a false sense of confidence, and one that’s disguised as absolute truth.

Here's why respecting others' delusions can be beneficial for you:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Maintaining Relationships: Respecting someone's delusions can help in maintaining positive relationships. When you acknowledge and respect their beliefs, even if you don't share them, it shows empathy and understanding, which can strengthen your bond with that person.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Avoiding Conflict: Challenging someone's delusions can often lead to conflict or tension. By respecting their beliefs, you can avoid unnecessary arguments and maintain harmony in your interactions.</li></ul>

What's in it for you & me?

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Promoting Open-mindedness: Being respectful of others' delusions can promote open-mindedness and tolerance. It encourages you to consider different perspectives and understand that people's beliefs may be shaped by various factors, including personal experiences, culture, and upbringing.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Building Trust: When you respect someone's delusions, you demonstrate trust in their ability to make their own choices and decisions, even if you don't agree with them. This can foster mutual respect and trust in return.</li></ul>

Learning Opportunity: Engaging with people who hold different beliefs can be a learning opportunity. By respecting their delusions, you might gain insights into their worldview and understanding of the world, which can broaden your own perspective.

<ol><li class="ql-align-justify">Can you think of a time when you've encountered someone with beliefs that seemed delusional to you? How did you handle the situation, and what could you have done differently?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">How can we strike a balance between respecting others' delusions and promoting critical thinking and rationality?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Are there certain contexts or situations where it might be more important to challenge someone's delusions, and if so, how can we approach this respectfully?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">How might cultural or societal factors influence our willingness to respect others' delusions?</li></ol>

Food for thought

People don’t remember books; they remember sentences.

I love the saying that people don’t remember books; they remember sentences.

philosophy

Philosophy

habits

Habits

Respect Each Others’ Delusions

I decided to teach school because I wanted to raise strong comrads, That’s also why I tossed my missions toward my students, It’s tough love.

The Accumulation Of Those Little Despairs Is What Makes A Person An Adult.

Let’s play catch with discarded rice balls while discussing the separation of the church and the state. Lets post a video of it and troll people.

First, only those with a connection to the dead have a right to mourn them. It’s not out place to butt in. And second, if people have died, that’s all the more reason we need to become strong.

I know you had your hardships mechamaru but having more hardships doesn’t make you right.

What makes us obligated to meet such perfection or such absurd demands? Is your entire life just a job? I don't give a damn about 'women' that and 'men' this! You can keep that s*** to yourself. I love myself when i'm pretty and all dressed up! And i love myself when i'm being strong! I am kugisaki nobara!

I don’t care if I’m right or wrong, I just have faith in my good conscious, I will save people to according to my conscious.

Dying to win and risking death to win are completely different things Megumi.

I don’t know if my convictions are right or wrong, makes me think there is no right answer. It’s just whether you can accept it or not, but there’s no accepting anything if you can’t have it your way.

Jujutsu Kaisen is a shounen anime based on a manga about a teenager who becomes a host for a powerful curse.

Impactful Jujutsu Kaisen Quotes that expand your 'wisdom domain'!

“Sometimes you need a little wishful thinking just to keep on living.”

“Part of growing up means finding a way to interact with others while distancing pain.”

“Mankind’s greatest fear is Mankind itself.”

"You hate yourself, don't you? That's why you hurt others. Deep down you know you suffer more when you cause someone else pain... than if you just let yourself get hurt."

“Man fears the darkness, and so he scrapes away at the edges of it with fire.”

"Giving up halfway is worse than never trying at all."

"The thread of human hope is spun with the flax of sorrow."

"Are you afraid of other people? I know that by keeping others at a distance you avoid a betrayal of your trust, for while you may not be hurt that way, you mustn't forget that you must endure the loneliness."

"If you know pain and hardship, it’s easier to be kind to others."

"I still don’t know where to find happiness. But I’ll continue to think about whether it’s good to be here…whether it was good to have been born. But in the end, it’s just realizing the obvious over and over again. Because I am myself."

Neon Genesis Evangelion tackles heavy topics such as human identity, ambition, desire, regret and self-worth. Characters in the series are deeply flawed and spend a lot of time reflecting on personal issues. As such, the show is a goldmine of quotes on the subject of what it means to be human.

Quotes From Neon Genesis Evangelion

René Girard (1923-2015), a critic and social theorist — dedicated his life to exposing the hidden truths behind fashions and trends.Despite his background in literature, Girard's theories have shed light on many societal events happening today. Let's take a closer look:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard's theories explain the underlying motivations behind society's tendencies towards certain fashions and trends.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">He reveals how these trends are often a result of our innate desire to imitate others.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Through literature, he unveils the lies and illusions that perpetuate these trends.</li></ul>

René Girard: Exposing Lies & Trends

"When Girard writes about ancient Greek tragedy, he seems to be describing Instagram and social media. When he analyzes Flaubert or the Book of Genesis, he somehow explicates the current political situation. By looking at what’s old, he clarifies what’s new."

It’s embarrassing to admit, but most of what we do is based on imitating others.Babies and animals mimic others naturally. However, as we get older, we resist seeing ourselves as imitators. We prefer more complex explanations for our actions.According to Girard, imitation is intertwined in all aspects of our lives — from our routines, to our relationships, to our most destructive impulses.Mimetic Desire:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Can be seen in daily rituals.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Affects our institutions and shopping habits.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Is at the root of our violence.</li></ul>

Case in point

Imitation is the economic engine of most businesses—just look at the big social media companies or fashion brands—but it’s always disguised.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Imitation is a powerful force in our world, but it is rarely acknowledged. Its effects are cleverly masked as fashion, trends, and staying up-to-date. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Advertisements never say "Buy this because others are doing it," yet that is the implicit message. In the corporate world, this is known as benchmarking or viral marketing. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Manipulating imitation is the easiest way to control people and it is hidden due to its power.</li></ul>

We need to expose the deadly disguises of imitation, because it causes so much harm.By coveting what our neighbor desires, we invite conflict and rivalry. This plays out in social, political, and economic conflicts, leading to violence and scapegoating. Girard argues that the truthteller has a critical role in exposing this imitative passion.<ul><li>Mimetic rivalry emerges from desiring what others have.</li><li>This pattern can be seen in conflicts of all scales - from love to war.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Those who speak the truth have a crucial responsibility to reveal this dangerous force.</li></ul>

Imitation leads to blood feuds and reciprocal violence—escalating like Mafia wars—which are traditionally resolved by the sacrifice of a scapegoat.In the past, a live animal was sacrificed as a form of ritual. Now, people are blacklisted or cancelled on social media to satisfy the need for a scapegoat.Sacrifice as a Peace Offering: Sacrifices were used to temporarily end conflicts between enemies, shifting the focus to a common target.

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Current Examples: Today, people are cancelled or targeted on social media to serve as scapegoats for larger issues.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Example: After 9/11, political parties focused on (non-existent) weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, instead of each other, creating a temporary ceasefire.</li></ul>

continued..

“Nine-tenths of politics, is choosing the same scapegoat as everyone else.”

The scapegoat combines opposites—and is often both victim and hero, profane and sacred, guilty and innocent, dying and resurrecting.Girard's theory suggests that sacrificial victims, who are treated with admiration and then executed, offer insight into the idolization of modern-day celebrities, influencers.Key Points:<ul><li>Sacrificial victims garner intense emotions, both positive and negative.</li><li>In some cultures, sacrificial victims are transformed into gods.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard believes this relates to the paradoxical worship of celebrities, who face both admiration and criticism.</li></ul>

The persecution of scapegoats is a central force behind organizations and belief systems—but this can never be mentioned.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Witch hunters for example, cannot admit that the witches are innocent victims, because that would destroy their own power base and purpose. </li><li class="ql-align-justify"> He shows that the scapegoat mechanism is the most powerful secret in the world—because it is both necessary to group formation, yet no hint of it can be acknowledged within the group.</li></ul>

Humans fail to perceive own scapegoats—so persecution continues while everybody absolves themselves from guilt.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard is blind to his own complicity in scapegoating, a phenomenon that he even admits affects all individuals. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The instinctive nature of scapegoating suggests that it stems from our competitive tendencies and that we refuse to accept our victim's innocence.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The tendency to scapegoat originates from our competitive nature and the refusal to acknowledge the innocence of our victims.</li></ul>

Our most violent impulses are stirred up by similarity, not difference.Our Desires Are Fueled by Imitation and Can Lead to Conflict:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When we mimic others, we often find ourselves in bitter conflicts with them. This is because we want what they have and vice versa. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">This is especially true when we live together, with barriers between us slowly eroding away. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">For instance, animosity towards immigrants increases when they move into our neighborhoods, join our country clubs, or even show up at our doorstep.</li></ul>

Our Differences Are a Source of Violence, But Sameness is Even More Dangerous<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard believes that violence stems from the erosion of differences, rather than the differences themselves. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In fact, total sameness can be even more dangerous. This is evident in many myths, such as battles between twins, siblings, or the role of the ‘double’ in literature. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">If we were to meet our exact duplicate, it’s likely that we would want to eliminate them.</li></ul>

Enemies resemble each other, because of mimetic rivalry, but this is another secret that cannot be mentioned.<ul><li>In sports and life, rivals often share more in common than they realize. They become "enemies" in pursuit of the same goal, but years later may recognize their similarities. </li><li>This happens everywhere, but the concept of a nemesis proves more valuable than scapegoating.</li></ul>

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Rivalries in sports (Bird vs. Magic, Ali vs. Frazier) mimic opponents must be enemies, though they share the same goal and lifestyle.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The same principle applies in other areas of life, where opposing forces are not allowed to see their shared characteristics.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Blaming enemies for all ills may provide a convenient worldview, yet understanding the nemesis proves a more effective solution.</li></ul>

examples

Artistic idioms often originate in imitation and ritualized sacrifice.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard doesn't often talk about entertainment, but his ideas have a lot to say about performers and critics. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">For instance, consider dancing as a form of imitation, which intensifies the pleasure for both dancers and viewers. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">These ideas apply to all forms of entertainment, from jazz sessions to fans imitating their idols' hairstyles.</li></ul>

Our culture rightly celebrates the help and defense of victims, but we need to be vigilant against a ‘super-victimology’ in which this merely leads to targeting and punishing new scapegoats.All too often, we are forced into the role of either victim or oppressor in situations of violence. However, it's important to break free from these harmful roles and find a more neutral way of handling conflict.<ul><li>Don't play the victim</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Avoid being an oppressor</li></ul>

We can escape the endless cycles of reciprocal violence—but only by rising above our impulse to vengeance and working instead to delegitimize the drive to punish and scapegoat.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard argues that understanding violence can lead to its rejection. However, violence is often disguised as vengeance, causing harm to society. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">We must reject this propaganda and seek peaceful ways of living together.</li></ul>

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Our instinct is to respond to violence with violence, but the higher path is to reject scapegoating and revenge.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Girard warns that modern scapegoating rituals are now ineffective in bringing catharsis.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Meanwhile, technology continues to make destructive capabilities more accessible.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Therefore, our only safe path forward is to choose love and forgiveness in a world where sacrificial rituals no longer hold power.</li></ul>

How a thinker who hated trends & fashions became trendy & fashionable!

How a thinker who hated trends & fashions became trendy & fashionable

education

Learning & Education

12 Things I Learned from René Girard

“Cinema is the ultimate pervert art. It doesn't give you what you desire - it tells you how to desire.”

“The threat today is not passivity, but pseudo-activity, the urge to "be active", to "participate", to mask the Nothingness of what goes on.”

“I think boredom is the beginning of every authentic act. (...) Boredom opens up the space, for new engagements. Without boredom, no creativity. If you are not bored, you just stupidly enjoy the situation in which you are.”

“Love feels like a great misfortune, a monstrous parasite, a permanent state of emergency that ruins all small pleasures.”

“I agree with Sophocles: the greatest luck is not to have been born - but, as the joke goes on, very few people succeed in it.”

“Humanity is OK, but 99% of people are boring idiots.”

sharing some provocative ideas from Slavoj Žižek on his 75th birthday (March 21st)

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<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Luke Burgis, founder of Fourth Wall Ventures, highlights the concept of mimetic desire, wherein individuals unconsciously adopt the desires of others, often without realizing it. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">With the proliferation of social media, we are exposed to countless mimetic models: </li></ul><ol><li class="ql-align-justify"> external (those outside our immediate circle) and </li><li class="ql-align-justify">internal (those within our social sphere). </li></ol><ul><li class="ql-align-justify">This inundation of models can lead to comparison, envy, and a perpetual cycle of desire.</li></ul>

Social Media's Influence on Mimetic Desire:

"Mimetic desire means that we're adopting another person's desire as our own, usually without even realizing that we're doing it."

<ul><li>Burgis emphasizes the importance of discernment in choosing our mimetic models. </li><li>While having positive role models is beneficial, it's crucial to recognize the limitations of any model and discern whether their lifestyle or desires align with our values and aspirations. </li><li>By understanding the dynamics of mimetic desire, we can avoid falling into the trap of perpetual comparison and focus on pursuing fulfillment rather than fleeting desires.</li></ul>He recommends:<ol><li> to get offline once in a while</li><li>to have conversations with your family, close friends, with your neighbors, with your community. </li></ol>

Managing Mimetic Desire Wisely

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Amishi Jha, a neuroscientist, delves into the complexities of attention management in today's digital landscape. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Our attention is a precious resource, essential for cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, and meaningful social connections. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">However, factors such as stress, negative mood, and the allure of novel or enticing information can hijack our attention, leading to distraction and cognitive overload.</li></ul>

Attention Management in the Digital Age:

"Everything is being done by teams of engineers to actually capture your attention and keep it there; your attention is the product."

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Meta-awareness, according to Amishi Jha, refers to the ability to be aware of the content and processes of what is going on in our minds moment by moment.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">It involves paying attention to our attention, observing our thoughts, emotions, and mental processes without becoming entangled or overwhelmed by them.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"> By cultivating meta-awareness through mindfulness meditation, individuals can strengthen their attention and regain control over their mental processes.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">This enables us to foster resilience and focus on the face of distractions.</li></ul>

Practicing meta-awareness via mindfulness for Attention Enhancement

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">quit social media for good!</li><li class="ql-align-justify">use a flip phone as an alternative to smartphones for distraction free tech time.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Use apps that set time limits to your social media use.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Intentionally set aside a time slot in your weeks plans to spend time with close ones or alone without tech, via long walks, attend a concert, movie, play, sport event, or play irl games with others!</li></ul>

Bonus tips from YouTube comments

In this Big Think video, Luke Burgis, Todd Rose, and Amishi Jha explore the intricacies of social media's influence on human desires, opinion, attention, and overall mental health.

Stop data brokers from exposing your personal information. Go to our sponsor https://aura.com/bigthink to get a 14-day free trial and see how much of yours is being sold.

In this Big Think video, Luke Burgis, Todd Rose , and Amishi Jha explore the intricacies of social media's influence on human desires, opinion, attention, and overall mental health.

The discussion encompasses the enticing nature of rapid opinion formation, the concept of mimetic desire and its amplification through digital platforms, and the profound implications of the 'Attention Economy' where user focus is commodified. They address the creation and consequences of digital illusions, offering a nuanced examination of social media's dual role as both a democratizing force and a potential source of toxicity. 

Through their analysis, Burgis and Jha provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges posed by online interactions and suggest mindfulness as a tool for individuals to regain control over their attention and desires in an increasingly digital world. This presentation serves as a critical reflection on the modern digital landscape and its effects on society.

Subscribe to Big Think on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvQECJukTDE2i6aCoMnS-Vg?sub_confirmation=1

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About Luke Burgis:

Luke Burgis is a veteran entrepreneur and author. He’s the Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Ciocca Center for Principled Entrepreneurship in Washington, DC, and the founder of Fourth Wall Ventures, an incubator that invests in people, art, and technology that contribute to a healthy human ecology. Luke studied business at NYU Stern before doing graduate work in philosophy and earning an S.T.B. in Theology from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. He’s the author of the book Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life, which popularized the work of cultural anthropologist René Girard. He lives with his wife, Claire, in the DC area.


About Todd Rose:

Todd Rose is the co-founder and president of Populace, a think tank committed to ensuring that all people have the opportunity to pursue fulfilling lives in a thriving society. Prior to Populace, he was a faculty member at Harvard University where he founded the Laboratory for the Science of Individuality and directed the Mind, Brain, and Education program. Todd is the best selling author of Collective Illusions, Dark Horse, and The End of Average. He lives in Burlington, Massachusetts.


About Amishi Jha:

Dr. Amishi Jha is an internationally renowned neuroscience researcher, speaker, and author in the fields of attention, resilience, and mindfulness. She studies how to keep the brain’s attention systems in peak shape over high-pressure intervals. Over the past two decades, she has conducted large-scale studies with the US Military, first responders, medical professionals, business leaders, elite sports teams, and more. Her research reveals that the science is clear: You can change your brain to become more attentive, present, and productive.

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