#2465 - Michael Shellenberger

This book is a collection of lectures delivered by William James at the University of Edinburgh between 1901 and 1902. It focuses on the personal and subjective aspects of religious experiences, rather than on theology or organized religion. James examines various types of religious experiences, including healthy-mindedness, the sick soul, conversion, mysticism, and saintliness. He emphasizes the importance of feeling and personal experience in religion, arguing that these experiences are the primary source of religious beliefs and practices. The book also discusses the psychological and philosophical implications of these experiences, highlighting their complexity and life-altering nature.

In 'San Fransicko,' Michael Shellenberger argues that progressive policies have exacerbated problems like homelessness, drug addiction, and crime in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Portland. Despite advocating for decriminalization of drugs and affordable housing, Shellenberger discovered that these policies have enabled rather than solved these issues. He contends that the underlying problem is an ideology that designates certain individuals as victims entitled to destructive behaviors, undermining the values necessary for functioning cities and civilization. The book compares the approaches of West Coast cities with those of other cities like New York and Washington D.C. , highlighting more effective strategies for addressing homelessness and addiction.