Non-fiction books I've read or am currently reading (click on title to read more about each book)
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1. Free Will
Harris dismantles the concept of free will with precision, arguing that our sense of choice is a convincing illusion generated by unconscious neurological processes. What makes this short book remarkable is not just the destruction of a cherished belief, but the careful reconstruction that follows—showing how recognizing this truth enhances rather than diminishes our moral framework, compassion, and understanding of criminal justice. On a personal note, the book opened my eyes to the question of how man can be guilty of sin without free will, and led me to a hunt for possible philosophical solutions to that problem. It gave a jolt to my faith but in the end my faith was strengthened when I embraced that question instead of avoiding it. -
2. History of the Dark Ages
Currently reading. Oman charts the tumultuous centuries from Rome's fall (476 AD) through the Viking invasions (918 AD)—a period less "dark" than transformative. Germanic kingdoms rise and fall, monasteries preserve classical knowledge, and the seeds of medieval Europe take root amid constant warfare and political fragmentation. Written with Victorian clarity but remarkable attention to primary sources. Read online → -
3. Introduction to Modern Economic Growth
Currently reading. The comprehensive textbook on growth theory from one of economics' leading thinkers. Acemoglu synthesizes decades of research into why some nations prosper while others stagnate, emphasizing institutions, technology, and political economy over simple capital accumulation models. -
4. The House of War
Currently reading. A military historian's perspective on the Islamic world's complex relationship with the West, drawing on Mayall's extensive experience as a senior British military officer and Middle East expert. Explores the historical, religious, and geopolitical forces shaping modern conflicts in the region. -
5. The Dream of Rome
Johnson's energetic meditation on whether the European Union can replicate Rome's achievement: uniting diverse peoples under common identity and law. Written with characteristic wit and classical erudition, it asks whether modern bureaucracy can match ancient conquest in forging unity—and whether that unity is even desirable. More prescient after Brexit than when written. A simple yet adequate read for those just getting into Roman History. -
6. The Churchill Factor
Currently reading. Johnson's exuberant biography of Winston Churchill, arguing that Britain's survival in 1940 hinged on one man's bloody-minded refusal to contemplate defeat. More than hagiography, it's an exploration of how individual character can bend the arc of history—written by a politician who clearly sees himself in Churchill's mold. Entertaining, provocative, and unapologetically personal. -
7. The Discovery of the Source of the Nile
Speke's firsthand account of solving one of geography's greatest mysteries: where does the Nile begin? His 1860s expeditions through East Africa—navigating tribal politics, disease, and rivalry with Richard Burton—culminated in reaching Lake Victoria. A primary source revealing both Victorian exploration's achievements and its imperial assumptions. Read online → -
8. Writing in English at University PDF
Currently reading. A systematic guide addressing the specific challenges faced by non-native English speakers in academic contexts. Covers everything from sentence structure and verb tenses to argumentation patterns and citation conventions, with awareness that many writing "rules" aren't universal but culturally specific. View PDF →