Soren Kierkegaard, a 19th-century Danish philosopher, is often regarded as a pioneer of existentialism. His work focuses on individual experience, subjectivity, and the complexities of human existence. Although Kierkegaard did not directly address the political and economic systems of colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism, his philosophical insights can be applied to critique these interconnected systems. … Continue reading Echoes of Despair: The Existential Unsustainability of Modern Empires
The Adaptable Educator’s Book Review: The Maya and Their Central American Neighbours by Geoffrey E. Braswell
Geoffrey E. Braswell’s The Maya and Their Central American Neighbours: Settlement Patterns, Architecture, Hieroglyphic Texts and Ceramics is a landmark contribution to Mesoamerican studies, offering an intricate mosaic of interdisciplinary research that examines the interconnectedness of ancient societies in Central America. Braswell curates a volume of essays that blends archaeological, linguistic, and cultural analyses, forging a nuanced … Continue reading The Adaptable Educator’s Book Review: The Maya and Their Central American Neighbours by Geoffrey E. Braswell
Shadows of Power: The Kantian Critique of Colonialism, Nationalism, Imperialism, and Capitalism
Immanuel Kant's philosophy, particularly his ethical and political theories, offers a rich framework for analyzing the interconnectivity and unsustainability of colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism. Here’s how Kantian principles can be applied to these concepts: Interconnectivity: Colonialism and Imperialism: Moral Autonomy and Universal Law: Kant's categorical imperative, which states that one should act only according … Continue reading Shadows of Power: The Kantian Critique of Colonialism, Nationalism, Imperialism, and Capitalism
The Adaptable Educator’s Daily Book Review: Mastering Raku: Making Ware, Glazes, Building Kilns, Firing by Steven Branfman
Steven Branfman’s Mastering Raku is an indispensable treatise on one of the most expressive and dynamic ceramic techniques: raku. As both a technical manual and a philosophical exploration, this book offers a wealth of insights for ceramists, artists, and scholars intrigued by the intersection of fire, earth, and artistry. Bridging History and Practice Branfman masterfully situates raku … Continue reading The Adaptable Educator’s Daily Book Review: Mastering Raku: Making Ware, Glazes, Building Kilns, Firing by Steven Branfman
Shadows of Empire: The Jungian Unconscious Behind Colonialism, Nationalism, Imperialism, and Capitalism
Carl Jung's philosophy, particularly his ideas on the collective unconscious and archetypes, offers a unique lens through which to analyze the interconnectivity and unsustainability of colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism. Jung's understanding of the human psyche can illuminate the deep-seated psychological underpinnings that drive these social and political phenomena, as well as their inherent unsustainability. … Continue reading Shadows of Empire: The Jungian Unconscious Behind Colonialism, Nationalism, Imperialism, and Capitalism
The Adaptable Educartor Daily Book Review – Diego Giacometti by Christian Boutonnet & Rafael Ortiz
Christian Boutonnet and Rafael Ortiz's Diego Giacometti is a stunning tribute to the life and artistry of Diego Giacometti, an artist whose reputation has long been eclipsed by that of his brother, Alberto. This richly illustrated volume brings Diego into the light, positioning him as an equally innovative and compelling figure in the 20th-century art world. At … Continue reading The Adaptable Educartor Daily Book Review – Diego Giacometti by Christian Boutonnet & Rafael Ortiz
Weekend Book Reviews: “Making Ceramic Sculpture: Techniques, Projects, Inspirations” by Raul Acero
In Making Ceramic Sculpture: Techniques, Projects, Inspirations, Raul Acero weaves together the technical precision of a master ceramist with the boundless creativity of a sculptor, offering readers not just a guide, but a profound exploration of the art form itself. This book moves beyond the standard how-to guide, elevating it into a reflective journey on the … Continue reading Weekend Book Reviews: “Making Ceramic Sculpture: Techniques, Projects, Inspirations” by Raul Acero
The Adaptable Educator’s Book Review – Rembrandt 1606–1669: The Mystery of the Revealed Form by Michael Bockemühl
Michael Bockemühl’s Rembrandt 1606–1669: The Mystery of the Revealed Form offers a compelling exploration of the interplay between artistic technique, historical context, and the enigmatic psychological depth of Rembrandt’s works. Through a richly nuanced analysis, Bockemühl situates Rembrandt not merely as a historical figure but as a transcendent artist whose innovative approach reshaped the boundaries of visual … Continue reading The Adaptable Educator’s Book Review – Rembrandt 1606–1669: The Mystery of the Revealed Form by Michael Bockemühl
Weekend Book Reviews: The Symbolic Order: A Contemporary Reader on the Arts Debate by Peter Abbs
Peter Abbs’ The Symbolic Order: A Contemporary Reader on the Arts Debate emerges as a profound intellectual endeavor that seeks to restore the primacy of the arts within contemporary culture and education. With a refined elegance and a sharp critical lens, Abbs dissects the modern tendencies that have alienated the arts from both public discourse and pedagogical … Continue reading Weekend Book Reviews: The Symbolic Order: A Contemporary Reader on the Arts Debate by Peter Abbs
The Adaptable Educator’s Daily Book Review – Blitz Big Book of Cartooning by Bruce Blitz
Bruce Blitz’s Blitz Big Book of Cartooning is a vibrant and comprehensive guide that marries technical instruction with an infectious passion for the art of cartooning. Aimed at artists of all skill levels, the book's unpretentious tone belies the depth of knowledge it offers, making it a remarkable resource for aspiring cartoonists, educators, and even seasoned illustrators … Continue reading The Adaptable Educator’s Daily Book Review – Blitz Big Book of Cartooning by Bruce Blitz
The New Renaissance Mindset 