Secular

  • A People’s History of the United States – Howard Zinn

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    1. Full Citation Zinn, H. (1980) A People’s History of the United States. New York: Harper & Row. 2. Introduction A People’s History of the United States offers a critical retelling of American history from the perspective of marginalized groups, challenging traditional narratives centered on political and economic elites. Howard…

  • Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow – Yuval Noah Harari

    1. Full Citation Harari, Y.N. (2017) Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow. London: Harvill Secker. 2. Introduction Homo Deus explores potential futures for humanity, examining the impact of technological advancement, artificial intelligence, and bioengineering on society, ethics, and human identity. Harari speculates on the next evolutionary stages and challenges…

  • Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice – Bill Browder

    1. Full Citation Browder, B. (2015) Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice. New York: Simon & Schuster. 2. Introduction Red Notice is a gripping memoir and exposé detailing Bill Browder’s experiences as a financier in Russia, his fight against corruption, and…

  • Between the World and Me – Ta-Nehisi Coates

    1. Full Citation Coates, T.-N. (2015) Between the World and Me. New York: Spiegel & Grau. 2. Introduction Between the World and Me is a profound letter from Ta-Nehisi Coates to his teenage son, exploring the realities of race, identity, and systemic injustice in America. The book blends personal narrative…

  • The Silk Roads: A New History of the World – Peter Frankopan

    1. Full Citation Frankopan, P. (2015) The Silk Roads: A New History of the World. London: Bloomsbury Publishing. 2. Introduction The Silk Roads reorients world history by focusing on the importance of the East and Central Asia in shaping global civilizations through the Silk Road trade routes. Peter Frankopan offers…

  • The Wright Brothers – David McCullough

    1. Full Citation McCullough, D. (2015) The Wright Brothers. New York: Simon & Schuster. 2. Introduction The Wright Brothers chronicles the lives and achievements of Orville and Wilbur Wright, pioneers of powered flight. David McCullough details their innovation, determination, and the impact of their invention on modern aviation and technology.…

  • The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz – Erik Larson

    1. Full Citation Larson, E. (2020) The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz. New York: Crown Publishing Group. 2. Introduction The Splendid and the Vile offers a detailed narrative of Winston Churchill’s leadership during the London Blitz in World War II. Erik…

  • The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration – Isabel Wilkerson

    1. Full Citation Wilkerson, I. (2010) The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration. New York: Random House. 2. Introduction The Warmth of Other Suns chronicles the Great Migration of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers in the North and West between 1915…

  • The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775–1777 – Rick Atkinson

    1. Full Citation Atkinson, R. (2019) The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775–1777. New York: Henry Holt and Co. 2. Introduction The British Are Coming is the first volume of Rick Atkinson’s comprehensive trilogy on the American Revolutionary War. It covers the early years of…

  • The Storm Before the Storm – Mike Duncan

    The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic – Mike Duncan 1. Full Citation Duncan, M. (2017) The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic. New York: PublicAffairs. 2. Introduction The Storm Before the Storm explores the political…

  • What Is History? – Edward Hallett Carr

    1. Full Citation Carr, E.H. (1961) What Is History?. London: Macmillan. 2. Introduction What Is History? is a foundational work in historiography, exploring the nature of historical knowledge, the role of the historian, and the interpretation of past events. Edward Hallett Carr critically examines how history is constructed and understood.…

  • Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert B. Cialdini

    1. Full Citation Cialdini, R.B. (1984) Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. New York: Harper Business. 2. Introduction Influence explores the psychology behind why people say “yes” and how compliance techniques can be used ethically or manipulatively. Robert Cialdini identifies six key principles of persuasion that govern human behavior in social…

  • The Interpretation of Dreams – Sigmund Freud

    1. Full Citation Freud, S. (1900) The Interpretation of Dreams [Die Traumdeutung]. Vienna: Franz Deuticke. 2. Introduction The Interpretation of Dreams is a foundational text in psychoanalysis, where Sigmund Freud introduces his theory that dreams are expressions of unconscious desires and conflicts. The book outlines methods for decoding dreams to…

  • Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ – Daniel Goleman

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    1. Full Citation Goleman, D. (1995) Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. New York: Bantam Books. 2. Introduction Emotional Intelligence explores the concept of emotional intelligence (EI) — the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions — and argues its critical role in personal and professional success,…

  • Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions – Dan Ariely

    1. Full Citation Ariely, D. (2008) Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions. New York: HarperCollins. 2. Introduction Predictably Irrational explores the systematic and predictable ways in which humans deviate from rational decision-making. Dan Ariely reveals cognitive biases and emotional influences that shape choices in everyday life. 3.…

  • The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference – Malcolm Gladwell

    1. Full Citation Gladwell, M. (2000) The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference. New York: Little, Brown. 2. Introduction The Tipping Point investigates how small, seemingly insignificant factors can trigger large-scale social changes and trends. Malcolm Gladwell explores concepts such as the Law of the Few,…

  • Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me) – Carol Tavris & Elliot Aronson

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    Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts – Carol Tavris & Elliot Aronson 1. Full Citation Tavris, C., & Aronson, E. (2007) Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts. New…

  • The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom – Jonathan Haidt

    1. Full Citation Haidt, J. (2006) The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom. New York: Basic Books. 2. Introduction The Happiness Hypothesis explores enduring ideas about happiness and meaning from ancient philosophy and psychology, synthesizing them with contemporary scientific research. Jonathan Haidt investigates how ancient wisdom can inform…

  • HBlink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking – Malcolm Gladwell

    📚 Academic Book Review 1. Full Citation Gladwell, M. (2005) Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking. New York: Little, Brown. 2. Introduction Blink explores the power and pitfalls of rapid cognition — the ability of the brain to make quick judgments and decisions without conscious deliberation. Malcolm Gladwell examines…

  • Outliers: The Story of Success – Malcolm Gladwell

    1. Full Citation Gladwell, M. (2008) Outliers: The Story of Success. New York: Little, Brown. 2. Introduction Outliers examines the factors that contribute to high levels of success, challenging the notion of individual merit alone. Malcolm Gladwell explores cultural background, timing, opportunity, and practice as key influences on achievement. 3.…

  • The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk

    The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Bessel van der Kolk 1. Full Citation Van der Kolk, B.A. (2014) The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. New York: Viking. 2. Introduction The Body Keeps the…

  • Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance – Angela Duckworth

    1. Full Citation Duckworth, A. (2016) Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. New York: Scribner. 2. Introduction Grit explores the role of sustained passion and perseverance in achieving long-term goals. Angela Duckworth argues that grit, more than talent or intelligence, is a critical predictor of success across domains. 3.…

  • The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less – Barry Schwartz

    1. Full Citation Schwartz, B. (2004) The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less. New York: Harper Perennial. 2. Introduction The Paradox of Choice examines how having too many options can lead to anxiety, dissatisfaction, and decision paralysis. Barry Schwartz explores the psychological consequences of abundance and the trade-offs involved…

  • How to Change Your Mind – Michael Pollan

    How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence – Michael Pollan 1. Full Citation Pollan, M. (2018) How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence. New…

  • The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character, and Achievement – Elliot Aronson

    1. Full Citation Aronson, E. (2011) The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character, and Achievement (10th ed.). New York: Worth Publishers. 2. Introduction The Social Animal provides an in-depth exploration of social psychology, examining how human behavior is shaped by interpersonal relationships, social influences, and unconscious processes. Elliot…

  • The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil – Philip Zimbardo

    1. Full Citation Zimbardo, P.G. (2007) The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil. New York: Random House. 2. Introduction The Lucifer Effect explores the psychological mechanisms and situational forces that lead ordinary individuals to commit evil acts. Philip Zimbardo, renowned for the Stanford Prison Experiment, examines how context…

  • Meditations – Marcus Aurelius

    1. Full Citation Marcus Aurelius (c. 180 CE) Meditations [translated by Gregory Hays, 2002]. New York: Modern Library. 2. Introduction Meditations is a collection of personal writings by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, reflecting his Stoic philosophy and practical guidance on virtue, self-discipline, and rationality. It remains a seminal work in…

  • The Republic – Plato

    1. Full Citation Plato (c. 380 BCE) The Republic, translated by Allan Bloom (1968). New York: Basic Books. 2. Introduction The Republic is Plato’s seminal philosophical dialogue exploring justice, the ideal state, and the nature of the soul. It sets foundational principles for political philosophy, ethics, and epistemology. 3. Author…

  • Nicomachean Ethics – Aristotle

    1. Full Citation Aristotle (c. 350 BCE) Nicomachean Ethics, translated by Terence Irwin (1999). Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company. 2. Introduction Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle’s foundational work on virtue ethics, exploring the nature of the good life, moral virtue, and practical wisdom (phronesis). It remains central to ethical theory and philosophy.…

  • Thus Spoke Zarathustra – Friedrich Nietzsche

    1. Full Citation Nietzsche, F. (1883–1885) Thus Spoke Zarathustra: A Book for All and None, translated by Walter Kaufmann (1954). New York: Modern Library. 2. Introduction Thus Spoke Zarathustra is Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophical novel exploring themes of the Übermensch (Overman), eternal recurrence, and the death of God. Presented as a…

  • Critique of Pure Reason – Immanuel Kant

    1. Full Citation Kant, I. (1781; 2nd ed. 1787) Critique of Pure Reason, translated by Paul Guyer and Allen W. Wood (1998). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 2. Introduction Critique of Pure Reason is Immanuel Kant’s foundational work in epistemology and metaphysics, seeking to resolve the conflict between rationalism and empiricism.…

  • Being and Time – Martin Heidegger

    1. Full Citation Heidegger, M. (1927) Being and Time [Sein und Zeit], translated by John Macquarrie and Edward Robinson (1962). New York: Harper & Row. 2. Introduction Being and Time is Martin Heidegger’s magnum opus that profoundly influenced existentialism and phenomenology. The book investigates the nature of Being (Sein), human…

  • The Phenomenology of Spirit – Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel

    1. Full Citation Hegel, G.W.F. (1807) The Phenomenology of Spirit [Phänomenologie des Geistes], translated by A.V. Miller (1977). Oxford: Oxford University Press. 2. Introduction The Phenomenology of Spirit is Hegel’s foundational work exploring the development of consciousness from sense experience to absolute knowledge. It presents a dialectical process illustrating how…

  • Beyond Good and Evil – Friedrich Nietzsche

    1. Full Citation Nietzsche, F. (1886) Beyond Good and Evil: Prelude to a Philosophy of the Future, translated by Walter Kaufmann (1966). New York: Vintage Books. 2. Introduction Beyond Good and Evil critiques traditional moral values and explores the genealogy of morality, advocating for the reevaluation of ethical concepts beyond…

  • The Prince – Niccolò Machiavelli

    1. Full Citation Machiavelli, N. (1532) The Prince, translated by Harvey C. Mansfield (1985). Chicago: University of Chicago Press. 2. Introduction The Prince is a foundational work of political philosophy and realpolitik. Machiavelli offers pragmatic advice on power acquisition and maintenance, often divorced from traditional morality, influencing modern political theory.…

  • Leviathan – Thomas Hobbes

    1. Full Citation Hobbes, T. (1651) Leviathan, edited by C.B. Macpherson (1968). Harmondsworth: Penguin Classics. 2. Introduction Leviathan is a foundational text in political philosophy that argues for the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent societal chaos. Thomas Hobbes develops his social contract theory, positing the state as…

  • Discourse on Method – René Descartes

    1. Full Citation Descartes, R. (1637) Discourse on Method, translated by Ian Maclean (2006). Oxford: Oxford University Press. 2. Introduction Discourse on Method is René Descartes’ foundational work outlining a new approach to philosophy and scientific inquiry based on doubt and rationalism. It introduces the famous dictum “Cogito, ergo sum”…

  • The Art of War – Sun Tzu

    1. Full Citation Sun Tzu (5th century BCE) The Art of War, translated by Samuel B. Griffith (1963). Oxford: Oxford University Press. 2. Introduction The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise offering strategic principles applicable beyond warfare, including leadership, conflict resolution, and organisational strategy. It remains influential…

  • Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu

    1. Full Citation Lao Tzu (6th century BCE, traditionally) Tao Te Ching, translated by D.C. Lau (1963). London: Penguin Classics. 2. Introduction The Tao Te Ching is a foundational text of Taoism, offering poetic reflections on the Tao (the Way), virtue, and harmony with nature. Its concise verses provide philosophical…

  • The Story of Philosophy – Will Durant

    1. Full Citation Durant, W. (1926) The Story of Philosophy. New York: Simon & Schuster. 2. Introduction The Story of Philosophy is a comprehensive overview of Western philosophy, presenting accessible biographies and summaries of major philosophers and their ideas. Will Durant aims to popularize philosophy for general readers. 3. Author…

  • OpenAI vs Microsoft: Strategic Tensions and the Future of AI Collaboration

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    Abstract The partnership between Microsoft and OpenAI, once perceived as a model of synergy in the generative artificial intelligence (AI) domain, has entered a phase characterised by strategic discord. This article examines the origins and escalation of their dispute, focusing on intellectual property rights, cloud service exclusivity, and corporate autonomy.…

  • The Strategic, Economic, and Ethical Dimensions of Open-Source AI in the Contemporary Landscape

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    Abstract Recent developments in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, particularly the evolving dynamics between Microsoft and OpenAI, have cast a spotlight on broader industry trends—including the rise of open-source AI. This article examines the historical tensions behind the Microsoft–OpenAI partnership, the implications for the AI ecosystem, and the growing relevance…

  • Letters from a Stoic – Seneca

    1. Full Citation Seneca, L.A. (c. 65 CE) Letters from a Stoic [Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium], translated by Robin Campbell (1969). London: Penguin Classics. 2. Introduction Letters from a Stoic is a collection of moral epistles written by Seneca to his friend Lucilius, presenting practical Stoic philosophy on ethics, virtue,…

  • The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living – Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman

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    1. Full Citation Holiday, R., & Hanselman, S. (2016) The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living. San Francisco: Portfolio. 2. Introduction The Daily Stoic offers daily reflections and meditations drawn from the works of classical Stoic philosophers, adapted for modern readers. Ryan Holiday presents…

  • A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy – William B. Irvine

    1. Full Citation Irvine, W.B. (2008) A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy. New York: Oxford University Press. 2. Introduction A Guide to the Good Life presents Stoicism as a practical philosophy for modern living, focusing on achieving tranquility and joy by managing desires and…

  • The Last Lecture – Randy Pausch

    1. Full Citation Pausch, R., & Zaslow, J. (2008) The Last Lecture. New York: Hyperion. 2. Introduction The Last Lecture is a memoir and motivational book based on a lecture given by computer science professor Randy Pausch after his terminal cancer diagnosis. It explores themes of legacy, life lessons, and…

  • Plato at the Googleplex: Why Philosophy Won’t Go Away – Rebecca Goldstein

    1. Full Citation Goldstein, R. (2014) Plato at the Googleplex: Why Philosophy Won’t Go Away. New York: Pantheon Books. 2. Introduction Plato at the Googleplex is a contemporary philosophical exploration blending classical philosophy with modern culture and technology. Rebecca Goldstein engages with Plato’s ideas and their relevance in the digital…

  • Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius – Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman

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    1. Full Citation Holiday, R., & Hanselman, S. (2020) Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius. New York: Portfolio. 2. Introduction Lives of the Stoics provides biographical sketches of prominent Stoic philosophers, tracing their lives, teachings, and applications of Stoicism in practical living. Ryan…

  • Dog Man Series – Dav Pilkey

    1. Full Citation Pilkey, D. (2016–present) Dog Man series. New York: Graphix (an imprint of Scholastic). 2. Introduction The Dog Man series is a bestselling graphic novel collection combining humor, action, and themes of friendship and justice. Created by Dav Pilkey, it appeals especially to early and middle-grade readers, promoting…

  • The Wonky Donkey – Craig Smith

    1. Full Citation Smith, C. (2009) The Wonky Donkey. New Zealand: Penguin Random House. 2. Introduction The Wonky Donkey is a viral and popular children’s picture book known for its catchy rhymes and humorous story about a donkey with quirky characteristics. Its appeal lies in its rhythmic text and engaging…

  • The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! – Mo Willems

    1. Full Citation Willems, M. (2024) The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. 2. Introduction The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! is the latest book in Mo Willems’ popular Pigeon series. It humorously addresses common school anxieties through the expressive and relatable character…

  • Narwhal and Jelly Series – Ben Clanton

    1. Full Citation Clanton, B. (2017–present) Narwhal and Jelly series. New York: Tundra Books. 2. Introduction The Narwhal and Jelly series is a charming graphic novel collection for early readers, celebrating friendship, curiosity, and adventure through the underwater escapades of its titular characters. 3. Author Background and Credentials Ben Clanton…

  • Dragons Love Tacos – Adam Rubin

    1. Full Citation Rubin, A. (2012) Dragons Love Tacos. New York: Dial Books. 2. Introduction Dragons Love Tacos is a humorous and imaginative picture book that tells the story of dragons’ love for tacos and the comedic chaos that ensues when spicy salsa enters the scene. Its playful narrative and…

  • I Am Enough – Grace Byers

    1. Full Citation Byers, G. (2018) I Am Enough. New York: Balzer + Bray. 2. Introduction I Am Enough is an inspirational picture book that promotes self-confidence, self-love, and acceptance. Grace Byers delivers a heartfelt message encouraging children to embrace their uniqueness and inherent worth. 3. Author Background and Credentials…

  • Ada Twist, Scientist – Andrea Beaty

    1. Full Citation Beaty, A. (2016) Ada Twist, Scientist. New York: Abrams Books for Young Readers. 2. Introduction Ada Twist, Scientist is a STEM-focused picture book celebrating curiosity, scientific inquiry, and perseverance through the story of a young girl named Ada who loves to explore and understand the world around…

  • The Day the Crayons Quit – Drew Daywalt

    1. Full Citation Daywalt, D. (2013) The Day the Crayons Quit. New York: Penguin Young Readers Group. 2. Introduction The Day the Crayons Quit is a bestselling picture book that humorously presents the complaints of a box of crayons through a series of letters. It creatively explores themes of perspective,…

  • Last Kids on Earth Series – Max Brallier

    1. Full Citation Brallier, M. (2015–present) Last Kids on Earth series. New York: Viking Books for Young Readers. 2. Introduction The Last Kids on Earth series is a popular middle-grade adventure and graphic novel collection following a group of kids surviving in a post-apocalyptic world filled with monsters. Combining humor,…

  • Harry Potter Series – J.K. Rowling

    1. Full Citation Rowling, J.K. (1997–2007) Harry Potter series. London: Bloomsbury Publishing. 2. Introduction The Harry Potter series is a seven-book fantasy saga chronicling the adventures of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The series has had unprecedented global cultural and…

  • The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Eric Carle

    1. Full Citation Carle, E. (1969) The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York: World Publishing Company. 2. Introduction The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic picture book celebrated for its simple yet captivating story of a caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly. It combines educational themes with engaging illustrations, making it a…

  • Where the Wild Things Are – Maurice Sendak

    1. Full Citation Sendak, M. (1963) Where the Wild Things Are. New York: Harper & Row. 2. Introduction Where the Wild Things Are is a groundbreaking picture book that explores childhood imagination, emotions, and the complexities of growing up. Its poetic text and evocative illustrations have made it a seminal…

  • Charlotte’s Web – E.B. White

    1. Full Citation White, E.B. (1952) Charlotte’s Web. New York: Harper & Brothers. 2. Introduction Charlotte’s Web is a classic children’s novel that tells the touching story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a clever spider named Charlotte. The novel explores themes of friendship, life, death, and…

  • The Cat in the Hat – Dr. Seuss

    1. Full Citation Seuss, D. (1957) The Cat in the Hat. New York: Random House. 2. Introduction The Cat in the Hat is a foundational early reader picture book that combines whimsical rhymes and imaginative characters to encourage reading among children. Dr. Seuss’s playful approach has made this book an…

  • Goodnight Moon – Margaret Wise Brown

    1. Full Citation Brown, M.W. (1947) Goodnight Moon. New York: Harper & Brothers. 2. Introduction Goodnight Moon is a beloved bedtime story known for its calming, rhythmic text and soothing illustrations. It has become a staple in children’s literature, offering comfort and routine for young readers. 3. Author Background and…

  • Green Eggs and Ham – Dr. Seuss

    1. Full Citation Seuss, D. (1960) Green Eggs and Ham. New York: Random House. 2. Introduction Green Eggs and Ham is a classic early reader that employs a limited vocabulary and rhythmic rhyme scheme to encourage reading fluency. Its playful narrative challenges readers to try new experiences with an entertaining…

  • Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series – Jeff Kinney

    1. Full Citation Kinney, J. (2007–present) Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. New York: Amulet Books. 2. Introduction The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series chronicles the life of middle-schooler Greg Heffley through diary entries and cartoons. Known for its humor and relatable portrayal of adolescence, the series has become…

  • Winnie-the-Pooh – A.A. Milne

    1. Full Citation Milne, A.A. (1926) Winnie-the-Pooh. London: Methuen & Co. 2. Introduction Winnie-the-Pooh is a timeless collection of stories about a lovable bear and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood. The book explores themes of friendship, imagination, and childhood innocence, and has captivated readers worldwide. 3. Author Background…

  • Matilda – Roald Dahl

    1. Full Citation Dahl, R. (1988) Matilda. London: Jonathan Cape. 2. Introduction Matilda tells the story of a highly intelligent and gifted young girl who uses her extraordinary abilities to overcome neglectful parents and a tyrannical headmistress. It is celebrated for its blend of fantasy, humour, and empowerment themes. 3.…

  • Large Reasoning Models and Corporate Resilience in Legal Compliance

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    AbstractLarge Reasoning Models (LRMs) represent a pivotal evolution in artificial intelligence (AI), advancing beyond traditional Large Language Models (LLMs) by incorporating structured reasoning capabilities. This paper examines the role of LRMs in enhancing corporate legal compliance and organisational resilience. It evaluates their application in risk management, regulatory adaptation, contract analysis,…

  • Large Reasoning Models – LRM

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    Large Reasoning Models: Independence from LLMs and Key Developers in AI Research AbstractLarge Reasoning Models (LRMs) represent an emerging paradigm in artificial intelligence (AI), prioritising structured, logic-driven cognition over statistical text prediction. While Large Language Models (LLMs) have dominated contemporary AI development, interest is growing in whether LRMs can function…

  • Reasoning Capabilities, Data Sources, and Comparison with AI Models

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    Grok AI 3.5: Reasoning Capabilities, Data Sources, and Comparison with AI Models 1. What Makes Grok AI 3.5 Unique? Grok AI 3.5, developed by xAI (Elon Musk’s AI company), represents an advanced LLM-based system enhanced with reasoning-like behaviours. While it remains fundamentally a Large Language Model, it integrates mechanisms intended…

  • Emergence of Reasoning-Enhanced Language Models

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    Grok AI 3.5 and the Emergence of Reasoning-Enhanced Language Models: A Critical Review AbstractGrok AI 3.5, developed by xAI, marks a significant evolution in artificial intelligence by integrating reasoning-inspired mechanisms within a Large Language Model (LLM) architecture. Unlike traditional LLMs which rely primarily on statistical pattern recognition, Grok AI incorporates…

  • How Grok AI Generates Answers Without Internet Data

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    Reasoning Beyond Retrieval: How Grok AI Generates Answers Without Internet Data AbstractAs AI systems become increasingly integrated into decision-making processes, their ability to generate reliable, novel answers without constant reliance on external data becomes critical. Grok AI, developed by xAI, claims to offer such a capability by simulating first-principles reasoning…

  • Media Copyright, AI Training Data, and the Challenge of Content Control in the Age of Generative AI

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    1. Introduction The rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI) models has sparked a contentious debate regarding the use of copyrighted media content as training data. Media organisations, including news publishers, music companies, and creative industries, increasingly assert their rights over intellectual property (IP) utilised by AI firms to develop…

  • Artificial Intelligence, Contemporary News, and Trustworthiness: Challenges and Considerations

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    1. Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed multiple sectors, including information dissemination, research, and communication. With the rise of large language models (LLMs), such as OpenAI’s GPT series, the potential for AI to summarise, analyse, and generate text-based content has grown exponentially. However, concerns persist regarding the currency of AI…

  • Decentralized AI

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    Decentralized AI: A Comparative Analysis of Apple, Tesla, and Microsoft’s Approaches Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) has historically relied on cloud-based computing for training and execution. However, recent trends indicate a shift towards decentralized AI, where processing occurs locally on devices or is distributed across a network of nodes. This paper…

  • Big Tech Ecosystems Compared

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    Big Tech Ecosystems Compared: Integration Strategies, Market Power, and Antitrust Exposure (Including Microsoft) 1. Introduction The world’s leading technology firms—Apple, Google (Alphabet), Amazon, Meta (Facebook), Microsoft, Samsung, and Huawei—have created digital ecosystems that dominate daily life, spanning operating systems, cloud platforms, hardware, entertainment, AI, and commerce. Each firm employs a…

  • The Microsoft Ecosystem

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    The Microsoft Ecosystem: Productivity, Platform Power, and Enterprise Dominance 1. Introduction Microsoft Corporation, founded in 1975, remains one of the most influential and enduring players in the global technology landscape. While its early success was rooted in desktop operating systems and office software, Microsoft has evolved into a cloud-first, AI-driven,…

  • Meta’s Ecosystem and Platform Strategy

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    Meta’s Ecosystem and Platform Strategy: Social Dominance, Immersive Expansion, and Regulatory Scrutiny 1. Introduction Meta Platforms Inc., formerly Facebook Inc., has evolved from a social networking service into a diversified technology conglomerate spanning social media, virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and digital advertising. Rebranded as “Meta” in 2021, the…

  • Huawei’s Ecosystem and Strategic Autonomy

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    Huawei’s Ecosystem and Strategic Autonomy: Integration without the West 1. Introduction Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. is one of the most influential yet geopolitically contentious technology firms in the world. Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Huawei has rapidly evolved from a telecommunications hardware provider into a global tech conglomerate with ambitions in…

  • Amazon’s Ecosystem and Digital Monopoly

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    Amazon’s Ecosystem and Digital Monopoly: Architecture, Expansion, and Antitrust Implications 1. Introduction Amazon, founded in 1994 as an online bookstore, has evolved into one of the world’s most powerful and diversified technology platforms. Through a combination of logistics mastery, cloud computing dominance, and vertical ecosystem control, Amazon has become a…

  • Google’s Ecosystem and Alphabet’s Platform Power

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    Google’s Ecosystem and Alphabet’s Platform Power: Integration, Dominance, and Monopoly Concerns 1. Introduction Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has built one of the most expansive and deeply integrated ecosystems in the global digital economy. Originally a search engine, Google has evolved into a multi-platform conglomerate spanning search, mobile operating…

  • Apple’s Ecosystem

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    Apple’s Ecosystem: Structure, Integration, and the Question of Monopoly 1. Introduction Apple Inc. has cultivated one of the most tightly controlled and profitable digital ecosystems in modern technology. Through a vertically integrated model that connects hardware, software, services, and distribution channels, Apple has engineered a user environment that is both…

  • Samsung’s Digital Ecosystem

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    Samsung’s Digital Ecosystem: Structure, Integration, and Strategic Design 1. Introduction The concept of a digital ecosystem has become central to the strategies of global technology companies. Ecosystems create customer lock-in, brand loyalty, and cross-device service continuity while enabling data unification and monetisation. Among the major players, Samsung Electronics presents a…

  • An Analysis of Samsung’s Diversification from Major Platform Dependencies

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    Strategic Autonomy in the Tech Ecosystem: An Analysis of Samsung’s Diversification from Major Platform Dependencies 1. Introduction In the contemporary technology landscape, platform dependency poses both operational and strategic risks for global firms. Samsung Electronics, a leading conglomerate in consumer electronics, semiconductors, and software, exemplifies a diversified approach to mitigating…

  • The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing

    The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing – Benjamin Graham 1. Full Citation Graham, B. (1949, revised 2006) The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing. Rev. edn. with commentary by Jason Zweig. New York: HarperBusiness. 2. Introduction The Intelligent Investor is a seminal work in investment…

  • Security Analysis

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    Security Analysis – Benjamin Graham & David Dodd 1. Full Citation Graham, B. and Dodd, D.L. (1934, revised 2008) Security Analysis: Principles and Techniques. 6th edn. New York: McGraw-Hill. 2. Introduction Originally published in 1934 in the aftermath of the Wall Street Crash, Security Analysis by Benjamin Graham and David…

  • Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits

    Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits – Philip A. Fisher 1. Full Citation Fisher, P.A. (1958, revised 2003) Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other Writings. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 2. Introduction Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits by Philip A. Fisher is a cornerstone of growth investing, complementing Benjamin Graham’s value-oriented philosophy.…

  • The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America

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    The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America – Warren E. Buffett & Lawrence A. Cunningham 1. Full Citation Buffett, W.E. and Cunningham, L.A. (2001, revised 2021) The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America. 5th edn. Wilmington, DE: Carolina Academic Press. 2. Introduction The Essays of Warren…

  • A Random Walk Down Wall Street

    A Random Walk Down Wall Street – Burton G. Malkiel 1. Full Citation Malkiel, B.G. (1973, revised 2023) A Random Walk Down Wall Street: The Time-Tested Strategy for Successful Investing. 13th edn. New York: W. W. Norton & Company. 2. Introduction Burton G. Malkiel’s A Random Walk Down Wall Street…

  • The Little Book of Common Sense Investing

    The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – John C. Bogle 1. Full Citation Bogle, J.C. (2007, revised 2017) The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: The Only Way to Guarantee Your Fair Share of Stock Market Returns. 10th Anniversary edn. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 2. Introduction John C. Bogle’s The…

  • One Up On Wall Street

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  • Market Wizards: Interviews with Top Traders

    Market Wizards: Interviews with Top Traders – Jack D. Schwager 1. Full Citation Schwager, J.D. (1989, revised 2012) Market Wizards: Interviews with Top Traders. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 2. Introduction Market Wizards is a unique contribution to investment literature, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the philosophies, strategies, and mindsets of some…

  • Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets

    Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets – Nassim Nicholas Taleb 1. Full Citation Taleb, N.N. (2001, revised 2005) Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and in the Markets. 2nd edn. New York: Random House. 2. Introduction In Fooled…

  • The Dhandho Investor: The Low-Risk Value Method to High Returns

    The Dhandho Investor: The Low-Risk Value Method to High Returns – Mohnish Pabrai 1. Full Citation Pabrai, M. (2007) The Dhandho Investor: The Low-Risk Value Method to High Returns. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 2. Introduction The Dhandho Investor introduces a practical, value-oriented investment approach inspired by the business methods of the…

  • Thinking, Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman

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    1. Full Citation Kahneman, D. (2011) Thinking, Fast and Slow. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux. 2. Introduction Thinking, Fast and Slow is a landmark work in psychology and behavioural economics by Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman. The book explores the dual-process model of cognition, describing two modes of thinking: System…

  • The Warren Buffett Way

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  • The Four Pillars of Investing: Lessons for Building a Winning Portfolio

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  • The Misbehavior of Markets: A Fractal View of Financial Turbulence

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    The Misbehavior of Markets: A Fractal View of Financial Turbulence – Benoit B. Mandelbrot and Richard L. Hudson 1. Full Citation Mandelbrot, B.B. and Hudson, R.L. (2004) The Misbehavior of Markets: A Fractal View of Financial Turbulence. New York: Basic Books. 2. Introduction The Misbehavior of Markets challenges the conventional…

  • Reminiscences of a Stock Operator

    Reminiscences of a Stock Operator – Edwin Lefèvre 1. Full Citation Lefèvre, E. (1923) Reminiscences of a Stock Operator. New York: John Wiley & Sons. 2. Introduction Reminiscences of a Stock Operator is a classic investment biography presented as a fictionalised autobiography of Jesse Livermore, one of the most legendary…

  • Safe Haven: Investing for Financial Storms

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