June 2021

Note: This was originally sent out on 30th June 2021. To receive these suggestions directly, subscribe to my monthly newsletter.

A Book: A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy
For anyone that follows me on social media you’ll know I’m a big supporter of Stoicism. It’s a great philosophy that can really help keep you grounded in tough times. If you want a modern Guide to practicing Stoic philosophy then Bill Irvine’s books is a great place to start.
Favourite quote: “Throughout the millennia and across cultures, those who have thought carefully about desire have drawn the conclusion that spending our days working to get whatever it is we find ourselves wanting is unlikely to bring us either happiness or tranquillity.”

An Article: The importance of stupidity in scientific research
Scientists are not smart. In fact, some of the scientists I know might (on the surface) appear to be some of stupidest people I know.  This article dives into why sometimes science (and scientists) need to be stupid.  And more importantly, why there are different types of stupidity – and they are not all equal.
Personal impact:  I’m approach the end of my PhD and between that, the pandemic and general life admin I sometimes feel like I’m getting stupider by the day. But this article gave me a new outlook and reminded me why I love science so much.

A Journal Publication: Parachute use to prevent death and major trauma when jumping from aircraft: randomized controlled trial
Ever wonder if jumping out of a plane without a parachute would be dangerous? Well to check if that is the case some scientists decided to give it a go (don’t worry no one was injured during the study).
Most interesting fact: Interestingly, using a parachute didn’t significantly reduce death or risk of injury – although they weren’t able to convince anyone to jump a plane while it was in the air, so the results might be a bit biased.