In "Non-Fiction/Liberal Arts," I have compiled book reviews on non-fiction and liberal arts topics. These range from works covering incidents and accidents to introducing knowledge about history and philosophy. I am interested in a variety of knowledge, so the themes I cover are diverse. By the way, articles related to science and mathematics are compiled in "Science/Mathematics."
-
The Essence of Shogi as Captured by Habu Yoshiharu
Why is it that in baseball, amateurs' comments like "Why aren't you swinging the bat now?", but why is Shogi perceived "boring to watch if you can't play"? Starting from this question, '羽生善治と現代(Habu Yoshiharu and present day)' is a book that delves into the world of watching shogi matches and the greatness of Habu Yoshiharu, packed with fascinating stories that will make watching shogi matches even more enjoyable. -
Rutger Bregman’s Vision for a Better Society: “Utopia for Realists”
In modern times, we live in a safer, cleaner, and more prosperous society than any other era in the past. However, even in such an age, we can't feel truly "happy". Based on "Utopia for Realists", this article explores why we can't feel happy and why society has become that way. Furthermore it also touches upon solutions to social issues in order to envision a better life. -
How the Astros Used Big Data to Win the World Series: “Astroball” (Ben Reiter)
The Astros, once called "the worst baseball team in tha last half century," won the championship through the analysis of big data. The feat was accomplished by baseball laypeople. Learn about the revolution of incorporating "human intuition" into "big data" based on "Astroball". -
The Sand Crisis: How Concrete is Destroying Our Everyday Life: “The World in a Grain” (Vince Beiser)
Can you believe that "sand is running out?" You might think that there's plenty of sand everywhere, but the sand that can be used for industrial purposes is limited. As a result, sand from beaches around the world is being illegally mined. Learn about an environmental issue that's even more important than oil or plastic trash from "The World in a Grain". -
Aum Shinrikyo: A Documentary That Questions Society: “A” (Mori Tatsuya)
The documentary film "A" by Mori Tatsuya, who infiltrated into Aum Shinrikyo, made an impact. However, it was not work about the religious group but about society. It addresses the sadistic nature of society that stops thinking and the reality that cannot be captured by objective facts. -
Japanese Society: A Unique and Effective System: “Les lecons du Japon” (Jean-Marie Bouissou)
Living in Japan, it's common to feel dissatisfaction with Japanese society and politics. However, the French author of "Les lecons du Japon," who has been living in Japan for over 20 years, argues that Japan is doing well compared to France. The book discusses Japan's uniqueness in that only "society," not religion or individuals, can determine what is good or bad.
