The Bed of Procrustes: Philosophical and Practical Aphorisms – Nassim Nicholas Taleb
“The Bed of Procrustes: Philosophical and Practical Aphorisms” is a book of aphorisms, which are short, pithy statements that convey a philosophical or moral idea. In the book, Taleb presents a series of aphorisms that touch on a variety of topics, including probability, decision-making, ethics, and human nature
Never ask anyone for their opinion, forecast, or recommendation
Taleb argues that people’s actions reveal more about their beliefs and values than their words do. Instead of asking for someone’s opinion, look at their portfolio to see what they’re actually doing with their money. This applies not only to financial investments but also to other areas of life where people make choices based on their beliefs.
You can tell how uninteresting a person is by asking him whom he finds interesting
Taleb suggests that people’s interests can reveal a lot about their personality and worldview. If someone only finds mainstream celebrities or popular TV shows interesting, they may not be very curious or open-minded.
The only definition of success that doesn’t require luck is the one based on your own definition of success
Taleb suggests that success is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. Instead of trying to measure success according to society’s standards or external metrics, we should define success on our own terms and work towards achieving our personal goals.
The most intolerant wins: The future belongs to the more determined, not the most intelligent
Taleb suggests that determination and persistence are often more important than intelligence or talent when it comes to achieving success. Those who are willing to push forward in the face of opposition or failure are more likely to ultimately achieve their goals than those who give up easily.
If you want people to read a book, tell them it is overrated
Taleb suggests that people are more likely to read a book if they hear negative things about it than if they hear only positive reviews. This may be because negative reviews create curiosity and intrigue, while positive reviews can create complacency.
It is easier to agree that a situation is extraordinary than to agree on what is ordinary
Taleb suggests that people have a bias towards seeing unusual events as significant, even when they may be relatively insignificant in the grand scheme of things. This can lead to misunderstandings and disagreements when people have different ideas about what is “normal.”
The opposite of manliness isn’t cowardice; it’s technology
Taleb argues that technology can be used as a substitute for bravery or skill, which can lead to a decline in traditional forms of masculinity. Instead of relying on technology to do everything for us, we should cultivate the skills and courage necessary to face challenges directly.
The future will be much like the past, but with more technology
Taleb argues that despite advances in technology, human nature and the course of history are largely predictable. We can use past events to inform our decisions and expectations for the future, but we should also be wary of over-reliance on technology to solve problems.
The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary
Taleb argues that people can become addicted not only to drugs but also to other things that provide short-term pleasure or security. In the case of a monthly salary, people may become trapped in a job they dislike because they are afraid to give up the security of a steady paycheck.
The difference between technology and slavery is that slaves are fully aware that they are not free
Taleb suggests that people may become enslaved to technology without realizing it. We may think that technology is making our lives easier, but in reality, we may be sacrificing our freedom and autonomy in exchange for convenience.
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