Forensic Psych Student 's Updates en-US Sun, 15 Sep 2024 08:03:00 -0700 60 Forensic Psych Student 's Updates 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Review6848413597 Sun, 15 Sep 2024 08:03:00 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'In Two Minds: Stories of murder, justice and recovery from a forensic psychiatrist']]> /review/show/6848413597 In Two Minds by Sohom Das Forensic Psych Student gave 3 stars to In Two Minds: Stories of murder, justice and recovery from a forensic psychiatrist (Hardcover) by Sohom Das
bookshelves: autobiographies-memoirs
In Two Minds by Dr. Sohom Das offers a compelling look into the complex and often misunderstood field of forensic psychiatry. As a memoir, it blends personal stories with professional insight. It explores the ethical dilemmas and challenges that arise when dealing with mentally disordered offenders and shows the thin line between vulnerability and culpability.

A key strength of the book is how it humanises patients. Das conveys empathy effectively, particularly in his discussion of individuals who hesitate to accept treatment for conditions they struggle to understand. This compassionate approach helps to illustrate the complexities of mental illness, especially within the criminal justice system. Further, he stresses how many patients struggle unsupported, with poignant reflections like, “Patients who were quietly psychotic could often fester inside themselves, drowning in their own insanity, under the radar of the prison mental health team.”

However, while Das offers valuable insights into the systemic failures and stigma surrounding mental health, the book sometimes feels limited in its exploration of these deeper societal issues. Reflections often raise important questions about the way the public views offenders, though the analysis doesn’t always go far enough in unpicking these perceptions or proposing systemic changes.

Overall, In Two Minds provides an empathetic and thoughtful introduction to forensic psychiatry. As a memoir, it effectively humanises those within the system, though it occasionally leaves broader systemic critiques underdeveloped. Thus, it offers a thought-provoking but not fully comprehensive read for readers interested in the intersection of mental health and justice. ]]> Review6764989051 Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:26:38 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'Looking for Alaska']]> /review/show/6764989051 Looking for Alaska by John Green Forensic Psych Student gave 5 stars to Looking for Alaska (Paperback) by John Green
Looking for Alaska by John Green is a poignant exploration of adolescence, loss, and the labyrinth of life. It transcends the typical boundaries of young adult fiction by weaving in profound philosophical insights that resonate with readers of all ages.

One of the most memorable lines in the book is: “You spend your whole life stuck in the labyrinth, thinking about how you’ll escape it one day… but you never do it. You just use the future to escape the present.” This quote encapsulates the novel’s essence — the characters, especially Miles and Alaska, are stuck in their own labyrinths, trying to understand life, death, and the complex emotions that come with them.

The story is not just about Miles’ quest for the “Great Perhaps,” but also about how each character navigates the challenges of growing up. Green crafts characters that are compelling and interconnected, with relationships that feel genuine. The subtle yet thoughtful development of these connections is a testament to the author’s skill in creating a story arc that feels authentic and complete.

The novel’s strength lies in its ability to balance philosophical depth with a narrative that remains engaging and accessible. It asks big questions about life, death, and meaning while grounding them authentically in youth’s visceral and often messy experiences.

Ultimately, Looking for Alaska is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that stays with you long after the final page. Perhaps this is what I should take away from this book: Seek my own Great Perhaps — insight, complexity, and reflection — while remaining humble and realising I will never know everything. In short, I should seek good questions, not good answers. ]]> UserChallenge55106085 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:36:54 -0700 <![CDATA[ Forensic Psych Student has created a challenge to read 14 books in 2024. ]]> /user/show/49368324-forensic-psych-student 11634
Forensic Psych Student has read 6 books toward their goal of 14 books.
 
6 of 14 (43%)
Create your own 2024 Reading Challenge » ]]> Review6721188911 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:42:40 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things']]> /review/show/6721188911 Misbelief by Dan Ariely Forensic Psych Student gave 3 stars to Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things (Kindle Edition) by Dan Ariely
bookshelves: psychology
Misbelief by Dan Ariely explores the phenomenon of misbelief and its societal impact through anecdotes, studies, and theoretical insights. Ariely humanises misbelief, advocating for understanding over demonisation to address polarisation. By framing misbelief as a human experience, he encourages reflection on judgment and bias.

Ariely examines how misinformation exploits cognitive vulnerabilities, emphasising the essential role of trust in society and the effects of its erosion. He uses modern technology and Superman as analogies to illustrate how advancements can exacerbate cognitive vulnerabilities but also ameliorate them. Additionally, he argues that socioeconomic stressors can increase vulnerability to misbelief. However, his implicit assumption of inherent human irrationality and his referencing style, which resembles an insightful memoir rather than a rigorous academic work, slightly weaken his arguments.

Despite these issues, Ariely’s insights on empathy and cognitive biases are valuable. Concepts like cognitive dissonance, social proof, and the illusionary truth effect are well-explained, providing tools for navigating misinformation. Personal anecdotes make the material accessible and underscore the human cost of misbelief. Overall, Misbelief is a significant contribution to understanding belief and misinformation, promoting trust, intellectual humility, and empathetic engagement with differing views. ]]> Review6662135561 Thu, 11 Jul 2024 17:30:11 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'Slaughterhouse-Five']]> /review/show/6662135561 Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Forensic Psych Student gave 5 stars to Slaughterhouse-Five (Paperback) by Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
bookshelves: thought-provoking-fiction
Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five intertwines the horrors of World War II with science fiction elements to explore the absurdity of war. The narrative follows Billy Pilgrim, a soldier who becomes “unstuck in time” and experiences events out of chronological order, including his abduction by aliens. The novel delves into themes of fate, free will, and the irrationality of human conflict, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

The novel’s exploration of the banality of death is striking. Vonnegut’s use of “and so on” and “so it goes” to punctuate deaths reflects a society numbed to mortality, especially during war. The glacier metaphor, depicting war as a slow-moving yet unyielding force that reshapes everything in its path, powerfully conveys the inescapable and impersonal nature of human conflict. This metaphor underscores war’s cold, impersonal nature and its relentless impact on humanity.

Billy Pilgrim’s experiences highlight various facets of war’s irrationality. His detachment from his comrades, the emotional disconnection depicted through characters like Professor Rumfoord, and the portrayal of soldiers as dehumanised machines all serve to illustrate the absurdity and brutality of conflict. Vonnegut also critiques the glamorisation of war and propaganda, showing how these elements manipulate perceptions and justify violence. However, the book somewhat skirts around the potential necessity of war, driven by the inherent bellicosity of nations, leaving readers to ponder the complex justifications behind such conflicts.

Despite the dark themes, Vonnegut offers a glimmer of hope with the springtime motif, symbolising renewal and the possibility of redemption. However, the book ends with a nonsensical phrase - “poo-tee-weet” - suggesting that there is ultimately nothing sensible to say about war. This juxtaposition of hope and absurdity encapsulates Vonnegut’s ultimate message: while humanity may have the potential for renewal, the senselessness of war remains an incomprehensible and enduring part of the human experience. ]]> Review6613243504 Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:22:56 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'The God Desire']]> /review/show/6613243504 The God Desire by David Baddiel Forensic Psych Student gave 4 stars to The God Desire (Hardcover) by David Baddiel
bookshelves: atheism
David Baddiel’s “The God Desire: On Being a Reluctant Atheist” explores atheism, belief, and cultural identity through his lived experience. As an atheist with an intimate connection to his Jewish heritage, Baddiel elucidates the emotional and historical contexts that shape his perspective.

Baddiel’s respect for religious traditions underscores the importance of narrative in human life. He sees the fear of death as being ameliorated by narrative, while his emphasis on living in the moment is compelling. His reflections on cultural trauma and the emotional weight of religious rituals offer profound insights into identity. His understanding of the human need for narrative is perceptive, offering a nuanced view of religion often absent from more binary analyses.

However, his portrayal of some atheists as dismissive or derogatory might lead to hostile generalisations, especially among readers unfamiliar with the spectrum of atheism (he primarily refers to New Atheists). Moreover, his view that scientists overemphasise natural wonder to compensate for their atheism seems speculative. Nonetheless, Baddiel makes a strong case against the necessity of providing an alternative to the premise that “there is no God,” highlighting the human compulsion for storytelling.

Baddiel’s discussion of Jesus as a relatable hero is intriguing but should be contextualised within the broader and more complex history of Christianity’s rise, as scholars like Bart Ehrman suggest. The delineation between Judaism’s focus on actions and Christianity’s emphasis on belief is crucial and reflects historical shifts in religious practice.

His arguments on human exceptionalism and vegetarianism draw attention to the lingering influence of religious beliefs on contemporary attitudes toward animals. While Baddiel’s dismissal of anthropomorphism is somewhat overstated, it raises important questions about our relationship with animals.

In summary, “The God Desire” is a thought-provoking read that navigates complex themes with a blend of personal reflection and cultural analysis. Baddiel’s nuanced approach and willingness to engage with difficult questions make this book a valuable contribution to discussions on atheism and belief. ]]> Review6592036825 Sun, 16 Jun 2024 17:38:47 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, A Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor']]> /review/show/6592036825 Ghosts of Honolulu by Mark Harmon Forensic Psych Student gave 4 stars to Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, A Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor (Hardcover) by Mark Harmon
bookshelves: history
Book Review: “Ghosts of Honolulu”

“Ghosts of Honolulu” by Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll Jr. offers a compelling exploration of WWII espionage and military operations, bringing to life the stories of key figures involved. The authors vividly depict the pressures faced by Japanese spies, American intelligence officers, and local civilians, shedding light on the complexities of their experiences. The book captures the suffering of the Japanese populace, who bore the brunt of the imperial navy’s ambitions.

The narrative, while focused, raises broader questions about interrogation practices, the moral impact of war, and the desensitisation to violence. It underscores how war can normalise antisocial behaviour and reduce accountability, reflecting on latent aggression that emerges during such times.

However, the authors occasionally take creative liberties, adding drama but potentially affecting historical accuracy. This artistic license enhances readability but should be noted by readers seeking a strictly factual account.

Overall, “Ghosts of Honolulu” provides a nuanced and thought-provoking look at war, espionage, and human resilience. It’s a valuable read for history enthusiasts and those interested in the moral and psychological dimensions of conflict. ]]> Review5624079669 Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:18:08 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'The Middle Ages: Facts and Fictions']]> /review/show/5624079669 The Middle Ages by Winston E. Black Forensic Psych Student gave 4 stars to The Middle Ages: Facts and Fictions (Kindle Edition) by Winston E. Black
bookshelves: medieval-history
Black has written a concise exploration of 11 misconceptions about the Middle Ages. Each chapter is dedicated to a myth, and follows a clear structure of outlining the erroneous claim, how it came about and then providing a correction.

Each chapter contains original sources, relating to how the myth came about and why it is factually wrong. These are generally readable and good translations. Through reading these, and Black’s commentary, the reader is able to appreciate the social and historical context in which the myths developed and the ideologies that produced them.

Of note, is how writers during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries wished to distance themselves from the period through stereotyping and caricaturing it. In addition, these writers also felt an affinity to the Roman Empire and saw the Middle Ages as a sociocultural decline. However, It was also interesting reading how early Christians viewed the “Barbarians” as a threat to their Roman culture.

Black is a scholar and professor of medieval history, and for the most part the narrative is clear and objective. However, at times his frustration at some of the ludicrous claims becomes evident. I think this reasonable, given how embedded these myths are in popular understanding of the medieval period. Further, Black explains why they are harmful and require correction.

It should be noted that the eleven myths discussed have been abandoned within academia, yet they persist among non-specialist writers, children’s education and in film and TV. They are attractive, simplistic and are congruent with popular perceptions. Further, it could be argued that the tendency to define ourselves by making salient specific differences, is what drives the idea of the middle ages as a time of backwardness, superstition and violence.

Overall, this is a very good book in terms of its writing and objective. It delineates fact from fiction, and provides a plethora of sources. It’s written with a North American undergraduate audience in mind and is sufficiently detailed. However, those who hold such myths as fact may not have any interest in reading it and the myths outlined will probably continue to percolate. ]]> Review5626217500 Sat, 17 Jun 2023 17:06:57 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'Elitism: A Progressive Defence']]> /review/show/5626217500 Elitism by Eliane Glaser Forensic Psych Student gave 4 stars to Elitism: A Progressive Defence (Provocations Book 23) by Eliane Glaser
bookshelves: social-science
]]> Review5624079669 Fri, 16 Jun 2023 16:56:46 -0700 <![CDATA[Forensic Psych Student added 'The Middle Ages: Facts and Fictions']]> /review/show/5624079669 The Middle Ages by Winston E. Black Forensic Psych Student gave 4 stars to The Middle Ages: Facts and Fictions (Kindle Edition) by Winston E. Black
bookshelves: medieval-history
Black has written a concise exploration of 11 misconceptions about the Middle Ages. Each chapter is dedicated to a myth, and follows a clear structure of outlining the erroneous claim, how it came about and then providing a correction.

Each chapter contains original sources, relating to how the myth came about and why it is factually wrong. These are generally readable and good translations. Through reading these, and Black’s commentary, the reader is able to appreciate the social and historical context in which the myths developed and the ideologies that produced them.

Of note, is how writers during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries wished to distance themselves from the period through stereotyping and caricaturing it. In addition, these writers also felt an affinity to the Roman Empire and saw the Middle Ages as a sociocultural decline. However, It was also interesting reading how early Christians viewed the “Barbarians” as a threat to their Roman culture.

Black is a scholar and professor of medieval history, and for the most part the narrative is clear and objective. However, at times his frustration at some of the ludicrous claims becomes evident. I think this reasonable, given how embedded these myths are in popular understanding of the medieval period. Further, Black explains why they are harmful and require correction.

It should be noted that the eleven myths discussed have been abandoned within academia, yet they persist among non-specialist writers, children’s education and in film and TV. They are attractive, simplistic and are congruent with popular perceptions. Further, it could be argued that the tendency to define ourselves by making salient specific differences, is what drives the idea of the middle ages as a time of backwardness, superstition and violence.

Overall, this is a very good book in terms of its writing and objective. It delineates fact from fiction, and provides a plethora of sources. It’s written with a North American undergraduate audience in mind and is sufficiently detailed. However, those who hold such myths as fact may not have any interest in reading it and the myths outlined will probably continue to percolate. ]]>