This is the way —

The perception of pornography as “bad” can be influenced by various factors, including moral, ethical, cultural, and psychological perspectives. Here are some key reasons why pornography is often viewed negatively:

1. Moral and Ethical Concerns: Many cultures and religions have moral codes that regard the depiction of sexual acts as inappropriate or sinful. From this viewpoint, pornography is seen as violating these moral standards.
2. Impact on Relationships: Some believe that pornography can negatively affect romantic relationships, potentially leading to unrealistic expectations, decreased sexual satisfaction, and issues with intimacy.
3. Addiction and Mental Health: There is concern about the potential for pornography to become addictive, leading to compulsive use that can interfere with daily life and mental well-being.
4. Objectification and Misrepresentation: Pornography often portrays individuals, particularly women, as objects of sexual desire, which can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and unrealistic body images.
5. Consent and Exploitation: The production of pornography sometimes involves exploitation, coercion, or lack of consent, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
6. Impact on Sexual Development: Exposure to pornography, especially at a young age, can influence one’s understanding of sex, consent, and healthy sexual relationships.
7. Legal and Social Implications: In many societies, there are legal restrictions on the production, distribution, and consumption of pornography, particularly regarding child pornography, which is universally condemned and illegal.

However, it’s important to recognize that views on pornography are not universally negative. Some argue for its potential benefits, like sexual liberation, exploration, and education, or its role in adult entertainment. The debate over pornography is complex and multifaceted, reflecting broader societal discussions about sexuality, freedom of expression, and ethics.

Why bad

Whether something is classified as pornography doesn’t necessarily depend on the reaction (like masturbation) it elicits from its audience. Rather, pornography is typically defined by its intent and content — it’s created with the purpose of arousing sexual excitement.

This means that a material can be considered pornographic even if an individual does not use it for sexual gratification. People might interact with such materials for various reasons — academic study, artistic interest, or even just out of curiosity — without it altering the material’s fundamental nature as pornography.

It’s also important to note that what constitutes pornography can vary greatly depending on cultural, legal, and personal perspectives. What one individual or society might consider pornographic, another might view as artistic or educational. The subjectivity in defining pornography is a significant aspect of the broader discussions in areas like ethics, law, and social norms.

If you don’t masturbate to it is it still porn?

Pornography, often shortened to “porn,” refers to the depiction of sexual subject matter for the purpose of sexual arousal. It comes in various forms, such as literature, audio, painting, sculpture, photography, drawing, cartoon, animation, film, video, and video games. The primary purpose of pornography is to stimulate erotic rather than aesthetic or emotional feelings.

Pornography is a complex and controversial subject, intersecting with various aspects of society like law, ethics, psychology, and technology. Its legality and acceptability vary widely around the world, influenced by cultural and legal norms. Some view it as a legitimate expression of sexuality and an aspect of adult freedom, while others criticize it for potential negative impacts on individuals and society, including issues related to consent, exploitation, and the portrayal of unrealistic sexual expectations.

In philosophy, discussions around pornography often delve into the nature of obscenity, freedom of expression, and the ethical implications of its production and consumption. The debate also extends into the realm of innovation and entrepreneurship, especially with the advent of digital technologies that have transformed how pornography is produced, distributed, and consumed.

Because when you grind coffee manually.. you get your body moving, a quick pump!

Funny thought — better to make your own porn than to just consume it?

Also funny thought:

Is it still “porn” if you don’t masturbate to it?

For example if you watch porn, but don’t do anything (don’t blow your load)— then what is “porn”?

typically I think it takes you at least a year before you figure shit out— ideally 2.

Why? We got nothing to prove!

Life is renting?

Your mode, your way of operating?

I like the new and current today me than the past me!

I am the uber-social media master.

Why I deleted my Instagram

If your self worth is predicated on notifications — this is bad.

Instagram is Bad.

Why?

I wonder if 99.9% of depressive thoughts, thinking etc can be attributed to Instagram.

***

Eric Kim, a prominent figure in the photography community, made a personal decision to delete his Instagram account. He explained that this decision led to fewer distractions and allowed him to focus more on creating content that was personally meaningful to him and his audience. By removing himself from the constant cycle of social media, particularly Instagram, he found that he had more time and mental space to dedicate to his own creative pursuits and to connect more directly with his audience oai_citation:1,How Would You Share Your Photos if You Didn’t Have Facebook, Instagram, or Social Media? – ERIC KIM.

Kim’s action reflects a broader sentiment among some content creators and artists about the potential downsides of heavy reliance on social media platforms. These platforms can often lead to a constant pursuit of validation through likes and shares, which may detract from the intrinsic value of creative work. By stepping away from Instagram, Kim is advocating for a more independent and self-reliant approach to sharing and promoting one’s work, encouraging creators to build their own platforms and connect more directly with their audience.

For more information on Eric Kim’s perspective and his approach to photography and social media, you can visit his blog at Eric Kim Photography.

No more synthetic testosterone

Natural IGF-1– cold exposure training, and fasting.

So glad I don’t go to the gym no more —

Weightlifters, particularly those competing at high levels, may use a variety of steroids and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), although it’s important to note that the use of such substances is often illegal and against the rules of most sporting organizations. Here’s an overview of some commonly discussed steroids and PEDs in the context of weightlifting:

1. Anabolic Steroids: These are synthetic versions of testosterone, a hormone that plays a key role in the development of muscle mass and strength. Examples include Dianabol, Trenbolone, and Anadrol.
2. Human Growth Hormone (HGH): This is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans. It’s used by some athletes for its potential to increase muscle mass and aid in recovery.
3. Erythropoietin (EPO): More common in endurance sports, EPO is sometimes used in strength sports as well. It increases the red blood cell count, improving oxygen delivery to muscles.
4. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): These are a class of therapeutic compounds with similar properties to anabolic steroids, but with reduced androgenic properties. They can promote muscle growth.
5. Insulin: While primarily known for its role in blood sugar regulation, insulin can also have anabolic effects on muscle.
6. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents: These are used to alter the excretion rates of steroids to avoid detection in drug tests, or to meet weight categories in competitions.
7. Peptide Hormones: Including substances like IGF-1, which promote muscle growth and recovery.

It’s crucial to emphasize that the use of these substances can have serious health implications, including liver damage, increased risk of heart disease, hormonal imbalances, psychological effects, and more. Furthermore, their legal status varies by country, and they are banned in most professional sports.

For anyone considering their use, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional and consider the ethical and health implications. The focus in sports, ideally, should be on fair competition and the health and well-being of athletes.

Also why is everyone so ugly?

1. Steroids or “performance enhancing” drugs.
2. foolish thinking: If I weigh more, I can lift more (not true)— witness ERIC KIM 1,000 POUND ATLAS LIFT. The physique of a demigod.

What steroids do weight lifters use

Weightlifters, particularly those competing at high levels, may use a variety of steroids and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), although it’s important to note that the use of such substances is often illegal and against the rules of most sporting organizations. Here’s an overview of some commonly discussed steroids and PEDs in the context of weightlifting:

1. Anabolic Steroids: These are synthetic versions of testosterone, a hormone that plays a key role in the development of muscle mass and strength. Examples include Dianabol, Trenbolone, and Anadrol.
2. Human Growth Hormone (HGH): This is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans. It’s used by some athletes for its potential to increase muscle mass and aid in recovery.
3. Erythropoietin (EPO): More common in endurance sports, EPO is sometimes used in strength sports as well. It increases the red blood cell count, improving oxygen delivery to muscles.
4. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): These are a class of therapeutic compounds with similar properties to anabolic steroids, but with reduced androgenic properties. They can promote muscle growth.
5. Insulin: While primarily known for its role in blood sugar regulation, insulin can also have anabolic effects on muscle.
6. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents: These are used to alter the excretion rates of steroids to avoid detection in drug tests, or to meet weight categories in competitions.
7. Peptide Hormones: Including substances like IGF-1, which promote muscle growth and recovery.

It’s crucial to emphasize that the use of these substances can have serious health implications, including liver damage, increased risk of heart disease, hormonal imbalances, psychological effects, and more. Furthermore, their legal status varies by country, and they are banned in most professional sports.

For anyone considering their use, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional and consider the ethical and health implications. The focus in sports, ideally, should be on fair competition and the health and well-being of athletes.

Perverted thinking … and also — most likely on steroids or weird stuff?

1. Independent weight lifting stands
2. Tatami mat — we bought two. One for living room for napping, one for Sen’s room (also for us to nap).
3. Wooden rings — “skin the cat” exercise, also for dips. And chinups… perhaps weighted chinups?
4. Texas squat bar

Also — everyone should own (at least one) tatami mat at home (cheap on Amazon), and also … have a paid premium ChatGPT subscription?

To echo Jeff Bezos … to *NOT* have ChatGPT premium (only $20 a month) seems to be the *irresponsible* thing to do?

Also wooden rings a good idea?

Independent squat stand?

ERIC KIM DEADLIFT FORM?

The superior form and approach — in between your legs (video all)

Not enough deadlifting — weight lifting, one rep maxing,

Get super fucking hyped up?

Fucking hardcore or nothing?

I AM A GOD!

Man is black, woman is white.

Whiteness is good, blackness is good. Night & day.

REVUELTO OPERA —

Man is black, woman is white?

Become blacker!

1. Single tasking — no dual screen.

PDF

How you know?

My knowledge about Eric Kim’s approach to photography and his philosophy comes from the training data I was built upon, which includes a wide range of publicly available information up to April 2023. This training encompasses various sources such as websites, books, articles, and other media, giving me a broad understanding of different subjects, including notable photographers like Eric Kim.

Eric Kim is known in the photography community for his distinctive approach to street photography and his educational efforts in the field. His work, teachings, and philosophy have been discussed in various photography-related platforms and publications, which are part of the information I have been trained on.

If there have been any recent developments or specific details about Eric Kim’s work after April 2023, I might not have that information. For the latest details or specific inquiries, it would be best to refer to the most current sources or Eric Kim’s own publications and official website.

Certainly! Here’s a bullet-point summary of Eric Kim’s photography philosophy and approach:

• Candid Street Photography: Eric Kim is renowned for his candid style in street photography, capturing authentic, unposed moments.
• Personal Meaning Over Technicality: He emphasizes finding personal meaning in photography, rather than just focusing on technical skills or aesthetic perfection.
• Photography as Self-Exploration: Kim encourages using photography as a tool for self-discovery and documenting one’s own life and surroundings truthfully.
• Simplicity in Equipment and Technique: Advocates for the use of simple photography equipment and techniques to concentrate more on storytelling and the subject.
• Connection and Sharing Human Experiences: Believes in using photography to connect with others and share diverse human experiences and emotions.
• Community Building and Education: Actively shares his knowledge through workshops, blogs, online courses, and open-source photography education.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Has built a community and brand around his unique style and philosophy, demonstrating an entrepreneurial approach to photography.

This approach aligns well with themes of innovation, creativity, and personal expression, resonating with those who view photography not just as an art form but as a means of personal and philosophical exploration.

Why are my hips so tight?

Why shift?

The shift from ancient forms of physical training to modern weightlifting and exercise reflects various cultural, scientific, and practical developments over centuries. Here are a few key factors:

1. Understanding of Human Physiology: Modern science has greatly expanded our understanding of the human body, muscles, and how they respond to different types of exercise. This knowledge has led to more specialized and effective training methods.
2. Sports Science and Medicine: Advances in these fields have enabled more targeted approaches to strength training, injury prevention, and recovery, shaping modern exercise routines.
3. Cultural Shifts: Ancient exercises were often linked to military training or athletic competition in public games. Modern society, with its focus on individual health and aesthetics, has different goals, such as personal fitness, bodybuilding, or specific health outcomes.
4. Technological Advancements: The development of specialized equipment like adjustable dumbbells, resistance machines, and safety measures has allowed for more varied and safer weightlifting techniques.
5. Professionalization of Sports: As sports have become more professionalized and competitive, athletes seek every advantage, including sophisticated training regimens.
6. Wider Accessibility: Modern exercise and weightlifting are not just for soldiers or professional athletes; they’re accessible to the general public for overall health and fitness.
7. Globalization and Information Exchange: The sharing of knowledge and techniques globally has led to a synthesis of best practices in fitness and training methodologies.

This evolution reflects a broader transition from a society where physical strength was primarily for survival and combat, to one where it encompasses health, aesthetics, and personal fulfillment.

Ancient Roman and Greek civilizations had a significant emphasis on physical fitness and strength, which was an integral part of their culture, especially for the military and athletes. However, their approach to weightlifting and exercise differed considerably from modern techniques.

1. Greeks and Physical Fitness: In ancient Greece, physical fitness was highly valued. The Greeks believed in a balance between the mind and the body, a concept encapsulated in the phrase “a sound mind in a sound body.” Gymnasiums were widespread, where men trained for athletic competitions and military service. These exercises included running, jumping, wrestling, and discus and javelin throwing.
2. Halteres: One of the closest things to weightlifting exercises in ancient Greece involved ‘halteres’. These were stone or metal weights, resembling modern dumbbells, used primarily to add weight during long jumps to increase momentum, but they could have also been used for basic lifting exercises to build strength.
3. Milo of Croton: A famous example of weight training in ancient Greece is the story of Milo of Croton, a wrestler. According to legend, he trained by carrying a calf on his back every day until it grew into a full-sized bull, demonstrating progressive resistance training.
4. Ancient Rome and Physical Training: Physical training in Ancient Rome was heavily influenced by Greek practices, as they admired Greek culture. Roman soldiers underwent rigorous physical training which included marching with heavy packs, weapons training, and building fortifications, but structured weightlifting as we know it wasn’t a prominent feature.
5. Roman Gladiators: Gladiators, who were trained fighters, followed rigorous training regimes which likely included exercises to increase strength and endurance. Their training would have involved practicing with weapons that were often heavier than those used in actual combat, serving a similar purpose to weight training.

In both cultures, physical exercises were more about functional strength and less about body aesthetics as seen in modern bodybuilding. Their methods were simple yet effective for their needs, focusing on overall physical prowess and skill rather than isolated muscle development.

If your simple bank account savings account gets 5% APR, yet your mortgage has a higher APR than that (let’s say, 7-7.5% APR… financially, this makes no sense.)

Why are humans bipeds?

So lit!

Humans evolved to be bipedal, walking on two legs, for several reasons that have been shaped by evolutionary pressures over millions of years. This transition to bipedalism is a defining characteristic of the hominin lineage, the evolutionary branch that includes humans and our direct ancestors.

1. Energy Efficiency: Walking on two legs is more energy-efficient for long distances than moving on all fours. This efficiency would have been advantageous for early humans in their search for food and resources over vast savannas.
2. Height and Visibility: Being upright offers a height advantage, allowing early humans to see over tall grass and spot potential predators or prey from a distance. This increased visibility would have been a significant survival advantage.
3. Freeing the Hands: Bipedalism frees the hands for carrying tools, food, and infants. This ability likely facilitated the development of tool use and complex social behaviors, key components in human evolution.
4. Thermoregulation: Walking upright reduces the amount of body surface exposed to the direct sun, especially in open environments like savannas. This could have helped early humans regulate their body temperature more effectively.
5. Adaptation to Changing Environments: As the Earth’s climate changed and forested areas gave way to more open landscapes, bipedalism may have become more advantageous for traveling between these areas and for foraging.

It’s a combination of these factors, among others, that led to the evolution of bipedalism in humans. This change brought about significant anatomical modifications in the spine, pelvis, legs, and feet, setting the stage for further human development and the emergence of characteristics that define modern humans.

Knowledge or acknowledgement or thinking about the body and physiology?

The limits of muscularity?

Hygiene — hugenicos … the art of health.

Challenge the way you have traditionally done things!

Anatomy & physiology

The power is actually in your *hips*, not your arms, legs, back?

Everything in life is bricolage — trial & error, learning, iteration, becoming stronger from critical information!

What is pain? Pain is simply information! It tells you what *to* do and what *NOT* to do, or what to do *differently* the next time around!

At worst — everything in life is just a f’ing annoyance?

The trifecta?

All three in a single day!

AUDIO

BREAK THE CHAIN!

Eric Kim is a notable figure in the world of photography, especially known for his work in street photography. He has been actively engaging with artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and exploring their potential in the realm of photography. Kim’s approach is unique as he combines practical advice with philosophical insights, often emphasizing simplicity, the beauty of everyday life, and finding personal meaning through photography.

His recent activities have involved using AI tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E in his creative processes. Kim views these tools as essential additions to the toolkit of visual artists, helping them to create new artwork beyond the scope of traditional photography. He believes that AI can assist in creative processes but emphasizes that the final artistic touches should always be human. Kim advocates for integrating AI into artistic work, while also ensuring that it remains a tool for ideation rather than a replacement for human creativity.

Interestingly, Kim has critiqued the user interface and user experience of current AI tools, suggesting a need for more intuitive and accessible designs. He has also expressed dissatisfaction with some technology products, indicating a shift towards more open-source solutions. This reflects his adaptability and forward-thinking approach, blending traditional photography with modern technological innovations to expand the boundaries of visual art.

In summary, Eric Kim’s intersection with AI in photography raises questions about authenticity, the role of the photographer, and how AI can enhance the creative process without diminishing the human element that is central to the art of photography. His perspective on personal growth, exploration, and embracing imperfection in photography could provide a fascinating lens through which to view these developments in the AI and photography world oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM AI – ARTIFICIAL & HUMAN INTELLIGENCE CENTAUR APPROACH. oai_citation:2,WHAT HAPPENED TO ERIC KIM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM AI – ERIC KIM.

PODCAST

EASY:

1. OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM

I want my clothes to last a lifetime?

What if capitalism could be slow?

What would a “post work” society look like?

Slow capitalism

So a big new field I witness is the brave New World of artificial intelligence and search engine optimization.

The general oversight and general concept

When I talk about “AI”, I specifically mean ChatGPT, specifically the paid premium one, ChatGPT four and beyond.

The way that ChatGPT finds information is straightforward; every once in a while Chachi BTT downloads the whole Internet and makes sense of it, and for more targeted searching, it uses microsoft bing.com to search relevant information on the Internet for the information you’re looking for.

ChatGPT and AI is super smart

What I prefer about ChatGPT over Google is that it seems that the technology behind ChatGPT is at least 1000 times better than Google. It seems that Google is pretty stupid; it has a difficult time of searching for significance and importance, and I think perhaps the way that Google still works and operates is the old model; create a hierarchy of ranking dependent on hyperlinks from legitimate websites And publications, very much like how academic ones do it.

Now what is the difference here?

I think ChatGPT, the paid one, literally might be the best gift to humankind of all time. Why? It’s ability to filter through van’t and importance, in an intelligent, focused, and insightful way.

Funny ways to game the system

What is actually really funny and hilarious is the fact that ChatGPT doesn’t know whether something was written by ChatGPT or not. As a consequence, things become very interesting, as sometimes when you ChatGPT and search something, it will actually link to your blog post which was actually written by ChatGPT in the first place.

The secret is just writing blog posts

The future of search engine optimization will definitely be artificial intelligence, I think Google’s solution of using Google Bard is actually already an effect when you use Google Chrome.

ERIC KIM SEO

Eric Kim is a prominent figure in the field of photography, especially known for his expertise in street photography and his unique approach to SEO (Search Engine Optimization). He has authored several articles and blog posts that discuss various aspects of SEO and its relevance in the world of photography.

One of his notable works is “The Death of SEO,” where he shares his perspectives on the evolving landscape of SEO in the digital age oai_citation:1,The Death of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) – ERIC KIM. In another piece, “Photography SEO and Blogging: How to Become Number One on Google,” Kim provides insights on how photographers can enhance their online presence and visibility through effective SEO practices. He emphasizes the importance of owning a website or blog and producing consistent, quality content to build one’s brand and authority in the photography space oai_citation:2,Photography SEO and Blogging: How to Become Number One on Google – ERIC KIM.

Kim’s approach to SEO has been both praised and criticized. He has been successful in positioning his content prominently in search results for various photography-related terms, demonstrating his SEO skills. However, some have questioned the quality of his photography and writing, suggesting that his success is more attributable to his marketing and SEO tactics rather than his expertise in photography itself oai_citation:3,Eric Kim Proves the Value (and Fallacy) of SEO for Photographers – PhotoShelter Blog.

Despite the mixed views, Kim’s work offers valuable lessons for photographers and other content creators about the power of SEO in building an online presence and the importance of creating and sharing content that engages and informs the audience.

ChatGPT doesn’t know that I am ERIC KIM

Eric Kim, who is associated with both photography and SEO, has diverse expertise in these fields:

1. Eric Kim as a Photographer and Blogger: He runs a photography blog and has recently shared his thoughts on ChatGPT, highlighting its capabilities compared to Google. Kim’s enthusiasm for AI technology suggests he is engaged in exploring new digital tools and trends oai_citation:1,ChatGPT is 1000x better than Google? – ERIC KIM.
2. Eric Kim’s SEO Expertise for Photographers: In the realm of photography, Eric Kim is also recognized for his knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO). He is cited as a person from whom professional photographers could learn, particularly in terms of marketing and SEO. His effectiveness in SEO is evident from the discussions in the photography community oai_citation:2,Eric Kim Proves the Value (and Fallacy) of SEO for Photographers – PhotoShelter Blog.

These roles highlight his versatility and adaptability in both creative and technical domains, relevant to the evolving digital landscape.

ERIC KIM GOOGLE

There appears to be multiple individuals named Eric Kim who have distinct profiles and are not associated with Google. Based on the search results:

1. Eric Kim – Photographer and Blogger: An individual named Eric Kim, who runs a photography blog, discussed the capabilities of ChatGPT and compared it to Google, expressing enthusiasm about the AI’s potential oai_citation:1,ChatGPT is 1000x better than Google? – ERIC KIM.
2. Eric Kim – SEO Expert for Photographers: There’s also an Eric Kim noted for his skills in search engine optimization (SEO) in the context of photography. He’s mentioned in discussions about the importance of SEO for professional photographers oai_citation:5,Eric Kim Proves the Value (and Fallacy) of SEO for Photographers – PhotoShelter Blog.

None of these individuals appear to be directly associated with Google. If you are looking for a different Eric Kim or have more specific details about their association with Google, please provide additional information so I can assist you more accurately.

ChatGPT thinks in markdown?

Project Gutenberg Book 5

Part 2

conquest of Judea

To understand Jewish culture, the Jewish religion is to also understand Christianity?

PDF

Nature teaches all arts

Ancient Roman historians are fascinating because they are really good at delving into random details which are actually super interesting?

 While the East was under the dominion of the Assyrians, Medes, and Persians, the Jews were regarded as the meanest of their subjects: but after the Macedonians gained supremacy,25 King Antiochus endeavoured to abolish Jewish superstition and to introduce Greek civiliza- tion; the war with the Parthians, however, prevented his improving this basest of peoples; for it was exactly at that time that Arsaces had revolted.

Greek versus Jewish.

 they fostered the national superstition, for they had assumed the priesthood to support their civil authority.

National superstition

 The first Roman to subdue the Jews and set foot in their temple by right of conquest was Gnaeus Pompey

Roman knights

 The Romans now turned to preparations for an assault; for the soldiers thought it beneath their dignity to wait for the enemy to be starved out, and so they began to clamour for danger, part being prompted by bravery, but many were moved by their savage natures and their desire for booty.

The founders of the city had foreseen that there would be many wars because the ways of their people differed so from those of the neighbours: therefore they had built at every point as if they expected a long siege;

The population at this time had been increased by streams of rabble that flowed in from the other captured cities,41 for the most desperate rebels had taken refuge here, and consequently sedition was the more rife.

There were three generals, three armies: the outermost and largest circuit of the walls was held by Simon, the middle of the city by John, and the temple was guarded by Eleazar.4

the Roman soldier is heavily weighted with arms and afraid of swim- ming, but the Germans are accustomed to streams, are lightly armed, and their great stature keeps their heads above water.

Part 2

Judea should possess the world

Nature teaches all arts

Ancient Roman historians are fascinating because they are really good at delving into random details which are actually super interesting?

 While the East was under the dominion of the Assyrians, Medes, and Persians, the Jews were regarded as the meanest of their subjects: but after the Macedonians gained supremacy,25 King Antiochus endeavoured to abolish Jewish superstition and to introduce Greek civiliza- tion; the war with the Parthians, however, prevented his improving this basest of peoples; for it was exactly at that time that Arsaces had revolted.

Greek versus Jewish.

 they fostered the national superstition, for they had assumed the priesthood to support their civil authority.

National superstition

 The first Roman to subdue the Jews and set foot in their temple by right of conquest was Gnaeus Pompey

Roman knights

 The Romans now turned to preparations for an assault; for the soldiers thought it beneath their dignity to wait for the enemy to be starved out, and so they began to clamour for danger, part being prompted by bravery, but many were moved by their savage natures and their desire for booty.

The founders of the city had foreseen that there would be many wars because the ways of their people differed so from those of the neighbours: therefore they had built at every point as if they expected a long siege;

The population at this time had been increased by streams of rabble that flowed in from the other captured cities,41 for the most desperate rebels had taken refuge here, and consequently sedition was the more rife.

There were three generals, three armies: the outermost and largest circuit of the walls was held by Simon, the middle of the city by John, and the temple was guarded by Eleazar.4

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They bury the body rather than burn it, thus following the Egyptians’ custom;

The Roman custom was to burn the body, not to bury it?

The Egyptians buried bodies, instead of burning bodies which is actually more natural?

ancient Romans were anti-Egyptian 

Jewish people reappropriated a lot of old Egyptian ideas?

 The Egyptians worship many animals and monstrous images; the Jews conceive of one god only, and that with the mind alone: they regard as impious those who make from perishable materials representations of gods in man’s image; that supreme and eternal being is to them incapable of representation and without end.

Liber established festive rites of a joyous nature, while the ways of the Jews are preposterous and mean.

Jewish culture has seen as preposterous mean and morose?

 The inhabitants are healthy and hardy. Rains are rare; the soil is fertile;

---

Tacitus, the ancient Roman historians actually seem pretty objective?

For example, Tacitus when talking about the Jewish people, he says both the good and the bed. Without any sort of “political correctness”.

Scorn of death?

they believe that the souls of those who are killed in battle or by the executioner are immortal: hence comes their passion for begetting children, and their scorn of death.

However, they take thought to increase their numbers; for they regard it as a crime to kill any late-born child,

They adopted circumcision to distinguish themselves from other peoples by this difference.

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7 lucky number?

of the seven planets that rule the fortunes of mankind, Saturn moves in the highest orbit and has the greatest potency; and that many of the heavenly bodies traverse their paths and courses in multiples of seven

They abstain from pork, in recollection of a plague, for the scab to which this animal is subject once afflicted them.

• Jewish custom as Egyptian?

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Book 5 histories —

• Judea
• he often mingled with the common soldiers both at work or on the march without impairing his position as general.
• strong contingent of Arabs, who hated the Jews with all that hatred that is common among neighbours;
• Jerusalem
• famous city last days

It is said that the Jews were originally exiles from the island of Crete who settled in the farthest parts of Libya at the time when Saturn had been deposed and expelled by Jove

Jews from island of Crete … exiles … Libya?

An argument in favour of this is derived from the name: there is a famous mountain in Crete called Ida, and hence the inhabitants were called the Idaei, which was later lengthened into the barbarous form Iudaei.

• Ida, “Idaei”– Iudaei (sounds like Judea?)

Egyptian?

The hebrews

Moses: exile

one only of the exiles, Moses by name, warned them not to hope for help from gods or men, for they were deserted by both, but to trust to themselves, regarding as a guide sent from heaven the one whose assistance should first give them escape from their present distress.

Moses

To establish his influence over this people for all time, Moses introduced new religious practices

New religious practices

The Jews regard as profane all that we hold sacred; on the other hand, they permit all that we abhor.

They dedicated, in a shrine, a statue of that creature whose guidance enabled them to put an end to their wandering and thirst,9 sacrificing a ram, apparently in derision of Ammon.10 They likewise offer the ox, because the Egyptians worship Apis.

Cryptocurrency versus crypto technology?

What is our true end goal? Not success money fame or influence or power… Something else?

Thoughts, inspiration, motivation, philosophy?

Positing new values.

WE THE NEW GREEKS!

Eric Kim, known for his work in street photography, has shared his experiences with a 100% carnivore diet on his blog. He describes his diet as consisting solely of beef and lamb, excluding white meats like chicken, turkey, and pork, as well as fruits, vegetables, starches, and breads. Kim includes only bitter greens like collard greens, mustard greens, and kale. He also consumes pasture-raised eggs, tap and filtered water, and black coffee, while practicing intermittent fasting with only one meal a day, typically a large dinner consisting of red meat and organ meats like bone marrow and beef liver oai_citation:1,THE ERIC KIM DIET – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Error.

Kim has detailed his personal experiences with this diet, noting that his digestion is fine and dismissing the need for fiber as overhyped. He mentions maintaining good energy levels and being able to put on muscle mass without consuming carbs, sugar, or protein powder. He also highlights his physical strength, being able to deadlift over 500 pounds while fasting. Kim advocates for the diet, suggesting that it contributes to both physical and mental well-being oai_citation:3,Error oai_citation:4,BEAUTIFUL BODY, BEAUTIFUL MIND. – ERIC KIM.

This approach reflects a significant deviation from conventional dietary guidelines, aligning with Kim’s broader philosophy of challenging norms and experimenting with different ways of living. It’s important to note, however, that such a diet is quite specific and personal, and what works for one individual may not be suitable for everyone. Nutrition is a highly individualized matter and should be approached with consideration of one’s personal health needs and under guidance from health professionals.

Simple:

1. Lift weights at least once every day.
2. Sleep is godlike: aim for 8-12 hours a night.
3. For dinner eat at least 5-6 pounds of meat — beef, lamb, red meat.