#--philosophically. PUNISHMENT

[celestialbruise]

lawlight foreplay is just gaslighting and thinly-veiled threats of violence and murder

[arlathen]

so we know that veilguard really pulls back from "minrathous is the slave capital of the world" and i just realized that only venatori are depicted as owning slaves. it's the reason they're the shadow dragons' main enemies. it's the reason the only slave we see in game (necropolis, during emmrich's recruitment quest) was brought there by the venatori. mercar literally can say to the first warden "murder? you mean the venatori cultists who enslaved those people" -- as though no one but venatori own slaves in tevinter.

because if they acknowledged that slavery is completely legal in tevinter and that the shadow dragons are supposed to be revolutionaries trying to overturn the social order, and an abolitionist archon is an INSANELY radical thing for tevinter. well. idk. that's bad for some reason? it's so weird because "slavery bad" is such a clear and easy thing to condemn and you know they realized this because they made it the main bad thing that the bad guys do. but making it an evil cult activity instead of a systemic injustice is such a choice

[werewolves-are-real]

Time Travel Temeraire snippet

At first, Laurence assumes he's dead.

It's a natural conclusion. He remembers dying, after all.

He and Tenzing were at a function hosted by Wellesley. They were mostly there to support the dragons. Temeraire had long abandoned them to quarrel with Perscitia in the courtyard, with half a dozen ferals watching like it were a jousting match. Wellesley had laid out his grounds to allow room for dragons and men to mingle, but a good portion of the guests retreated inside to avoid the raised voices of the dragons.

Laurence wonders how Temeraire felt about that, later. About not seeing.

He was stabbed. He barely remembers it – just a quick pulse of pain in his chest, looking down. Red blooming over his coat.

Then he was on the floor. People screamed. Tenzing appeared, grappling with a tall and finely-dressed man; he used a dinner-knife to punch a hole in the stranger's throat, in a fantastic spray of blood, and dropped the body at once to kneel by Laurence's side.

He remembers Wellesley barking orders – bandages, water, a hot knife. Have to cauterize it, he'd shouted. Keep pressure -

But Tenzing never spoke. Just pressed down on Laurence's chest, over the wound, without particular panic. Laurence still remembers the grim resignation on his face; Tenzing knew what was coming. Laurence was glad to have him there when he died.

Then Laurence woke up.

The world sways in a familiar way, a rhythmic motion that Laurence registers on a soul-deep level. He's on a ship. But why? Where is Tenzing, Temeraire? Why would they put him on a ship?

“I think the fever's breaking,” says a voice. A naval doctor, disheveled and salt-stained, with long scars down his bared arms. “Oh, and awake too!”

“Well thank Christ,” says another man. One Laurence recognizes.

It's Captain Gerry Stuart – but he looks different, younger than the last time Laurence saw him, with smooth skin and dark curly hair.

Gerry died two years ago.

“Well, Lieutenant! You gave us a scare – how are you feeling?” Gerry asks.

“It's Admiral,” Laurence corrects rather than all the other things he does not dare ask. He hates the title foisted upon him; but it's at least more comprehensible than Lieutenant, and he clings to that rather than demand where did you come from.

Stuart throws back his head to cackle, though the concern doesn't leave his face. “Still perhaps a bit feverish, I think!”

“That might be the laudanum,” says the doctor, also amused. “Why don't you sleep a bit more, Lieutenant?”

“But where is Temeraire? Or Tenzing?”

“I can only assume you had some very vivid dreams,” Stuart chuckles. “You were babbling and babbling for Temeraire – isn't that a ship?”

“Perhaps the flagship of his fleet,” suggests the doctor, and Stuart laughs again. “Get some rest, Mr. Laurence. Holler if you need me.”

They both exit the sick-berth. Laurence stares blankly at the door.

What?

Laurence pats his chest. No wound. He looks down, startled by the pale thinness of his fingers, his youth-soft skin.

Well; not soft. Callouses cover his hands. But even these patterns are different – hard skin in places where he would hold a sword, or pulls ropes. His hands should be more wrinkled, yes; but these callouses faded years ago.

“Where am I?” he asks when the doctor returns. “And what is the year?”

“The year? 1793. You don't remember?”

1793. Laurence was 19 in 1793. A lieutenant for two years, on the Shorewise.

The doctor narrows his eyes. “What's my name, lad?”

Laurence swallows. His stomach churns; for the life of him he can't remember.

The doctor rushes off to retrieve the captain.

_____________________________

Laurence is diagnosed with brain fever, and partial amnesia. Gerry is horribly guilty about laughing, earlier; Laurence could not care less. He is given strict orders to stay on bed-rest for another week, in hope his strength will recover – and his mind.

Laurence doesn't think he'll have any issues working – he's forgotten many of the people around him, true, but he may never forget the way to run a ship. He's far more concerned with learning what happened.

From all appearances, it is indeed 1793. France is undergoing riots, and declared war against Britain in February. Temeraire has not hatched. Napoleon is probably a corporal or general himself, at this point. If he exists at all. God knows, perhaps Laurence is only mad.

But he doesn't feel mad. His memories are too vivid to be mere fever-dreams. A man cannot dream up twenty years of life!

But neither can a man go back to his youth, and live it all again.

I have a dragon, he thinks of saying. There is no war, because I captured Napoleon – an unknown man who makes himself emperor.

Mad. It sounds mad even to Laurence himself. But to imagine that Temeraire was a fever-ridden dream... Tenzing and Granby and China, all of it...

Laurence doesn't share his turmoil with anyone – not even with Gerry, who checks on him fretfully. After a week the doctor declares him well enough, physically. He's paired always with another lieutenant for the first few days on duty, and his shipmates watch him carefully for signs of permanent debilitation; but aside from a moment or two of hesitance, Laurence competently resumes his duties. The oversight lessens.

Laurence thinks about writing letters.

He thinks about writing to Tharkay's late father, who ought to still be alive, inquiring after his son. He thinks of writing to Prince Mianning, asking about the health of Lung Tien Qian. He thinks of writing to young Midshipman Granby, his unwed brother, his dead father...

Not all of them would reply. But he could ask questions. Could verify the truth of things. Unless this, instead, is the delusion.

Is he in 1793, imagining the future? Is he in the future, imagining the past? Or maybe he is already dead, and this is the reality of hell. He came here burning with fever, and now he burns with fear. Surely that is it's own form of torture.

Laurence is ironically given the task of tutoring the midshipman and lieutenant-hopefuls more than any other duty as the weeks pass; his crewmates still look askance, and the more eager of the midshipman become protective. Laurence remains perfectly capable of command; it is only that he can't help but be absent-minded, sometimes, staring at all the crewmen that pass him like they are nothing but moving paintings. Images of a world that no longer matters.

One evening the midshipmen drag him away to a meal with the other officers. It's a noisy crowd; Laurence would find the friendly bustle comforting in another life.

One of the senior officers, Lieutenant Moore, waves him down as Laurence enters. Evidently they used to be friends, given his notably concerned behavior of late. Laurence can't remember the man, and has a sneaking suspicion he died too soon to make a lasting impression.Moore jostles him when Laurence sits at the long table. “Will! Did you get any letters with the last batch?”

A patrolling gunboat brought a satchel of letters just this morning. “I did not,” Laurence says. He's grateful for the fact. He'd found a few pieces of correspondence in his quarters that he dutifully sent on; he cannot imagine writing a letter now, in this confused state.

“Then you've had no news! Robespierre has gone mad. Madder than before, I suppose.”

“Robespierre?” asks Laurence blankly.

Lieutenant Moore double-takes, as does everyone else around them. “Good lord, Will, please tell me you remember Robespierre?”

Right... Robespierre's reign was brief, but this is when he led France. Some of the things the papers published...

Well, at least Laurence has a well-worn excuse for his ignorance. He plays up his malady: “Yes. I think I recall he was... French?”

Groans of horror mixed with amusement echo around the table. “...Well you aren't wrong,” says Moore, looking pained. “He has styled himself the 'President' of their Assembly, which is some stupid way of being king; the French are all mad about removing and adding words right now. I don't know how they expect anyone to hold a conversation.”

“We should... probably educate Mr. Laurence about the war at some point,” some midshipman mutters. Laurence doesn't recall his name.

Moore sighs again. “Anyway. Robespierre is a tyrant, of course. But he's elected someone else to rule France! Barely more than a boy, too.”

Laurence frowns; he doesn't remember what Moore's talking about. “Why would he do that? Did they capture one of the Bourbons?” Declaring himself regent of a child-prince would at least make sense.

“Well, at least you remember them. No; it is some nobody, a young soldier. Not even French! I cannot fathom it.”

It feels like Laurence has been dunked in ice.

For a moment he can't respond. “What was his name? The soldier.”

“Napoleon Bonaparte. He has been chosen as head of their new heresy, the 'Cult of the Supreme Being,' they're calling it; and now de facto head of the government, too. Must be a priest? I don't know, nothing the French are doing makes sense. I expect his little group will be as short-lived as everything else about these riots.”

But Laurence doesn't think so. “...Excuse me; I'm feeling a bit poorly,” he says, rising on wavering legs.

“Yes, you look it! Go on, we'll tell you about the war later...”

Laurence flees.

[ophelias-rue]

Need to start a book club for people who like Dostoevsky, Kierkegaard, Kafka, Rilke, Nietzsche. Also just to hang out on a discord server or something and be friends. I would like a close little group of friends, God knows it’s a lonely world, but I don’t think it has to be.

I’ve been reading The Idiot and I’m desperate to share my outpouring of feelings with someone. :^)

[princelevmyshkin]

“Your worst sin is that you have destroyed and betrayed yourself for nothing.”

— Fyodor Dostoevsky, “Crime and Punishment”

[poeticalwarrior]

“To whom do I owe the biggest apology? No one’s been crueler than I’ve been to me.” —Alanis Morrisette

Harald Slott-Møller | “Længsel” (1913) | MutualArt

"Your worst sin is that you have destroyed and betrayed yourself for nothing."

- Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment

Art : Feminine stereotypes by Romina Bassu

[former-leftist-jew]

"Imagine what it's like if you've been told you've got the Final Revelation from God, and the Jews are doing better than you. That's uncomfortable."

[planesfly]

I didn't think there could be something more depressing than Dostoevsky, then I discovered Bukowski

[rearranging-deck-chairs]

bad wolf soda <3

[blueheartbooks]

The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" stands as one of the most profound and influential works in the canon of world literature. Published in 1880, this epic novel delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, faith, and existential angst, weaving together a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and psychological insight.

At the heart of "The Brothers Karamazov" are the three titular brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha, each representing different facets of the human psyche and grappling with their own existential dilemmas. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, struggles with his desires and impulses, torn between his love for two women and his sense of honor. Ivan, the intellectual and skeptical middle brother, grapples with the problem of evil and the existence of God in a world filled with suffering. Alyosha, the youngest and most devout brother, seeks spiritual redemption and strives to embody the teachings of his mentor, the elder Zosima.

Through the interconnected stories of the Karamazov family and the residents of their provincial Russian town, Dostoevsky explores a wide range of philosophical and ethical questions, from the nature of morality and free will to the existence of God and the meaning of life. Drawing on his own experiences of poverty, suffering, and spiritual crisis, Dostoevsky imbues his characters with a depth and authenticity that resonate with readers on a profound emotional and intellectual level.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition and the existential struggles that define the human experience. Through the trials and tribulations of the Karamazov brothers, Dostoevsky grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence: What is the nature of good and evil? Is there a higher purpose or meaning to life? How do we reconcile the existence of suffering and injustice with our belief in a just and compassionate God?

Moreover, "The Brothers Karamazov" is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, vividly depicted landscapes, and masterful storytelling. Dostoevsky's prose is by turns lyrical, philosophical, and profoundly moving, capturing the complexities of human emotion and the inner struggles of his characters with a rare depth and insight. From the dark and brooding Dmitri to the idealistic and compassionate Alyosha, each character is rendered with such psychological nuance and complexity that they feel like living, breathing individuals, grappling with their own hopes, fears, and desires.

In conclusion, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a towering achievement of world literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights, moral complexity, and psychological depth. Through its exploration of timeless themes and universal truths, "The Brothers Karamazov" speaks to the enduring mysteries of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning, redemption, and spiritual fulfillment. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and philosophical depth, "The Brothers Karamazov" remains a timeless masterpiece that rewards readers with new insights and revelations with each reading.

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[blueheartbookclub]

The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" stands as one of the most profound and influential works in the canon of world literature. Published in 1880, this epic novel delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, faith, and existential angst, weaving together a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and psychological insight.

At the heart of "The Brothers Karamazov" are the three titular brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha, each representing different facets of the human psyche and grappling with their own existential dilemmas. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, struggles with his desires and impulses, torn between his love for two women and his sense of honor. Ivan, the intellectual and skeptical middle brother, grapples with the problem of evil and the existence of God in a world filled with suffering. Alyosha, the youngest and most devout brother, seeks spiritual redemption and strives to embody the teachings of his mentor, the elder Zosima.

Through the interconnected stories of the Karamazov family and the residents of their provincial Russian town, Dostoevsky explores a wide range of philosophical and ethical questions, from the nature of morality and free will to the existence of God and the meaning of life. Drawing on his own experiences of poverty, suffering, and spiritual crisis, Dostoevsky imbues his characters with a depth and authenticity that resonate with readers on a profound emotional and intellectual level.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition and the existential struggles that define the human experience. Through the trials and tribulations of the Karamazov brothers, Dostoevsky grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence: What is the nature of good and evil? Is there a higher purpose or meaning to life? How do we reconcile the existence of suffering and injustice with our belief in a just and compassionate God?

Moreover, "The Brothers Karamazov" is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, vividly depicted landscapes, and masterful storytelling. Dostoevsky's prose is by turns lyrical, philosophical, and profoundly moving, capturing the complexities of human emotion and the inner struggles of his characters with a rare depth and insight. From the dark and brooding Dmitri to the idealistic and compassionate Alyosha, each character is rendered with such psychological nuance and complexity that they feel like living, breathing individuals, grappling with their own hopes, fears, and desires.

In conclusion, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a towering achievement of world literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights, moral complexity, and psychological depth. Through its exploration of timeless themes and universal truths, "The Brothers Karamazov" speaks to the enduring mysteries of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning, redemption, and spiritual fulfillment. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and philosophical depth, "The Brothers Karamazov" remains a timeless masterpiece that rewards readers with new insights and revelations with each reading.

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[mariathechosen1]

I genuinely need to stop being online. I’m so tired of stupid leftist takes from US-americans that are so clearly just conservative opinions in disguise.

[sneakystorms]

The fact this is being said by a policeman 💀

[snekdood]

ik we talk about "karma" in the sense of "whatever you do will come back to bite you", but in a more realistic sense it just means action. every action has a reaction, etc. which is why its incorrect to blame your god/gods for the way you're mistreated in life bc 1. everyone has free-will and 2. they dont have control over the wheel of karma (at least not in hinduism), so when you're mistreated, you shouldn't ask "what have I done to accrue karma in the form of mistreatment" you should ask "why do these people suck so much", lol. it's not your god/gods punishing you, its other people exercising their free will and choosing to use it in a way that makes them suck as human beings 🤷 dont let people get off the hook by blaming the gods or some sort of nebulous "karma" you cant pin down, blame the people for being pieces of shits, dont let them think they're not actors in this and are just dutifully mistreating you on behalf of the laws of karma, bc they aren't, thats not how karma fucking works.

[mainfaggot]

aristotle's philosophy really established an idea that is so fundamental yet difficult for certain religious ppl to grasp: who gaf if there is an afterlife. be good for the sake of goodness. #enlightened

[zenosanalytic]

#see also: fascists fancy themselves tough and stoic#but their entire world revolves around gnawing terror and it makes them so brittle(via@roach-works)

a REALLY relevant addition here, given the strong/weak rhetoric fascists use around enemies, and their general fetishism of martyrdom/defeat, ala op.

One of the really key things to grasp from studying military/political theory is how counter-intuitive the perception of strength and weakness is.

When a military force takes its strongest unit out of reserve and dedicates it to a battle, it is demonstrating weakness and insecurity. It is losing initiative and being forced to act reactively, rather than remaining flexible - it is a fundamentally defensive behaviour to assault the enemy with a great force. Politically, to engage in strict repression of class enemies, to mercilessly destroy those who threaten your class dictatorship, is something done when your power is, in fact, threatened - when it is weak.

Conversely, it is a sign of great strength to show restraint. Fighting with desperation is done by the desparate, by those who are being forced to act a given way by their enemies. When overmatching the enemy, it is always better to take your time and act deliberately, to force them to battle only on your terms. Attacking the enemy piecemeal, defeating them slowly in detail, implies the ability to force the enemy to act and divide themselves at your will. If you are not seriously threatened, then there is no need to dedicate yourself entirely to a given battle, and you would do much better to avoid doing so.

This is, to the uninitiated, counter-intuitive. People see great shows of force and percieve them as strength. People see restraint and perceive it as a lack of will. People idolise times of great desperation because all they see is the immense action that resulted - and they spurn times of strength and security, because they see a lack of action. Through one means or another, they arrive at a common flaw: the fetishism of defeat.