Communication: It's Definition, Process, Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication and Barriers

 Communication

Media and Modes

 

Media and Modes:

Conventional Modes of Communication:

Movie Review: Don’t Look Up

Don’t Look Up

Today, I watched an intriguing science fiction film on Netflix titled Don’t Look Up, directed by Adam McKay. Released on December 10, 2021, this apocalyptic satire offers a sharp critique of modern society.

I first heard of this film during my master's classes on Globalization and the Future of Postcolonial Studies. Barad Sir referenced it in the context of environmental crises, particularly drawing upon Ania Loomba's insights from her seminal works. Watching the film today reminded me of those discussions and brought these pressing issues to life in a way only cinema can.

Trailer of the Film:

The movie, a black comedy with undertones of tragedy, brilliantly addresses heavy topics through humor. The story follows a comet discovered by Kate Dibiasky, a doctoral candidate in astronomy. Dr. Randall Mindy, her professor, confirms that this comet, hurtling toward Earth, is on a collision course that will destroy the planet in six months and fourteen days.

What follows is a scathing commentary on political apathy, media sensationalism, and societal denial. When Kate and Dr. Mindy present their findings to the President of the United States, Janie Orlean, and her Chief of Staff (who also happens to be her son), they are met with indifference and a shocking lack of urgency. Frustrated by the administration's inaction, they turn to the media, only to find that even the gravest of news is trivialized and overshadowed by celebrity gossip.

The comet becomes a polarizing issue. The government’s initial attempt to destroy it is abruptly abandoned in favor of a profit-driven scheme led by Peter Isherwell, a tech billionaire. His plan to mine the comet’s valuable minerals epitomizes corporate greed, while the political leadership further misleads the public by launching the cynical campaign “Don’t Look Up.”

As the comet becomes visible in the sky, society spirals into chaos. Some deny its existence outright, others fall prey to conspiracy theories, and a few rally behind the scientists’ desperate plea to “Just Look Up.” Tragically, these efforts come too late. The comet collides with Earth, triggering an extinction-level event. Meanwhile, the elites escape to a distant planet, leaving the masses to face their doom—a stark metaphor for the inequality and self-preservation of the powerful.

Watching this film, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to our real world. The behavior of the political leaders—minimizing the catastrophe to protect their interests—felt disturbingly familiar. It is a sobering reminder of how those in power often prioritize personal gain over collective well-being, even in the face of imminent danger.

The film also critiques the role of media, which often prioritizes entertainment over substantive issues. The anchors’ flippant remarks about the comet—jokingly suggesting it target an ex-spouse—reflect the absurdity of modern news culture, where critical issues are buried under frivolous headlines.

Don’t Look Up is a biting allegory of humanity’s greatest flaws: denial, greed, and apathy. It holds up a mirror to our times, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about climate change, political corruption, and societal complacency. The film left me pondering a haunting question: if faced with a catastrophe of this scale, would we act any differently?

For me, the most poignant moment was when the comet became visible, and the scientists’ warnings—dismissed for so long—finally came true. It was a terrible sight, made worse by the realization that those with the power to prevent disaster chose to save themselves instead.

The film’s ending was particularly chilling. When the elites wake up on a distant planet and marvel at its pristine beauty, their encounter with a native creature is a darkly humorous reminder of the absurdity of their hubris. It underscores the film’s central message: no amount of wealth or privilege can shield humanity from the consequences of its collective irresponsibility.

Ultimately, Don’t Look Up is not just a story about a comet but a profound commentary on the state of humanity. It warns us about the consequences of ignoring science, trusting incompetent leadership, and valuing profit over survival. As the credits rolled, I couldn’t help but reflect: how long can we continue down this path before reality catches up with us?

Key Reflections:

1️⃣ Political Irresponsibility: The film brilliantly highlights the negligence of those in power, who prioritize personal gain over collective well-being. It’s a biting critique of how governments often ignore or downplay real threats.

2️⃣ Media Satire: The role of media as a distractor rather than an informer is painfully accurate. The obsession with trivial stories while sidelining urgent issues mirrors the reality we witness daily.

3️⃣ Environmental Parallels: The comet serves as a metaphor for the environmental crises we face today—deforestation, mining, pollution, and climate change. Just like in the movie, these issues are often ignored or exploited by those in power.

4️⃣ Human Apathy: The division among people—those who deny, those who mock, and those who ignore—is a sharp reminder of how misinformation and complacency can blind society to imminent dangers.

This film serves as a wake-up call to look beyond the distractions, hold those in power accountable, and, most importantly, to "Just Look Up." 🌍🚀

Note: The language of thi blog is refined with the assistance of ChatGPT.

Classroom Activities: Business Card Introduction & Message Relay

A Memorable Start to Semester 2! 🌟

Yesterday and Today were truly special as I organized two engaging activities for my B.Com Semester 2 students: Message Relay and Business Card Introduction. Seeing all the students actively participate was heartwarming and a reminder of why I love teaching! 

In the rush of last semester, we barely had moments to connect on a deeper level, but these activities brought us closer as a class. It was wonderful to see my students, who are usually a bit introverted and hesitant to speak, step out of their comfort zones. Many of them are not fully fluent in English, but their determination to participate and communicate in English was commendable. 🌟

During the Message Relay activity, they experienced firsthand why active listening and effective speaking are so important. I linked it to the concepts we covered last semester in Fundamentals of Communication Skills, which made it both a fun and a learning experience. They realized that if the message isn’t passed on correctly, it can create confusion—a simple yet powerful lesson in communication! 

The Business Card Introduction activity was another great way for them to practice speaking professionally and introducing themselves with confidence. Watching them improve after receiving corrections and their willingness to learn made me so proud. Their small steps towards progress are huge milestones in building their confidence and skills. 🙌

I feel these activities have broken the ice and helped us establish a stronger bond. I’m excited to continue this journey with them and look forward to more such fun and impactful sessions this semester. Here's to growth, learning, and connection! 💪✨

Watching them improve, learn from corrections, and grow in confidence was truly rewarding. It's a big win for all of us! 💪 Here's to more interactive sessions and learning together this semester! 🌟

Destination Reading: Shulpaneswar from Amritlal Vegad's Travelogue 'Parikrama Narmda Maiyani'

 After a long hiatus, I’m excited to share this new post—a special experience that combines reading and exploring places. I chose to read a chapter from Shulpaneshwar, part of Amritlal Vegad’s travelogue Parikrama Narmada Maiyani. The concept I explored here is called “destination reading,” where the text and the real-world location it describes come together to create an immersive and meaningful experience.

The Inspiration

The idea of destination reading was inspired by a lecture on The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Prof. Dr. Dilip Barad, from the Department of English, MKBU. In that lecture, sir shared a video showcasing destination reading in Delhi, where locations mentioned in the novel were explored. This approach stayed with me, and I was eager to try it myself someday.

Why Shulpaneshwar?

Ever since I began working in Rajpipla, the name Shulpaneshwar kept resonating in my mind. It reminded me of a chapter I studied during my school days, a memory I had nearly forgotten until now. This nostalgia encouraged me to revisit the place—not only as a traveler but also as a reader.

I bought Amritlal Vegad’s Parikrama Narmada Maiyani online and began reading it, where I encountered his vivid descriptions of Shulpaneshwar. This was enough to ignite my curiosity to visit the place and experience it firsthand, while also reflecting on how Vegad portrayed it in his work.

This trip marked my fourth visit to the Statue of Unity, yet during every previous visit, I missed the chance to explore Shulpaneshwar for various reasons. Determined not to let that happen again, I finally made it to the place this time.

The visit was a blend of nostalgia and discovery. While many things have changed over time, I could still sense the essence of Shulpaneshwar that Vegad had beautifully captured in his book. The serene surroundings and cultural significance of the place made the experience unforgettable.

A Lesson Learned

In my excitement, I forgot to carry my Bluetooth device, which could have significantly enhanced the audio quality of the video I recorded. Although the oversight was disappointing, it served as a reminder to be more prepared in the future.

The Significance of Destination Reading

This journey highlighted how destination reading can transform our relationship with literature. By exploring the very locations described in a narrative, the text comes alive in an entirely new way. It deepens our understanding of the story and its setting while fostering a stronger connection between the reader and the writer's perspective.

Visiting Shulpaneshwar through the lens of Vegad’s work wasn’t just a journey to a place; it was a journey into the heart of his narrative. It allowed me to reflect on how stories and real-world experiences can complement one another, enriching both in the process.

I hope this post inspires others to try destination reading and to revisit their favorite books in the context of the places they describe. Literature has a unique way of bringing places to life, and visiting those places can, in turn, bring literature to life in unexpected ways.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you’ve ever experienced destination reading or have a favorite book-location pairing, I’d love to hear about it!

Book Review: Insights on 'Tatvamasi' by Dhruv Bhatt

The Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue, stands majestically on the banks of the Narmada River. My recent visit to the Statue of Unity—the second one—was a deeply reflective experience, stirring thoughts that connected my work at Birsa Munda Tribal University and my reading of 'Tatvamasi' by Dhruv Bhatt. The towering monument of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel stands as a symbol of unity and leadership, but for me, this visit held much more meaning beyond the physical structure. It led to a contemplation of the tribal communities living near the Narmada River, their traditions, struggles, and the deep spiritual connection they share with nature.

The Intersection of Work, Nature, and Literature

This reflection is tied to my current professional and personal journey. Since I began working at Birsa Munda Tribal University, located in Rajpipla, I’ve become more aware of the tribal communities that surround us and the life they lead—often close to the land and deeply rooted in traditions passed down over generations. My work in this environment, combined with Dhruv Bhatt’s novel 'Tatvamasi', has enriched my understanding of these people and their worldview, offering me a unique lens to appreciate their relationship with nature and spirituality.

"આનંદ કેવો છે, તે જગ્યા અને સમયથી મૌલિક રીતે જોડાયેલો છે." 

(The joy one experiences is inherently connected to the place and time.) 

This line from Tatvamasi reverberated within me as I navigated the real-world parallels between the novel and my work. Being amidst nature, in a region so deeply interwoven with the traditions of tribal communities, I could feel the weight of Bhatt’s words. Reading 'Tatvamasi' in this context has been an enriching experience, as the novel aligns perfectly with my environment. Bhatt’s detailed depiction of the people, places, and culture around the Narmada River is more than just fiction—it mirrors the reality I encounter daily in my work and travels.

‘Tatvamasi’ by Dhruv Bhatt: An Overview

‘The novel 'Tatvamasi' is an exceptional piece of Gujarati literature, capturing the essence of tribal life along the Narmada River. It vividly depicts the people, their traditions, their relationship with nature, and the geographical beauty of the area. The novel revolves around an unnamed narrator who returns to India after many years at the request of his professor, Rudolf, to conduct research on tribal communities.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to immerse the reader into the depths of tribal life. Through the narrator’s eyes, we observe the simple yet profound existence of these people, who live in harmony with nature, often amidst dire poverty. Bhatt introduces a range of characters—Supriya, BittuBanga, Ganesh Shastri, Guptaji, Puriya, Gandu Fakir, and Ditya—each of whom adds depth to the story, representing different facets of life, spirituality, and wisdom.

"પ્રકૃતિ અને માનવી, બંનેના સંબંધમાં ભક્તિ છે." (There is devotion in the relationship between nature and humanity.) 

This line, echoed throughout the book, perfectly encapsulates the theme of unity that runs through the novel and my experiences. It calls to attention the intrinsic bond between the tribal communities and their environment.

Reflections and Connections

Reading 'Tatvamasi' and visiting the Statue of Unity has led me to reflect on several themes and ideas that have become more prominent in my mind since working at Birsa Munda Tribal University. The intersection of modern development, as symbolized by the Statue of Unity, with the ancient, deeply rooted traditions of the tribal people around the Narmada River, creates a complex tapestry of thought.

The Impact of Development on Tribal Communities

One of the recurring thoughts during my visit to the Statue of Unity was the contrast between the grandeur of the statue and the simplicity of tribal life as portrayed in 'Tatvamasi'. The statue, a marvel of modern engineering, stands as a symbol of India’s progress and unity. Yet, the tribal communities that have lived near the Narmada for generations often remain marginalized, their ways of life threatened by the very development that the statue represents.

"આ પાણીની જેમ આપણી પરંપરાઓ પણ વહેતી રહેવી જોઈએ, રોકાઈ નહિ." (Like this water, our traditions too should flow freely, not be halted.) This line from Tatvamasi reflects the tension between preservation and progress. The novel emphasizes the close connection between the tribal people and their environment, reminding us that development can sometimes obstruct the very essence of life for these communities.

Spirituality and Nature in 'Tatvamasi'

Another striking theme in 'Tatvamasi' is the profound spirituality that governs the lives of the tribal characters. For them, nature is not just a resource to be used, but a living entity to be revered. The Narmada River is sacred, and their existence is deeply tied to its ebb and flow.

In the novel, characters like Supriya and Gandu Fakir represent different aspects of this spirituality. Supriya, who runs an ashram deep in the forest, is devoted to preserving the tribal way of life and ensuring that their traditions are respected. Gandu Fakir, on the other hand, embodies the more mystical, philosophical side of tribal spirituality, offering insights that go beyond religious doctrine and speak to a deeper understanding of life and the universe.

"અહીં, કુદરત છે એટલે ભક્તિ છે, આ કાનૂનથી નહિ ચાલે." (Here, there is devotion because there is nature; this doesn’t operate by law.) The novel shows that for the tribal people, spirituality is a daily lived experience, deeply connected to their natural surroundings, something that resonates with my own observations.

Characters that Reflect Tribal Life

Each character in 'Tatvamasi' plays a significant role in bringing the narrative to life and highlighting different aspects of tribal culture.

• Supriya is perhaps the most pivotal character, representing a bridge between the traditional and the modern. She is committed to protecting the tribal people and ensuring that their connection to the land and nature is not lost in the rush toward modernization.

• Bitubanga, the inseparable duo, showcases the creative genius of the tribal communities. Their architectural and artistic skills are highlighted, emphasizing how the tribes create structures that harmonize with their environment.

• Ganesh Shastri offers a critical perspective on religious dogma, advocating for a more inclusive, spiritual approach that transcends rigid ritualistic practices.

• Gandu Fakir, as mentioned earlier, brings a philosophical depth to the novel, reminding the reader that true spirituality is found in everyday actions and choices, not in grand displays of piety.

Supriya: Embodiment of Selflessness and Cultural Preservation

One of the most compelling characters in the novel is Supriya, a woman who lives in the heart of the forest, running a small ashram dedicated to serving the tribal people. Her character stands out because of her deep commitment to preserving the tribal way of life. Unlike many outsiders who try to impose changes or modernize the tribes, Supriya’s approach is rooted in respect. She believes that it’s not her role to change these people but to support their traditions and way of life.

The narrator is initially surprised by Supriya, expecting an older, Gandhian figure but finding instead a young, vibrant woman who is deeply intellectual and spiritual. Supriya is not just a caretaker of the people but a preserver of their culture, someone who navigates the complex dynamics between tribal traditions and the outside world with wisdom and grace. She embodies the ideal of selflessness, devoting her life to ensuring that the tribal people maintain their autonomy and connection to nature.

Her character reminds me of the importance of humility when interacting with cultures different from our own. Like Supriya, we should aim to support rather than impose, understanding that true respect comes from recognizing the value of traditions that may seem foreign to us.

Gandu Fakir: Spiritual Wisdom and Discipline

Another unforgettable character in the novel is Gandu Fakir, a man who appears to be a madman but whose words and actions reveal deep spiritual insight. He embodies the idea that true spirituality is not confined to religious rituals or doctrines but is something much more profound, connected to the soul and the universe itself.

In one memorable scene, Gandu Fakir, Supriya, the narrator, and Bitubanga are invited to eat at a local's home in the jungle, but when they arrive, there is nothing to offer except Mahudi, a traditional drink, and salt. The extreme poverty of the region is evident here, as the host struggles to even provide basic sustenance. Gandu Fakir’s response is telling: he drinks the Mahudi, while Supriya accepts a pinch of salt, respecting the gesture of hospitality despite the humble offering.

Later, when Supriya offers to feed Gandu Fakir at the ashram, he refuses, saying:

"છોરી મે કયું આતા હું તેરે સાથ? મતલબ સમજતી હો? મતલબ મે સમજતા હું. અગર આજ મે તેરે ઘર ખાતા હું તો મતલબ હે અસ બુઢને હમે ભૂખ નિકાલા હૈ."

This line struck me because it shows the depth of Gandu Fakir’s understanding of spiritual discipline. He sees eating elsewhere as an insult to the hospitality they’ve already received, showing his commitment to living with integrity, even in the smallest actions. His refusal is not madness, as it first seems, but a reflection of his deeper spiritual principles.

Another powerful moment comes during a musical function, where Gandu Fakir sings a song:

“મે હું બંદા તેરા, મે હું આશિક તેરા

મે તો દિવાનાં હું, મેરે સિજદોં કા કયા?

મે નમાજી બનું યા શરાબી બનૂં

બંદગી મેરે ઘર સે કહા જાયેગી?”

Afterward, someone refers to Gandu Fakir as mad, to which Ganesh Shastri responds: "આપ જિસકી આરાધના કરતે હૈ ઔર મે જિસકી પૂજા કરતાં હું, ઉસકા દોસ્ત હૈ વહ." These lines convey something profound about spirituality—about the connection between religion and the soul that transcends rituals and formal beliefs.

Gandu Fakir’s character illustrates the idea that spirituality is not about grand gestures or public displays of piety. It’s about how we live our everyday lives, the choices we make, and the respect we show to others, even in the smallest interactions. This resonates with the simplicity and integrity that is often found in tribal cultures, where spirituality is deeply embedded in everyday life, rather than being a separate, formalized practice.

Ganesh Shastri: Critique of Religious Dogma

The character of Ganesh Shastri offers another layer of philosophical depth to the novel. A man deeply religious but not confined by dogma, Shastri represents a more open, inclusive view of spirituality. In his exchanges with Gupta, Shastri questions the rigid adherence to religious rituals and emphasizes the importance of spirituality over formal religion.

One of his lines that resonated with me was:

'આ દેશ અધ્યાત્મ પર ટકે છે, ધર્મ પર નહિ.'

(This country survives on spirituality, not on religion.)

Shastri’s views on dharma are crystal clear, and I will quote him directly to preserve the original essence of his words:

"ગુપ્તાજીએ કહ્યું, 'ઓ હમારે ધરમથી નહિ, અલગ ધરમથી કામ કરેગા.'...

'બસ, આ જ વાત. ગુપ્તાજીએ દલીલ કરી, 'મન્ને તો ધરમ કે નિયમ પાલના હૈ…'"

Shastri's reflections challenge the rigid frameworks of religion, instead focusing on the cultural practices that sustain society. He questions the very notion of what we consider religious duty, highlighting the distinction between spirituality and organized religion. According to Shastri, the real strength of Indian culture lies in its spiritual freedom, which transcends the confines of dharma and ritual.

As the novel unfolds, the narrator himself grapples with these ideas, reflecting on his own lack of faith in ritualistic practices while acknowledging the importance of having faith in humanity and in the tribal civilization he is studying. When he expresses the desire to "improve" the tribal people, Shastri gently questions the right to impose change, saying, “આદિવાસીઓને સુધારવાનો અધિકાર આપનો છે કે નહીં તે હું નથી જાણતો. 'હા, તું જો આદિવાસીઓના જીવન સુધારી શકે તો મને ખૂબ આનંદ થાય", This prompts reflection on how we, as outsiders, often seek to reform others without first understanding their true needs.

Shastri’s words are a powerful critique of the way religious practices often overshadow the deeper spiritual truths they are meant to express. He advocates for a spiritual connection that transcends the boundaries of any single religion, suggesting that true spirituality is about our personal relationship with the divine, or Brahma, rather than the rituals and doctrines of organized religion.

In a country like India, where religion plays a huge role in daily life, Shastri’s perspective is a reminder of the importance of looking beyond the rituals to the essence of what spirituality truly means. His view is especially relevant today, where divisions along religious lines often overshadow the common spiritual values that bind us together as human beings.

Bitubanga: A Symbol of Tribal Wisdom

The duo of Bittu and Banga, collectively referred to as Bitubanga, adds yet another dimension to the novel. These two characters are inseparable and represent the architectural and creative brilliance of the tribal people. Their ability to build structures that blend seamlessly with nature, serving both human and divine purposes, is a testament to the tribal wisdom that has been passed down through generations.

When Banga is killed by a tiger, Bittu’s grief is overwhelming, but what is most striking is his response. Despite his desire for revenge, Bittu chooses to let the tigress live, understanding that she, too, is a mother protecting her cubs. This act of forgiveness and compassion highlights the deep respect that the tribal people have for all life, even in the face of personal loss.

The character of Bitubanga symbolizes the wisdom of simplicity—the idea that true strength comes not from domination over nature but from living in harmony with it. This is a theme that resonates throughout the novel and is reflected in the lives of the tribal people, who have learned to adapt to their environment rather than trying to control it.

Belief systems/Blind Faith:

In Tatvamasi, Dhruv Bhatt subtly explores how tribal communities often hold onto certain superstitions or beliefs that, while rooted in their traditional worldview, may sometimes lead to misinterpretations. A key example of this is the character of Puriya, who is seen as a witch by the community. This perception highlights the element of blind faith prevalent among the tribal people, where fear and misunderstanding often shape their beliefs about individuals and events.

The notion of wildfire prediction is another example where natural events are linked with spiritual or mystical significance. While these predictions might stem from accumulated knowledge and observation of nature, they also reflect the tribes’ mystical interpretation of natural occurrences. In the novel, such beliefs—though part of the rich cultural fabric—can occasionally distort reality, leading to misunderstandings or fear-based judgments.

This portrayal emphasizes the thin line between traditional wisdom and superstition, showing how tribal people might lean on faith and tradition to explain complex or unexpected phenomena, rather than relying on empirical understanding. Through these examples, Bhatt raises questions about the effects of blind faith in communities that otherwise possess deep connections to nature and spiritual practices. The assumptions made about Puriya being a witch, for instance, point to the dangers of misinterpretation within closely-knit societies where such labels can have long-lasting consequences.

Ecocriticism and the Connection to Nature:

One of the most important themes in ‘Tatvamasi’ is the connection between humans and nature, a theme central to ecocriticism. The novel highlights how the tribal people depend on the land for their survival, but it also shows how nature can be both nurturing and destructive. The wildfires that force people to flee their homes serve as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists between humans and their environment.

This relationship between the tribes and their environment is one of mutual respect. The people understand that they are part of the natural world, not separate from it, and their survival depends on maintaining that balance. This theme is especially relevant in today’s world, where environmental degradation and climate change are threatening the survival of communities like these, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.

Interestingly, when I watched the movie ‘Reva’, which is based on the novel, I noticed that many of these ecological elements were downplayed or lost in the adaptation. The film focuses more on the human drama, but the environmental context—which is so integral to the novel—is not given the same weight. This is a crucial aspect of the story that I think deserves more attention, as it is the land itself that shapes the lives and beliefs of the characters in the novel.

Click Here for the detailed study on The Statue of Unity, Narmada Dam and it's impact on the tribal people as a postcolonial Critique:

Conclusion: An Ongoing Reflection:

My experiences—visiting the Statue of Unity, working at Birsa Munda Tribal University, and reading 'Tatvamasi'—have created a space for reflection on the tribal communities that have long called the Narmada region home. "વિશ્વ તત્વમસિ, તું તે છે." (The world is you, you are it.) This core teaching from the novel encapsulates the universal truth of interconnectedness, a message that resonates as I navigate these experiences.

The novel captures the delicate balance these communities maintain with nature and the spiritual wisdom that guides their lives. At the same time, the Statue of Unity stands as a reminder of India’s progress and ambition, making me question how development and tradition can coexist without one overpowering the other.

Book Review: The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

The Courage to Be Disliked 

The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga might seem at first like just another self-help book, with bold claims on the cover about how it can "change your life" and help you "achieve real happiness." These kinds of statements are common in motivational books, and they might make you think this is just another one of those books filled with generic advice. But as you start reading, it becomes clear that this book is something different. It explores deep psychological and philosophical ideas based on the work of Alfred Adler, an Austrian medical doctor and psychotherapist.

The book is written as a conversation between two characters: a philosopher and a young man. The young man questions the philosopher, particularly about Adler’s idea that "the world is simple, and life is too." This dialogue style makes the book more engaging and easier to connect with, as it feels like you’re part of a conversation rather than just reading a lecture. The back-and-forth between the two characters is similar to the way ancient philosophers like Socrates taught, by asking questions and discussing ideas in depth.

In the afterword, Kishimi talks about how he was influenced by Adler’s ideas through his co-author, Koga. He even compares Koga to Plato, who was a student and writer for the famous philosopher Socrates.

Who Was Alfred Adler?

Before getting into the main ideas of the book, it’s important to understand who Alfred Adler was and why his ideas are significant.

Alfred Adler (1870–1937) was an Austrian medical doctor and psychotherapist who created a new approach to psychology called Individual Psychology. Unlike Sigmund Freud, who focused on the unconscious mind and how it shapes behavior, Adler was more interested in social relationships and how a person’s place in society influences their personality. He believed that feelings of belonging and the role someone plays in their family (like being the oldest or youngest child) are crucial to understanding their behavior.

One of Adler’s key ideas is the "inferiority complex." He argued that everyone experiences feelings of inferiority at some point, but what matters is how we respond to these feelings. Overcoming them is essential for personal growth. Adler’s approach was more focused on how people relate to others and how they can contribute positively to society, rather than just looking at internal conflicts.

Adler’s theories have had a big impact on psychology, especially in areas like child development, education, and leadership. His ideas about how people’s goals and social connections affect their mental health have influenced many areas of study. However, some of Adler’s views, especially on topics like homosexuality, have been controversial and are not widely accepted today. Despite this, his work remains influential in understanding personality and mental health within a social context.

The Book’s Central Idea: Life Is Simple

The main idea of The Courage to Be Disliked is the philosopher’s statement that "the world is simple, and life is too." The young man in the book represents the doubts and questions that many of us have when we hear such a bold statement. Throughout the book, he challenges the philosopher, asking questions that reflect the confusion and complexity we often feel in our own lives.

As I read, I found that many of the young man’s questions were similar to my own. Initially, the philosopher’s answers seemed too simplistic or unrealistic, especially when compared to the complicated reality we live in. But as the discussion continued, I started to see the value in the philosopher’s perspective.

One of the first concepts the philosopher introduces is "teleology," which is the study of the purpose or goal of something rather than its cause. We are often taught to think about why something happened, which is called aetiology. For example, if you have a problem, you might think it’s because of something that happened in your past. Adler, however, challenges this idea. He argues that instead of focusing on what caused a situation, we should focus on what we want to achieve now and in the future.

This is a key point in Adlerian psychology: it’s not about what happened in the past, but about what goals you set for yourself in the present. Adler believed that "people are not driven by past causes, but move toward goals that they themselves set." In other words, what matters is not the circumstances you were born into or what happened to you, but how you use your abilities and opportunities to achieve your goals.

Interpersonal Relationships: The Root of All Problems

Another major idea in the book is that all problems are essentially problems of interpersonal relationships. According to Adler, many of our struggles come from how we interact with others and how we perceive their behavior toward us. For instance, we might feel hurt or offended by the way someone talks to us or treats us. Adler suggests that these feelings often arise because we are not clear about what is our responsibility and what is not.

He introduces the idea of "separating tasks" in relationships. For example, it’s not your job to worry about what other people think of you—that’s their task. Your task is to focus on your own behavior and how you interact with the world. This can be difficult because we often care a lot about what others think of us and fear being disliked. But Adler argues that true freedom comes from accepting that you cannot control others' thoughts and focusing instead on your own actions and goals.

Adler also discusses the common feelings of inferiority that people experience, which can lead to a constant desire to prove oneself or to be superior to others. This is often linked to the fear of being judged or disliked. The book encourages readers to see others not as competitors but as comrades, which can help reduce feelings of inferiority and improve relationships.

The Importance of Enjoying the Process

One of the most impactful ideas in the book is its perspective on how we should approach life. Rather than seeing life as a race to reach the top or achieve certain goals, the book suggests that we should focus on enjoying the process. Life isn’t about reaching a peak, but about "dancing" through the journey, appreciating each moment as it comes.

If we focus only on the end goal, we risk missing out on the experiences that truly make life meaningful. The process—how we live each day, the challenges we face, and the relationships we build—is more important than the final outcome. This idea encourages a shift in perspective, from striving solely for success to finding satisfaction in the everyday moments of life.

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While The Courage to Be Disliked might seem at first like other motivational books, its foundation in Alfred Adler’s psychology gives it a unique depth. The ideas presented are not just about feeling better or achieving success but about fundamentally rethinking how we approach life and relationships. Some parts of the book might feel confusing or counterintuitive, especially when the young man’s doubts resonate more than the philosopher’s answers. However, as you explore the dialogue, the reasoning behind these ideas becomes clearer, offering valuable insights into how we can live more fulfilling lives.

I’m grateful to Himal Pandya Sir for providing this book, as it has helped me gain a deeper understanding of life and how to navigate its complexities.