However, there are some “meat space” books that should be required reading, including …

[1] The Underground History of American Education: A Schoolteacher’s Intimate Investigation Into the Problem of Modern Schooling (2000, 2006), by John Taylor Gatto

[2] Deschooling Society (1971), by Ivan Illich

AI Overview: “Charles de Gaulle had a complex relationship with the U.S., respecting American power but prioritizing French independence. He admired U.S. strength and was a staunch ally against Communism, but he was wary of American dominance, which led him to withdraw French forces from NATO’s integrated military command and pursue an independent nuclear deterrent for France. He saw the U.S. relationship as beneficial but sought to ensure France was a partner, not a subordinate. [1] As a WWII ally: De Gaulle recognized the U.S. as a crucial power that would ensure victory. However, he was focused on ensuring France’s role was seen as a necessary ally, not a defeated nation, to secure its place at the post-war table. He was cordial but suspicious of American influence and role in colonial territories. [2] Post-war concerns: After the war, de Gaulle viewed the U.S. relationship with a degree of suspicion. He saw American ‘idealism’ as a cover for its ‘will to power’. He was concerned that a close alliance with the U.S. would compromise France’s sovereignty. [3] NATO and military independence: De Gaulle strongly opposed the U.S. dominance within NATO, viewing the alliance as a tool for American control over Europe. This led him to withdraw French military forces from NATO’s command in 1966 and insist that U.S. forces leave French soil. [4] Nuclear deterrent: De Gaulle’s pursuit of France’s own nuclear force was driven by a lack of trust in the American commitment to defend Europe with its own nuclear weapons. He wanted France to have the capability for self-defense in an ultimate emergency, unconstrained by U.S. decisions. [5] Cooperation despite reservations: Despite his deep-seated concerns, de Gaulle was a firm ally against Communism and supported the U.S. during crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was willing to cooperate as long as French independence was preserved.”

AI Overview: “Sartre had a complex view of the U.S., initially fascinated by its culture and democratic ideals but later disillusioned by American conformity and racial inequality. His writings show an early enthusiasm for American art, jazz, and literature, and a sympathy for its democratic principles, which he felt were rooted in Protestant values. However, his 1945-1946 travels led him to a critical view, arguing that American ‘individualism’ was a form of conformism, and he sharply criticized its racism and the dehumanizing effects of its capitalist system.”

AI Overview: “Most people do not really want freedom, because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility.”