Title: Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention-and How to Think Deeply Again

By     Narasimhan Vijayaraghavan

In today’s world, FOCUS in all caps, is more important than ever to have it . We are constantly bombarded with distractions, from our phones and more to our social media feeds. Indistractability is a faculty that anyone would love to possess. But even while penning these words, one is taunted and tormented by the ‘zings and pings’ viz. notifications, all around you. How to remain indistracted? Let us focus on focus then.

Johann Hari is a British author, journalist, and writer born on January 21, 1979. He is best known for his thought-provoking works exploring various social and political issues. One of his most notable books is “Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs,” published in 2015. In this book, Hari delves into the history and impact of the global war on drugs, offering a critical perspective on its consequences.

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Moreover, Johann Hari has also written extensively about mental health and depression. His book “Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions” was published in 2018, examining the societal factors contributing to depression and proposing alternative approaches to treatment.

Now to the amazing stories from his new book on our table.

The day multitasking almost cost me my life. Hari tells the story of how he was driving home one day when he was multitasking by fiddling with his iPod. He wasn’t paying attention to the road, and he almost crashed his car. This experience made him realize how important it is to focus on one thing at a time.

The vet who diagnoses dogs with ADHD. Hari meets a vet who diagnoses dogs with ADHD. The vet explains that dogs are just as susceptible to the effects of multitasking and attention-deficit as humans are. This story shows how widespread the problem of attention loss has become.

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The favela in Rio where everyone lost their attention. Hari visits a favela in Rio de Janeiro where everyone has lost their attention. The people in the favela are constantly bombarded with noise and stimulation, and they have become unable to focus on anything for very long. This story shows how the environment can have a profound impact on our ability to focus.

The office in New Zealand that discovered a remarkable technique to restore their workers’ attention. Hari visits an office in New Zealand where the workers have discovered a remarkable technique to restore their attention. The workers take regular breaks to go outside and walk in nature. This simple technique has helped them to focus more effectively and to be more productive.

The book is full of stories that will make you think about the importance of focus in our modern world.A few other amazing anecdotes from the book:The study that showed that students who took a break to daydream before a test did better than those who didn’t.The experiment that showed that people who were interrupted while working on a task were more likely to make mistakes.The story of the man who was so addicted to his phone that he had to have it surgically removed from his hand.

This  week’s book is-

Title: Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention-and How to Think Deeply Again
Author: Johann Hari
Genre: Self-help, nonfiction
Publication date: 2022

Stolen Focus is a book about the attention crisis. Hari argues that our ability to focus has been declining for decades, and that this decline is due to a number of factors, including the rise of technology, the decline of nature, and the increasing pace of life.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part explores the history of attention and how it has changed over time. The second part examines the factors that are contributing to the attention crisis. The third part offers solutions for how to reclaim our focus.

Hari’s writing is clear and engaging, and he does a good job of weaving together personal anecdotes, scientific research, and historical analysis. He also interviews a wide range of experts, including neuroscientists, psychologists, and technology executives.

Stolen Focus is an important book that raises some serious concerns about the future of our attention. Hari’s solutions are not always easy to implement, but they are worth considering if we want to reclaim our focus and live more meaningful lives.

If this 5 minute read could take place without loss of focus,  you may have it in you to become Indistractible!

(Writer of multiple books and practicing advocate in the Madras High Court)

A Thought-Provoking Masterpiece by Christopher Nolan

— By Janaki Balasubramanian

Director Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” (2023) is a remarkable cinematic achievement. It delves into the life and moral complexities of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant physicist. He is one of the key figures behind the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.

Plot and Storytelling

The film revolves around the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, played skillfully by a captivating actor, Cillian Murphy. He brings depth and vulnerability to the character. Nolan’s non-linear narrative style is a hallmark of his directorial expertise. Nolan adds layers of intrigue and suspense to the film. The story fluidly shifts between pivotal moments in Oppenheimer’s life, from his academic days to the Manhattan Project. Further, focus on ethical dilemmas he faces as the destructive power of the atomic bomb becomes apparent.

Nolan skillfully balances historical accuracy with artistic liberty. He presents the audience with an immersive experience that challenges their preconceptions. It provides a fresh perspective on Oppenheimer’s life and decisions.

Cinematography, Visuals and Music

“Oppenheimer” is a visual spectacle that showcases Christopher Nolan’s signature aesthetic style. The film’s cinematography is breathtaking. The sweeping shots of the New Mexico desert and intimate close-ups bring out the emotional turmoil of the characters. The juxtaposition of the beauty of nature with the imminent destruction brought about by Oppenheimer’s scientific discoveries adds a poignant layer to the film.

Hans Zimmer’s evocative and powerful musical score complements and performances and the film’s emotional arc.

Themes and Philosophy

As with many of Nolan’s films, “Oppenheimer” explores complex themes and moral dilemmas. The film prompts the audience to reflect on the consequences of scientific discoveries. The ethical implications of unleashing powerful technologies upon the world. Nolan doesn’t shy away from the human cost of Oppenheimer’s work. The film raises profound questions about the responsibility of scientists and the consequences of their actions on humanity.

In addition to the ethical aspects, “Oppenheimer” also delves into the personal struggles and sacrifices of the individuals involved in the Manhattan Project. The movie humanizes these historical figures beyond their roles in shaping world history.

Conclusion

“Oppenheimer” seamlessly weaves together history, science, and philosophy to create a thought-provoking narrative. This aspect challenges the audience’s perception of one of the most significant events in modern history. With its outstanding performances, breathtaking visuals, and resonant themes, “Oppenheimer” leaves a lasting impression. It establishes itself as a must-watch film in the pantheon of thought-provoking cinema.