Anatol Rapoport Poradie kníh

Focusing on the intricate relationships between culture and the physical environment, this volume presents an eclectic collection of perspectives drawn from various disciplines, including psychology, geography, and anthropology. Contributors explore how cultural factors influence environmental design and the variability of these relationships across different contexts. The volume is organized with the collaboration of Amos Rapoport, who integrates anthropology and architecture, enriching the discourse on environmental design. Future volumes will continue to delve into specific topics, including transportation.

The book explores the critical distinction between normative and descriptive decision theory, emphasizing their relevance in understanding decision-making processes. Normative decision theory focuses on how rational decisions should be made, employing formal mathematical language and rigorous definitions. In contrast, descriptive decision theory examines how people actually make decisions in real-life situations, often influenced by complex details and ambiguities. This comprehensive approach aims to clarify the theoretical foundations of decision-making while acknowledging the intricacies of human behavior.

This book presents a systemic view of societal, cultural, and scientific evolution over the past two centuries. It is the latest work by a leading thinker in systems theory and the peace movement, Anatol Rapoport, the last surviving founder of the “Society for General Systems Research.” A professor emeritus of Mathematics and Psychology at the University of Toronto, Rapoport has authored over 400 publications, including around 30 books, covering diverse subjects such as Philosophy, Systems Theory, Game Theory, and Peace Research. His writings reflect a systemic perspective, showcasing his inquisitive mind and prolific writing ability. In this opus, Rapoport synthesizes his thoughts through a Socratic dialogue with three Russian interlocutors: Leo Tolstoy, Feodor Dostoevsky, and Vladimir Lenin, all of whom share an obsession with struggle and debate. Rapoport masterfully blends Mathematics and Philosophy, with the most significant insights found in the final chapter, where he poses three critical questions for humanity's survival. The concise answers provide clear guidance, surpassing any previous survival blueprints. This captivating work distills the wisdom of a ninety-year-old genius, offering a rich reward for any open-minded reader.