Sam Parr

Sam Parr's Anti-MBA Learning Machine

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Learning Plan: JFK assassination

Alright, let's dive into the JFK assassination with the ANTI-MBA method. Think of this as a crash course in understanding one of history's most infamous events.

1. Breaking it Down in a Nutshell

Imagine the JFK assassination as a giant jigsaw puzzle. You've got Lee Harvey Oswald, the lone gunman, but also a web of government agencies, the Mafia, and the Soviets. It's like a real-life "Clue" game. Here's a simplified explanation: Lee Harvey Oswald shot Kennedy from a building in Dallas, but many people believe there were other conspirators involved, making it a complex mystery.

2. Core Mental Models

  1. The Butterfly Effect: Small actions can lead to massive outcomes. Oswald's single bullet changed history.
  2. The Theory of Constraints: Understanding that the assassination was influenced by many factors, not just one event.
  3. Confirmation Bias: Be careful not to believe what you want to see—look at all the evidence, not just what confirms your beliefs.
  4. Occam's Razor: The simplest explanation might be the best, but in this case, it's not that simple.
  5. The Pareto Principle: 20% of the facts might explain 80% of the story.

3. Must-Know Concepts

  1. Lee Harvey Oswald: The primary suspect who fired the fatal shot.
  2. The Magic Bullet: The controversial theory that one bullet caused multiple non-fatal injuries.
  3. The Warren Commission: The official investigation that concluded Oswald acted alone.
  4. The Grassy Knoll: A popular conspiracy theory suggesting a second gunman.
  5. The Zapruder Film: The most significant visual evidence of the assassination.

4. High-Impact Resources

  1. "The Warren Commission Report":

    • Why it's awesome: This is the official government investigation into the assassination.
    • What it covers: The commission's findings on Oswald's actions and the events surrounding the assassination.

  2. "JFK" by Oliver Stone:

    • Why it's awesome: A film that dramatizes the assassination and its aftermath, highlighting various conspiracy theories.
    • What it covers: The film explores multiple theories and perspectives, making it a comprehensive overview.

  3. "Case Closed: Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK" by Gerald Posner:

    • Why it's awesome: A detailed, evidence-driven book that argues against conspiracy theories.
    • What it covers: An in-depth look at Oswald's life and the events leading up to the assassination, supporting the lone gunman theory.

5. Get-Your-Hands-Dirty Tasks

  1. Watch the Zapruder Film: Understand the visual evidence that's central to the story.
  2. Read Oswald's Diary: Gain insight into his mindset and motives.
  3. Visit Dealey Plaza: Experience the location firsthand to better understand the logistics of the event.

6. The Ultimate Test

Project: Create a Timeline: Outline the events from Kennedy's arrival in Dallas to the aftermath of his assassination. Include key figures, locations, and actions. This will help you integrate all the information into a coherent narrative.

7. Flashcards for Rapid Recall

  1. Question: Who is Lee Harvey Oswald? Answer: The primary suspect who fired the fatal shot that killed JFK.

  2. Question: What is the Warren Commission? Answer: The official government investigation into the JFK assassination.

  3. Question: What is the Magic Bullet? Answer: The controversial theory that one bullet caused multiple non-fatal injuries in JFK and Texas Governor John Connally.

  4. Question: What is the Grassy Knoll? Answer: A popular conspiracy theory suggesting a second gunman was present on the grassy knoll in Dealey Plaza.

  5. Question: What is the Zapruder Film? Answer: The most significant visual evidence of the assassination, captured by Abraham Zapruder.

8. Common Pitfalls

  1. Conspiracy Overload: Avoid getting lost in too many theories—focus on the most credible evidence.
  2. Confirmation Bias: Don't just read what confirms your beliefs—seek out diverse perspectives.
  3. Overemphasis on Minor Details: Focus on the big picture rather than getting bogged down in minor details.

There you have it—a no-BS, Pareto principle-inspired learning plan to master the JFK assassination.

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