5 hours ago
- Keith Johnstone's book 'Impro' argues that children are naturally creative but are suppressed by Western culture and education, and that improv comedy can unlock a more authentic human life.
- Johnstone's chapter on status describes how all social interactions involve status games, and the key social skill is the ability to deliberately alter one's status between high and low.
- Johnstone connects improvisation to a broader anti-establishment lifestyle, criticizing Western thought and advocating for spontaneity and freedom from societal norms.
- The book's final chapter on 'Masks and Trance' describes inducing trance states in students through hypnosis-adjacent techniques, which critics compare to cult-like behavior.
- Johnstone's methods involved breaking down students' sense of self and responsibility, with the promise of later returning autonomy, raising concerns about guru dynamics and manipulation.
- Despite the cult-like elements, 'Impro' is popular in Silicon Valley because startups often resemble cults, and the book offers insights into status games and molding effective individuals.
- The text advises reading 'Impro' critically, recognizing its useful analysis of power and creativity while being wary of adopting it as a life philosophy or trusting those who push it heavily.