Happy Birthday, Mr. Vaknin: Lessons of a Life Ill-lived
In this lecture, Professor Sam Vaknin reflects on his 63rd birthday and shares an interview he had with Scott Jacobson. He discusses the irrationality of celebrating birthdays and emphasizes the transient and meaningless nature of life. Vaknin also talks about his early life, the lessons he learned in different stages of life, and the decline of his physical and mental capabilities. He advises on career, ambition, and the importance of not compromising in one’s career. Ultimately, he expresses that he looks forward to death as the ultimate respite.