Are more people reading F. M Alexander's four books

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sraj

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Sep 28, 2025, 5:38:02 AMSep 28
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It's difficult to definitively say if more people are reading F. M. Alexander's four books today, as data on reading trends isn't readily available, but his work remains relevant, with concepts still revolutionary and techniques applicable in a world bombarded with more stimuli. However, his writing's Edwardian style and density make it a challenging read for modern audiences, potentially limiting wider readership despite its ongoing value. 
Challenges to Reading Alexander's Books: 
  • Dense and Convoluted Style: 
    His books are considered difficult to read due to their complex and convoluted Edwardian writing style, which can obscure the importance of his work.
  • Outdated Context: 
    The world Alexander wrote about is historical, and his references are not as easily understood as contemporary material, making it hard for today's readers to make sense of his examples.
  • Historical Distance: 
    Like a Dickens novel compared to a modern one, Alexander's books require more effort for readers accustomed to contemporary styles.
Reasons to Read Alexander's Books Today:
  • Enduring Relevance: 
    The concepts of progressive conscious control and taking personal responsibility remain crucial in the modern world. 
  • Revolutionary Ideas: 
    His work offers a unique approach to addressing habitual behavior and developing a conscious awareness of one's "use" of self, which is still considered revolutionary by many. 
  • Practical Application: 
    Despite their difficulty, his principles of non-reactive choice and conscious control are valuable for anyone seeking to become a healthier and freer individual. 
In summary, while data on current reading numbers is unavailable, the depth and importance of F. M. Alexander's core concepts suggest continued interest, though the challenge of his writing style likely limits its reach to a motivated audience. 
AI responses may include mistakes. 


Keith Bacon

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Oct 28, 2025, 4:48:58 AM (12 days ago) Oct 28
to sraj, AlexTech Mail List
Hi Selvaraj,
I hope you are well. I suspect there are so.many mind/body techniques, so much research into them and so much online that the competition for Alexander is very big.!
This quote from the link below is interesting. Interoceptive signals becoming reliable refers, I think, to  improvement in what Alexander called faulty kinesthesia.
Its the first time Ive seen a mention like this in research. FMA really was ahead of his time!
Regards,
Keith

"As breathing steadies, interoceptive signals become reliable, the nervous system balances, and the mind stabilises"


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