War Made New: Technology, Warfare, and the Course of History: 1500 to Today
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Not just history, but analysis and insight
  • War Made New
  • Don't Bother With This Recycled NeoCon Drivel
  • enjoyable, informatiive read
  • RMA for the masses
War Made New: Technology, Warfare, and the Course of History: 1500 to Today
Max Boot
Manufacturer: Gotham
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Military | History | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | World | History | Subjects | Books
History of TechnologyHistory of Technology | Technology | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. The War of the World: Twentieth-Century Conflict and the Descent of the West The War of the World: Twentieth-Century Conflict and the Descent of the West
  2. Dangerous Nation Dangerous Nation
  3. The Utility of Force: The Art of War in the Modern World The Utility of Force: The Art of War in the Modern World
  4. The Savage Wars of Peace: Small Wars and the Rise of American Power The Savage Wars of Peace: Small Wars and the Rise of American Power
  5. Triumph Forsaken: The Vietnam War, 1954-1965 Triumph Forsaken: The Vietnam War, 1954-1965

ASIN: 1592402224

Book Description

A monumental, groundbreaking work of history that shows how technological and strategic revolutions have transformed the battlefield—from the Spanish Armada to the War on Terror— and how mastery of these innovations has shaped the rise and fall of nations and empires

In War Made New, acclaimed author Max Boot explores how innovations in warfare mark crucial turning points in modern history, influencing events well beyond the realm of combat. Combining gripping narrative history with wide-ranging analysis, Boot focuses on four “revolutions” in military affairs and describes key battles from each period to explain how inventions ranging from gunpowder to GPS-guided air-strikes have remade the field of battle— and shaped the rise and fall of empires.

Bringing to life battles from the defeat of the Spanish Armada to WellingtonÂ's victory at Assaye, War Made New analyzes the Gunpowder Revolution and explains warfareÂ's evolution from ritualistic, drawn-out engagements to much deadlier events, precipitating the rise of the modern nation state. He next explores the triumph of steel and steam during the Industrial Revolution, including the British triumph at Omdurman and the climax of the Russo-Japanese war at Tsushima, showing how it powered the spread of European colonial empires. Moving into the twentieth century and the Second Industrial Revolution, Boot examines three critical clashes of World War II—the German armyÂ's blitzkrieg, Pearl Harbor, and the firebombing of Tokyo—to illustrate how new technology such as the tank, radio, and airplane ushered in terrifying new forms of warfare that aided the rise of highly centralized, and even totalitarian, world powers. Finally, in his section on the Information Revolution, Boot focuses on the Gulf War, the invasion of Afghanistan, and the Iraq war, arguing that even as cutting-edge technologies such as stealth aircraft have made America the greatest military power in world history, advanced communications systems have allowed decentralized, “irregular” forces to become an increasingly significant threat to Western power. BACKCOVER: Advance Praise for War Made New
“Max Boot traces the impact of military revolutions on the course of politics and history over the past 500 years. In doing so, he shows that changes in military technology are limited not to warfighting alone, but play a decisive role in shaping our world. Sweeping and erudite, while entirely accessible to the lay reader, this work is key for anyone interested in where military revolutions have taken us—and where they might lead in the future.”
—U.S. Senator John McCain

“While much has been in written in recent years about the so-called Â`Revolution in Military Affairs,Â' Max Boot is the first scholar to place it within the broad sweep of history, and in the context of the rise of the West in world affairs since 1500. In so doing, he not only tells a remarkable tale, but he compels us all, even those obsessed solely with contemporary military affairs, to ask the right questions and to distinguish what is truly new and revolutionary from what is merely ephemeral. He has rendered a valuable service, and given us a fascinating read at the same time, so we are doubly in his debt.”
—Paul Kennedy, Professor of History at Yale University and author of The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers

“War Made New is impressive in scope. What is equally impressive is its unique interpretation of the causal relationship between technology, warfare and the contemporary social milieu. This is a superb thinking person's book which scrutinizes conventional historical wisdom through a new lens.”
—Lt. Gen. Bernard E. Trainor, USMC (ret.), co-author of Cobra II: The Inside Story of the Invasion and Occupation of Iraq

“Max Boot's book takes hundred of years of tactical battle history and reduces it to an incisive narrative of how war has changed. By providing such a coherent view of the past, he has pointed us toward the future. What is doubly impressive is how he draws surprising, fresh lessons from wars we thought we knew so much about but in fact didn't.”
—Robert D. Kaplan, author of Imperial Grunts

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Not just history, but analysis and insight.......2007-09-03

Max manages to well capture the balance between seeing the forest at the same time as the trees. Further, by extrapolation, he offers insight as to what the forest will look like in the future. I thought the book was excellent, and should be good reading for any military officer. I am a retired military officer, and have seen all the changes from the middle of the Cold War to Gulf War II. It's a completely different ball game, and Max covers it well. {To the detractors; all books have factual errors. Look to the forest, not the trees, or you miss the point of the book.)

5 out of 5 stars War Made New.......2007-05-26

Absolutely excellent. Completely objective presentation. Fabulous survey of how technological and tactical changes affected western history.

1 out of 5 stars Don't Bother With This Recycled NeoCon Drivel.......2007-05-08

[Update: If you are thinking about buying this book, PLEASE CONTACT ME!!!!

As a courtesy, I copied Boot on a letter to the LA Times that pointed out a series of factual errors and inconsistencies in a May 31, 2007 column he wrote about achieving "Victory" in Iraq by firing purportedly "aged" US Army Generals. (Boot's underlying premise is that there is nothing wrong with the NeoCon policies that put our troops in harm's way without enough personnel, equipment or support -- it's those "old fud" Generals who are to blame!

(I'm not making this up! That actually is Boot's theory.)

Boot responded like the Proverbial Scalded Cat, and in classic NeoCon style, e.g., claiming not to have made any mistakes; claiming that pointing out his glaring factual errors was an "ad hominem attack"; and generally displaying all of the NeoCon hubris that is getting US military personnel killed and wounded every day in Iraq.

It would be hysterically funny were it not for the fact that most people can't see through the tactics that Boot and the other NeoCons use -- including, most prominently, ignoring demonstrable facts that don't "fit" the ideological theories they are pushing.

Really, before you buy this drivel, email me and I'll send you a copy of Boot's emails. They will give you a taste of his "reasoning" and disregard for the truth.]

In my view, Max Boot is an example of the kind of NeoCon thinking that has gotten us into this generation's quamire. Boot is, basically, a liberal arts major with no military experience, and without the insights that such experience might bring.

In "War Made New," Boot "re-cycles" (a politer word than "steals") ideas have been around for years, and which have been expressed more clearly by a number of other military intellectuals and historians. Further, Boot repeatedly gets minor facts wrong, e.g., he claims that the WWII-era Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane were both "all-metal" fighters. (The Spitfire was; the Hurricane wasn't -- which is obvious even from pictures of the latter if you know what you are talking about.) These small discrepancies add up, and you ultimately realize that Boot is merely repeating the thoughts of others.

Boot's final/main contention, that there has been a major shift to "Information Warfare," is not borne out by the "facts on ground" in Iraq, and has never been tested in combat. The US military's new smart bomb/high technology theory of warfare has never been used against an opponent with the ability and resources to counter/exploit the obvious weak points in such systems.

To give but one example, which Boot doesn't have the knowledge or experience to discuss: Our JDAMS smart bombs work using GPS signals for guidance. Question: What happens if our opponent has the capability to jam GPS signals, or knock out the GPS satellites (a technology that China is working on)? Answer: The US is left with a pile of "dumb" bombs, and a force structure that is too small to use them. Result: We lose, despite all of our Gee Whiz weaponry.

Let's face it: NeoCons like Boot work for the military-industrial complex that sells these very expensive Wonder Weapons. He has about as much intellectual credibility as, say, Douglas Feith and Paul Wolfowitz. So save your money, and read authors who know what they are talking about.

Neil

[P.S. In candor, Boot pointed out that I originally had "Feith" as "Fife." I thanked him for pointing this error, but admitted that I had trouble telling the "NeoCon Intellectuals" apart, given that they all used the same "reasoning," e.g., "Cut The Facts To Fit The Theory."

Onward, to Victory! NEOCON INTELLECTUALS TO THE FRONT!]

5 out of 5 stars enjoyable, informatiive read.......2007-05-01

I must say, I found this book interesting. I am not a military expert, but I believe his basic premises are correct. This is a journey through the effects of technological advances in warfare and the corresponding effects on society. No section is so long that it becomes boring. I found the whole thing engrossing and hard to put down. I recommend it!

5 out of 5 stars RMA for the masses.......2007-04-24

A decade ago, the defense policy community was a buzz about an emerging "Revolution in Military Affairs" (RMA) - a discontinuous change in the nature of warfare generated by the information revolution whose potential was so clearly demonstrated by the overwhelming advantage that precision guided munitions and operational awareness conferred to US forces in the Gulf War of 1991.

Today, the increasingly low-tech, irregular nature of the current Global War on Terror and, more recently, the frustrating experience of counterinsurgency in Iraq, have seemingly diminished the importance of the RMA and discredited its most vocal proponents. This is unfair and unfortunate as the notion of periodic, major transformational change in military technology and operational capabilities is certainly sound. Moreover, it is a concept that anyone serious about military history or international affairs ought to be familiar with and consider seriously. There is no better introduction to the topic than "War Made New: Technology, Warfare, and the Course of History, 1500 to Today" by Max Boot.

There are several reasons to recommend "War Made New." To begin with, author Max Boot is a superb talent and, in many ways, was the ideal person to write the first general overview of the RMA concept and a sampling of the many historical case studies that support the theory. As a long-time lead defense reporter for The Wall Street Journal, Boot possesses a sophisticated understanding of current defense policy and national security strategy. Better yet, he writes with the same engaging and lucid style of other defense journalists that have written best-selling full-length books, such as David Halberstam, Tom Ricks, and Neil Sheehan. Prior to "War Made New," the RMA had been a subject only written about by academics and policy wonks. This book should take the RMA and the classic RMA case studies to a mainstream audience.

The book is broken up into five parts. The first three parts review distinct RMAs from the past half-millennium. In "The Gunpowder Revolution" Boot covers the dramatic increase in the destructive capacity of gunpowder weapons that emerged in the late 15th century, the tactical changes developed by the Dutch and perfected by Gustavus Adolphus during the Thirty Years' War to maximize the rate of fire and overall impact of hand-held and mobile artillery firepower, and the parallel creation and stunning growth of standing professional armies throughout Europe during the period that led to the first stage of western imperialism in the 18th century. The author uses the examples of the British defeat of the Spanish Armada (1588), two major battles of the Thirty Years War (1631-32), and a less familiar episode in British India (1803) to illustrate how and why technological, doctrinal, and organizational change had profound impact not just on the course of a battle, but the outcome of war, the development of societies, and the fate of history.

The second part addresses "The First Industrial Revolution" where Boot covers engagements as diverse in time and place as the battles of Koniggratz in the Franco-Prussian War (1866), Omdurman in modern-day Sudan between the British and the native Mahdi Army (1898), and the shocking Japanese naval victory over the imperial Russian fleet at Tsushima (1905). The period between 1850 and 1914 is generally seen as the "railroad, rifle, and telegraph" RMA and Boot generally adheres to that thesis, although he stresses that the advantages conferred by early industrial technology were by no means the sole property of Western European states, a message that applies to any technological revolution that spawns an RMA.

The final historical part covers "The Second Industrial Revolution" and addresses the dramatic and non-linear changes that occurred during the interwar period in land warfare with the advent of armored warfare, at sea with the ascendancy of aircraft carriers as the new capital ship of fleet engagements, and in the air with advent of strategic bombing. The case studies that Boot writes here on the German invasion of France (1940), the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor (1941), and the US air campaign against Tokyo (1945) have long been the staple of modern RMA theory.

These first three parts account for nearly three-quarters of the book. Each case study is crisply written and makes a compelling point. That said, Boot offers no radical reinterpretations of what an RMA is or in anyway fundamentally challenges the conventional wisdom that developed amongst RMA proponents during the 1990s. Many of the case studies he provides have been written about extensively before and make essentially the same arguments. Boot's main value added is the fluidity of his prose and how he ties five centuries of history into one coherent and convincing argument.

The final two parts of the book covers the present and future. The fourth part addresses "The Information Revolution" and, unlike the first three Revolutions, is entirely focused on one nation - the US victory in the First Gulf War (1991), the US invasion of Afghanistan (2002), and the US invasion of Iraq (2003). Here, Boot focuses on the conventional aspects of each engagement where US firepower and advanced technology played a decisive role in defeating enemy forces. He concedes that much of the advantages of information age weaponry has little relevance to the messy, day-to-day conduct of counter-insurgency, but spends little time pondering if and how the information RMA has any relevance to current low intensity operations around the world.

The final part offers an overview of "Revolutions to Come" and highlights the military potential of cyberwarfare, nanotechnology, robotics, and the military use of space. This section reads like grist for a science fiction book and should prompt analysts to reflect on how future technology may impact the conduct of military operations decades from now.

Despite the broad historical and technological sweep of Boot's case studies, he consistently stresses five points. First, despite the focus on technology in the subtitle and the role new technology plays in every chapter, Boot stresses that technology alone does not and cannot make an RMA. True discontinuous change is driven by the combination of new technology with new tactics and organization, thoughtful leadership, and perhaps most importantly, an efficient and effective centralized bureaucracy able to nurture and promote innovation. Second, Boot cautions that nations ignore RMAs at their peril. Every major city-state or nation-state that failed to embrace and support new military technology, doctrine, and methods have seen their relative position in the international balance of powers significantly diminished. Third, mastery of an RMA may convey distinct battlefield advantages, but ultimate victory or defeat hinges on wise political decisions and diplomacy. Fourth, the military advantages to a nation in excelling in an RMA are enormous, but history has demonstrated that it is very difficult to maintain a lead for long. Competent and resourceful competitors will learn and adapt, and are quite likely to take fuller advantage of more recent developments in technology and operations. Finally, Boot notes that the pace of innovation is speeding up. In the past, an RMA could take several centuries to completely unfold. Today, it is likely to happen in several decades.

In sum, military transformation and the RMA is a concept informed readers of history and current events ought to be well acquainted with. There are certainly many divergent, but credible and thoughtful opinions on the matter. "War Made New" is no doubt sympathetic to the RMA argument and clearly sees former secretary of defense Rumfeld's military transformation push as the correct and necessary path for present-day policymakers to pursue. Whether today's intelligence analysts and operators accept all, part, or none of the RMA concept is not nearly as important as more fully understanding the theory, the many historical examples that purport to support it, and how and why it may impact contemporary or future military operations. There is no better place to start than Max Boot's "War Made New."
History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Calculations are only as good as your numbers
  • Pants on fire?
  • Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed.
  • Very Interesting
  • History as Science Fiction
History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Anatoly Fomenko
Manufacturer: Mithec
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

ChineseChinese | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
IrishIrish | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
JapaneseJapanese | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
WomenWomen | Specific Groups | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Augustine, SaintAugustine, Saint | ( A ) | People, A-Z | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Doctors & MedicineDoctors & Medicine | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Lawyers & CriminalsLawyers & Criminals | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Love, Sex & MarriageLove, Sex & Marriage | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
Assyria, Babylonia & SumerAssyria, Babylonia & Sumer | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
Early CivilizationEarly Civilization | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books
HistoriographyHistoriography | Historical Study | History | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | World | History | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Asian American | United States | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Asian AmericanAsian American | Poetry | United States | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
FrenchFrench | Erotica | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
VictorianVictorian | Erotica | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
EpicEpic | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
GermanGerman | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
RussianRussian | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
SpanishSpanish | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
ChineseChinese | Classics | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Conspiracy TheoriesConspiracy Theories | Current Events | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
War on DrugsWar on Drugs | Crime & Criminals | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
English (All)English (All) | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
ArabicArabic | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
ArmenianArmenian | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
CzechCzech | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
GreekGreek | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
HungarianHungarian | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
JapaneseJapanese | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
KoreanKorean | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
NorwegianNorwegian | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
Persian & FarsiPersian & Farsi | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
PolishPolish | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
PortuguesePortuguese | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
RomanianRomanian | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
RussianRussian | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
SwedishSwedish | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
TurkishTurkish | Foreign Language | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
ScienceScience | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
Online ResearchOnline Research | Genealogy | Reference | Subjects | Books
Native AmericanNative American | Earth-Based Religions | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | History & Philosophy | Science | Subjects | Books
History of ScienceHistory of Science | History & Philosophy | Science | Subjects | Books
Magic & WizardsMagic & Wizards | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Sailor MoonSailor Moon | Popular Characters | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
PilatesPilates | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
HistoryHistory | Fashion | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. History: Fiction or Science? Chronology 2 (Chronology) History: Fiction or Science? Chronology 2 (Chronology)
  2. History: Fiction or Science? Astronomical methods as applied to chronology. Ptolemy's Almagest. Chronology III History: Fiction or Science? Astronomical methods as applied to chronology. Ptolemy's Almagest. Chronology III
  3. Discovering the Mysteries of Ancient America: Lost History And Legends, Unearthed And Explored Discovering the Mysteries of Ancient America: Lost History And Legends, Unearthed And Explored
  4. Before the Pharaohs: Egypt's Mysterious Prehistory Before the Pharaohs: Egypt's Mysterious Prehistory
  5. They Cast No Shadows: A Collection of Essays on the Illuminati, Revisionist History, and Suppressed Technologies They Cast No Shadows: A Collection of Essays on the Illuminati, Revisionist History, and Suppressed Technologies

ASIN: 2913621058

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

5 out of 5 stars Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

5 out of 5 stars Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

5 out of 5 stars Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

4 out of 5 stars History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.
Literature for Today's Young Adults (7th Edition)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Useful for Middle/ High School Librarians
  • An Excellent Resource
  • Excellent Resource for anyone interested in YA Lit
  • A very good resource.
  • Literature for Today's Young Adults
Literature for Today's Young Adults (7th Edition)
Kenneth L. Donelson , and Alleen Pace Nilsen
Manufacturer: Allyn & Bacon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | History & Criticism | United States | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | Classics | Comic | Contemporary | Literary
GeneralGeneral | Education | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
High SchoolHigh School | Education | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
ReadingReading | Education | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
Children's Literature GuidesChildren's Literature Guides | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
High SchoolHigh School | By Level | Education | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Education | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Children's BooksChildren's Books | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Literature & FictionLiterature & Fiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
NonfictionNonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
ProfessionalProfessional | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Literature-Based Reading Activities (4th Edition) Literature-Based Reading Activities (4th Edition)
  2. Through the Eyes of a Child: An Introduction to Children's Literature (7th Edition) Through the Eyes of a Child: An Introduction to Children's Literature (7th Edition)
  3. Relevant Linguistics, Second Edition, Revised and Expanded: An Introduction to the Structure and Use of English for Teachers (Center for the Study of Language and Information - Lecture Notes) Relevant Linguistics, Second Edition, Revised and Expanded: An Introduction to the Structure and Use of English for Teachers (Center for the Study of Language and Information - Lecture Notes)
  4. An Experiment in Criticism (Canto) An Experiment in Criticism (Canto)
  5. Understanding Reading Problems: Assessment and Instruction (7th Edition) Understanding Reading Problems: Assessment and Instruction (7th Edition)

ASIN: 0205410359

Book Description

Renowned authors Alleen Nilsen and Ken Donelson offer a comprehensive, reader-friendly introduction to young adult literature framed within a rich literary, historical, and social context. It also provides teachers with criteria for evaluating books of all genres, from poetry and nonfiction to mysteries, science fiction, and horror. Coverage of timely issues, such as pop culture and mass media, helps teachers connect with students' lives outside the classroom. Young adult literature framed within a rich literary, historical, and social context. It also provides teachers with criteria for evaluating books of all genres, from poetry and nonfiction to mysteries, science fiction, and horror. Coverage of timely issues, such as pop culture and mass media, helps teachers connect with students' lives outside the classroom. Young Adult Literature.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Useful for Middle/ High School Librarians.......2007-09-20

I bought this book for a class in selecting YA literature. The book gives practical information but, some of the websites mentioned are no longer available.

4 out of 5 stars An Excellent Resource.......2006-07-01

This is one textbook I actually enjoy reading! If you are interested in Young Adult literature, either from an educator's or a parental perspective, this book is a great place to learn more. Of course, being a textbook, there is a section on the history of the genre, but it's actually interesting. But the best feature of this book is the the Focus Boxes which list current titles with brief summaries as examples of each format and genre. Also useful is a chronological list of award-winning books which appears near the beginning of the book. This is one text I plan to keep, then replace with newer editions as they are published.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Resource for anyone interested in YA Lit.......2006-01-30

This textbook type book is an easy read, full of information regarding young adult characteristics in appealing writings, the growth and development of young adult literature and excellent listings, bibliographies and related web sites. Anyone working with young adults and literature will find this book a treasure.

5 out of 5 stars A very good resource........2002-07-25

Literature for Today's Young Adults, by Aleen Pace Nilsen and Kenneth L. Donelson, Sixth Edition. I purchased this book for a class in adolescent literature, and have found to be the book very good and very thorough. The book includes many chapters about modern adolescent literature and their various controversies. Besides being an interesting book, I found it very thorough because it includes varied points of view, and includes many articles written by the authors themselves who write novels for young adults.

4 out of 5 stars Literature for Today's Young Adults.......2002-07-10

Having graduated from high school in 1979, I found my insights into teen literature to be prehistoric at best. As a "utility classroom teacher," I have to keep up with a variety of subjects. This book is a great help to anyone who needs to get a grasp of Young Adult literature, an important topic.
In an age when teens face, more than ever, the difficult issues the world places at their door, (drug and alcohol usage, sexuality, health and family conflict)any teacher entering the reading classroom should be familiar with literature that is current, educational and helpful. This volume provides insight into current authors and trends in Young Adult literature, as well as reviewing "old standards" and interviewing authors. It is an extremely helpful book for anyone who must not only educate but also provide guidance.
Will the Real Heretics Please Stand Up: A New Look at Today's Evangelical Church in the Light of Early Christianity
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Good start, poor finish. Bercot ultimately gets it wrong.
  • Some wonderful insights to early Christianity
  • Perhaps one of the most important books you'll ever read
  • Eye Opening, a Real Wake Up Call
  • Church history in a nutshell -- and what to do about it!
Will the Real Heretics Please Stand Up: A New Look at Today's Evangelical Church in the Light of Early Christianity
David W. Bercot
Manufacturer: Scroll Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Church History | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Theology | Religious Studies | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
GeneralGeneral | Church History | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
GeneralGeneral | Theology | Religious Studies | Religion & Spirituality | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
All 4-for-3 DealsAll 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
  1. A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs
  2. The Kingdom that Turned the World Upside Down The Kingdom that Turned the World Upside Down
  3. Heresies: Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church Heresies: Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church
  4. Turning Points,: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity Turning Points,: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity
  5. The One Who Knows God The One Who Knows God

ASIN: 0924722002

Book Description

A challenging look at today's evangelical church in the light of the early Christians.

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Good start, poor finish. Bercot ultimately gets it wrong........2007-07-03

Warning: This book is full of opinion, conjecture, and false conclusions that Bercot provides no basis for. He has slipped many of them in where they are most likely to go unnoticed and taken for truth. Readers beware.

5 out of 5 stars Some wonderful insights to early Christianity.......2007-04-08

This book, which was brilliantly written by one Mr. Becot, was good at showing some of the flaws and differences that modern evangelicalism holds with early Christianity. It demonstrated how there are many doctrinal and sacramental practices that have been omitted or changed in modern evangelicalism that where once practiced by the first Christians. One example would be the ordinance of baptism, which Mr. Bercot shows was an essential doctrine of first and second century Christianity. And (me being LDS and believing in the apostasy of the true church of Christ) I particularly agreed with Mr. Bercot's view that the church was corrupted by the time of the time of Constantine. So this was a good book and a very interesting read on early Christianity compared to modern evangelicalism.

5 out of 5 stars Perhaps one of the most important books you'll ever read.......2007-01-31

I consider this book seminal in both its topics and scope. If you are a Christian, (or even if you have no interest in church history,) "Will The Real Heretics Please Stand Up" will challenge you as perhaps no other can or will.

The early Christian writers, (sometimes referred to as "fathers,") left a body of writings that have been preserved to this day, (enough to fill a 10 volume set.) Though not inspired by God, (as were the Apostles who wrote the New Testament,) their writings do reflect what the early church believed and practiced for almost 300 years, (until the church was severely compromised by an unholy union with the Roman state under Emperor Constantine's overtures.)

When personally challenged to read these writings, David Bercot initially rejected them; discovering that their beliefs were so antiquated and out of step with contemporary beliefs. Yet, as he begin reading them again, he came to the overwhelming conclusion that what the church believes today is *drastically* different from the beliefs of the early Christians.

* Do you believe that a Christian is saved by faith alone, apart from good works? Then you believe a doctrine rejected as heresy by the early church.
* Do you believe a Christian has no choice in his salvation, but is saved solely by the choice of God? The early church understood every person has a free will and is held accountable by God according to the choices made from it. (The pagans of the day were predestinationalists, believing all of life was controlled by "fate.")
* Do believe a Christian can fight and kill in a war, and still go to heaven? The early Christians knew that those who lived by the sword would be killed by the sword, and therefore strove to live meek and harmless lives; preferring to suffer death at the hands of unbelievers rather than fight to save their lives, (like their Master did before them.)

Included in this book is a very simple and understandable description of exactly where and how the church came to disown these original teachings, and why it currently believes and practices something entirely different today. Bercot's style is remarkable in its persuasion and meekness; refraining from attacking or belittling those who take the opposing view. (However, his arguments are unanswerable, due to their unavoidable logic and evidentiary conclusions.)

* If you are a Calvinist, (or of that persuasion,) you will not like this book.
* If you are a modern Evangelical, and believe in "Once Saved, Always Saved," you will not like this book.
* If you are participant or supporter of any war or military action, you will be highly offended by this book.

In short, if you are a denier of the literal words and teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ, you are utterly out-of-fellowship with the Believers of the first and second centuries, for they strove to follow Jesus as literally and as earnestly as they could. (And you would be cast out of their churches as a first-class heretic.)

The church today simply does not believe what Jesus taught. The early church did, and we have their writings as evidence of what they believed and accomplished. Scripture decidedly foretells of an end-times apostasy, or "great falling away." When you compare the beliefs of the early church with what is believed and practiced today, you can clearly see that we are most decidedly in the very center of this prophecy. (And its only going to get worse.)

"Flee from the wrath to come!" It was preached 2,000 years ago, and it needs to be preached today. Only the target is YOU, dear Christian, and not some poor pagan unbeliever. (For it will be better for him in the day of judgment than for you, if you refuse to walk in *all* the commands of the Lord Jesus.)

5 out of 5 stars Eye Opening, a Real Wake Up Call.......2007-01-10

You may not care about what the churches the apostles started were like, or you may think that no one knows what they're like. This book will change your mind. This is a well-researched book, very accurate and fair to the early church writings. I've read everything the 2nd century church wrote as a result of the motivation provided by this book, and he spoke truly about what they said.

If you want to continue on the way you have been, don't read this book, because it will shake you up. Bercot is a lawyer, and he argues powerfully for his points in this book. I've listened to plenty of people try to answer his arguments, both when I worked with David (in 1992), and since, including a few months of talk shows on the radio in Sacramento, CA. These arguments are compelling and un-answerable.

On top of all this, the book is incredibly well-written. It is easy to understand and completely captivating. Every chapter ends with a carrot on a stick to drag you for or against your will into the next one. Don't start it at night, because you'll be late for work the next day. You will have to finish it.

This book, because it answers so many questions with straightforward answers and puts the whole world of the early church at your fingertips ought to be a top 10 Christian book of all time.

5 out of 5 stars Church history in a nutshell -- and what to do about it!.......2006-06-12

I was first introduced to Bercot by his masterly "Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs" so I all the more readily took a look at this book. The result was that I couldn't put it down and started hunting for what else he had written on the subject.

Bercot knows what he is talking about from his years of study and research into the Patristic writings -- and this shows through in his writings as he weaves the basic principles of Christianity together and compares them with the pitiful evangelical church of today.

If you are one who is serious about your faith, please read this book. You can find out more about David Bercot on his publishing company's web site at scrollpublishing.com.
Right, Wrong, and Risky: A Dictionary of Today's American English Usage
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Who Can Do Without?
  • A must for anyone who writes...anything!
  • Brillant Yet Flawed
Right, Wrong, and Risky: A Dictionary of Today's American English Usage
Mark Davidson
Manufacturer: W. W. Norton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | Classics | Comic | Contemporary | Literary
GeneralGeneral | Criticism & Theory | History & Criticism | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
English (All)English (All) | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
English (American)English (American) | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
Synonyms & AntonymsSynonyms & Antonyms | Dictionaries & Thesauruses | Reference | Subjects | Books
GrammarGrammar | Words & Language | Reference | Subjects | Books
Writing SkillsWriting Skills | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Reference | Subjects | Books
Social HistorySocial History | Historical Study | History | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Common Errors in English Usage Common Errors in English Usage
  2. 100 Words Almost Everyone Confuses and Misuses (The 100 Words) 100 Words Almost Everyone Confuses and Misuses (The 100 Words)
  3. 100 Words Every Word Lover Should Know (100 Words) 100 Words Every Word Lover Should Know (100 Words)
  4. An Incomplete Education: 3,684 Things You Should Have Learned but Probably Didn't An Incomplete Education: 3,684 Things You Should Have Learned but Probably Didn't
  5. The Big Book of Beastly Mispronunciations: The Complete Opinionated Guide for the Careful Speaker The Big Book of Beastly Mispronunciations: The Complete Opinionated Guide for the Careful Speaker

ASIN: 0393061191

Book Description

For anyone challenged by the changes and controversies in the world's most widely used language: Standard American English.

Right, Wrong, and Risky provides simple, direct answers to questions about word choice, spelling, grammar, and punctuation—in straightforward alphabetical order. The answers are supported by thousands of up-to-date published usage examples. And the reader is told not just that particular usages are right or wrong, but why.

In addition, Right, Wrong, and Risky warns the reader about risky words like cleave and suspicious, and the many risky situations in which usage authorities disagree about what is and is not acceptable in Standard American English. For every such quandary, this book provides a risk-free solution.Browsers will learn why we tell stage performers to break a leg, why it's not really an insult to call someone a philistine or even a Neanderthal, and why it's wise never to use the word fortuitous or say the word forte aloud.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Who Can Do Without?.......2007-01-27

I can't think of anyone who uses the spoken or written word who wouldn't be intrigued by this book. Oh, how we misuse our English language with word useage that we are unsure of or mangle. Although not meant as such, I bought this book as a reference gift for my Crossword Puzzle obsessed son. It is amazing the amount of research and scholarship that is invested in this book. Look up the definition of the word "peruse." My guess is you haven't been using it correctly. Welcome to the club.

5 out of 5 stars A must for anyone who writes...anything!.......2006-12-08

If you write letters, books, emails or just quick notes to the kids, you need this book. I have been honing my writing skills for years and found a plethora of information that I can use everyday. This book showed me how far I still have to go.

I'm buying four copies for Christmas gifts, I'm sure they'll be well received.

3 out of 5 stars Brillant Yet Flawed.......2005-12-04

I just bought this book today and was absolutley delighted to see such an up-to-date reference book on American usage. I have been waiting for a comphrensive yet readable book on this subject, and Mr. Davidson's book fills the bill fairly well. The entries are alphabetically arranged, with very entertaining and informative prescriptions on what's right and incorrect. On the more controversial entries he even suggests a "risk-free" alternative to keep the prospective writer/editor out of possible hot water. A nice touch! Most aspects of usage and style are covered. From the usual collection of confusing and misspelled words, to excellent discussions about fused gerunds, redundant phrases, and other matters likely to trip up people who want to write clearly and correctly for their readers. The excellent bibliography is exhasutive and lists all the books that have been published on this topic since the early 90s (and earlier!).

On the negative side, I was very disapppointed that there was no index for the individual entries. This proved to be especially troubling, since not all entries are listed where they should be. For example, in looking up the word "yet", I found it not under the y's, but under the b's with the entry "but, however, nevertheless, nonetheless, still, still and all, or yet?" An index would have been helpful to point me directly to the page on which this item was discussed.

Lastly, I was surprised there was no reference to the recent Cambridge Guide to English Usage (2004) by Pam Peters who is also at Macquarie University. The two books together should answer any usage question for years to come.
World History: Connections to Today
Average customer rating: Not rated
    World History: Connections to Today
    Elisabeth Gaynor Ellis , and Anthony Esler
    Manufacturer: Pearson Prentice Hall
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

    TeensTeens | Subjects | Books | Audiobooks | Authors, A-Z | Biographies & Memoirs | Health, Mind & Body | History & Historical Fiction | Horror | Literature & Fiction | Manga | Mysteries | Reference | Religion & Spirituality | School & Sports | Science & Technology | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Series | Social Issues
    GeneralGeneral | History & Historical Fiction | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | World | History | Subjects | Books
    All TitlesAll Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    Children's BooksChildren's Books | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    TeensTeens | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
    Similar Items:
    1. Elements of Literature: Fourth Course With Readings in World Literature Elements of Literature: Fourth Course With Readings in World Literature
    2. Glencoe Literature © 2002 Course 4, Grade 9 : The Reader's Choice Glencoe Literature © 2002 Course 4, Grade 9 : The Reader's Choice
    3. Modern Biology Modern Biology
    4. Prentice Hall Literature: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes : Platinum Prentice Hall Literature: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes : Platinum
    5. ¡Buen viaje! Level 1, Workbook and Audio Activities Student Edition ¡Buen viaje! Level 1, Workbook and Audio Activities Student Edition

    ASIN: 0130098108
    USA Today: New American Art from the Saatchi Gallery
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      USA Today: New American Art from the Saatchi Gallery
      Meghan Dailey , and Norman Rosenthal
      Manufacturer: Royal Academy of the Arts
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      PopPop | Schools, Periods & Styles | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      Contemporary ArtContemporary Art | Schools, Periods & Styles | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      United StatesUnited States | Regional | History & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      Museum of Contemporary ArtMuseum of Contemporary Art | Exhibition Catalogs | Museums | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Exhibition Catalogs | Museums | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Museums | Museums & Collections | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. New German Painting New German Painting
      2. Ice Cream: Contemporary Art in Culture Ice Cream: Contemporary Art in Culture
      3. Daniel Richter Daniel Richter
      4. Peter Doig Peter Doig
      5. Vitamin P: New Perspectives in Painting Vitamin P: New Perspectives in Painting

      ASIN: 1903973961

      Book Description

      This 400-page blockbuster, designed in close consultation with renowned contemporary art collector Charles Saatchi, showcases 250 works—paintings, constructions, sculpture, and photography—by 40 artists from across the U.S.A.

      This is a new generation of American art; most of the works are less than two years old and focus on artistsÂ' views of world events and AmericaÂ's place in global society. Artists profiled include Banks Violette, Kelley Walker, Matthew Monahan, Terence Koh, Christoph Schmidberger, Inka Essenhigh, Dash Snow, Josephine Meckseper and many others. Together, in this stunning volume, they offer an astounding, controversial, and wide-ranging collection.
      Europe: Today and Tomorrow
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • "Is there a European identity that has a future?"
      • An Invitation for a Moral Rebirth
      Europe: Today and Tomorrow
      Pope Benedict XVI
      Manufacturer: Ignatius Press
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

      GeneralGeneral | Europe | History | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Catholicism | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      CatholicCatholic | Church History | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Church & StateChurch & State | Religious Studies | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. Jesus of Nazareth Jesus of Nazareth
      2. The Dialectics of Secularization: On Reason and Religion The Dialectics of Secularization: On Reason and Religion
      3. On Conscience (Bioethics & Culture) On Conscience (Bioethics & Culture)
      4. Christianity and the Crisis of Cultures Christianity and the Crisis of Cultures
      5. Without Roots: The West, Relativism, Christianity, Islam Without Roots: The West, Relativism, Christianity, Islam

      ASIN: 1586171348

      Book Description

      Written in late 2004 shortly before his election as Pope Benedict XVI, Ratzinger raises serious questions about the issues facing Europe amidst the new European Union and forming of a European Constitution.

      Some of the main issues he raises include: How did Europe originate and what are its boundaries? Who has the right to call himself European and be admitted into the new Europe? What about the spiritual roots of Europe and the moral foundation she is founded on?

      Ratzinger sees the lack of focus on these fundamental questions in the forming of a new Europe as a very serious dilemma for the future of Europe, and the world. The ties that Europe has to the USA, and the rest of the world make these questions and reflections by the current Pontiff of critical importance for facing the future together.

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars "Is there a European identity that has a future?".......2007-08-01

      "Is there a European identity that has a future?" "Europe...is a cultural and historical concept," but many, it seems, appear to think otherwise. But "There is no such thing as an ahistorical State based on abstract reason.""Europe, precisely in this hour of its greatest success seems to have become hallowed out, paralyzed in a certain sense by a crisis of its circulatory system, a crisis that endangers its life, which depends, so to speak, on transplants, which then, however, cannot help undermining its identity." "Meanwhile, the manipulation of man by man is proceeding apace with even greater impudence. The visions of Huxley are definitely becoming a reality: the human being must be no longer begotten irrationally but rather produced rationally. But man as a product is at the disposal of man. The imperfect specimens are discarded, so as to develop the perfect man by way of planning and production." and "more and more often the principle of behavior is affirmed that states that it is permissible for man to do everything he is capable of doing."

      "In a world that is understood in an evolutionary way, it is also self-evident that there cannot be any absolute values, things that are always bad or things that are always good; instead the weighing of goods is the only way to discern moral norms." "Whereas currently the once legendary success of the word revolution is on the decline, definite and far-reaching reforms are being demanded and promised all the more. One would have to conclude, however, that in modern society a deep sense of dissatisfaction predominates, and this precisely in places where well-being and freedom have reached a level heretofore unknown. The world is perceived as hard to endure; it must improve, and bringing this about seems to be the task of politics." In short, "Suffering must disappear; life must be nothing but pleasant." "Learning to live," however, Pope Benedict argues, "also means learning to suffer." Heaven is not possible on Earth, in other words. "A definitively well-run society would presuppose the end of freedom." And from freedom everything else comes. This is the subject of parts 3 & 4 of this albeit very short work: Responsibility for the Peace and Pope Benedict's reflections on "The occasion of the 60th anniversary of the landing of the Allied Forces in France (speeches he made during events commemorating such). "The process of reconciliation that has taken place in Europe, thanks in particular to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, has changed the course of world history; this process has its origins in the Christian spirit." He instructs us that such a progression ought be respected and built upon; not cast aside. After all, Pope Benedict asks "...has the world really become brighter, freer, happier after setting God aside?"

      In Pope Benedict's view, one of the primary reasons Islamists are hostile to the West is their perception of the West as Godless. Hence Pope Benedict's admonition that by being more religious/more respectful of our own religious heritage perhaps the West and Islamic states can move somewhat closer to each other; that we in the Judeo-Christian West may be able to moderate aspects of the Muslim faith by standing firm for Freedom. Abandoning Europe's faith, in contradistinction, is akin, in effect, to conceding the moral high ground to an otherwise respectable faith, but one which has not progressed much in the way of individual and women's rights; which does not respect individual freedom, nor a distinction between secular politics and faith. (07Jul) God Bless

      5 out of 5 stars An Invitation for a Moral Rebirth.......2007-05-30

      Ratzinger is at his finest- not writing above our heads as with some theological works, but as a teacher warning us about the inevitable consequences of our behavior.

      A gentler version of The Cube & The Cathedral by Weigel, Ratzinger explains how the refusal of Europeans to accept their Christian roots is contributing to a declining culture. The text examines models of government, specifically the two totalitarian regimes of the previous century and insists that we allow the state to provide moral guidelines once again.

      Finally, a good argument against the acceptance of Turkey into the EU is explained, drawing on the ancient history of this continent we call Europe today and how Christianity forged those boundaries, cultural identities and systems of faith.

      This is a call to return to the moral center; a faith based civilization that was once great but has recently shunned the core that made it so. This is an example of how man's enlightenment and greatness should be accepted as gifts from God and therefore attributed as such.
      American Catholics Today: New Realities of Their Faith and Their Church
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • Statistics Give a Picture
      • Understanding the American Catholic Landscape and Trends
      • A Thorough Look At American Catholic Attitudes
      American Catholics Today: New Realities of Their Faith and Their Church
      William V. D'Antonio
      Manufacturer: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      GeneralGeneral | Catholicism | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Roman CatholicismRoman Catholicism | Catholicism | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. Being Catholic in a Culture of Choice (Michael Glazier Books) Being Catholic in a Culture of Choice (Michael Glazier Books)
      2. Jesus of Nazareth Jesus of Nazareth
      3. Catholicism at the Crossroads: How the Laity Can Save the Church Catholicism at the Crossroads: How the Laity Can Save the Church
      4. The Mission Driven Parish The Mission Driven Parish
      5. The Church in the Making: Lumen Gentium, Christus Dominus, Orientalium Ecclesiarum (Rediscovering Vatican II) The Church in the Making: Lumen Gentium, Christus Dominus, Orientalium Ecclesiarum (Rediscovering Vatican II)

      ASIN: 0742552152

      Book Description

      American Catholics Today presents trends in American Catholic opinion from 1987 to 2005, using four identical surveys. These surveys depict trends in Catholics' views of the sacraments, church authority, church teachings in the area of sex and gender, and strength of Catholic identity. The analysis in this book suggests that the future will see more Catholics making decisions about their own faith and fewer Catholics who are fervently committed to church life.

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars Statistics Give a Picture.......2007-09-14

      D'Ambrosio, et. al., have continued past studies, at six year intervals, of Catholics in the United States. Their chapters are clear, the graphs easy to follow, and the conclusions pretty much extend observations from previous studies. They make a subtle distinction between identity as Catholics and involvement in church, with the latter being a safer predictor of behavior. The studies show Catholics have high agreement on core faith issues (divinity of Jesus, Trinity, Eucharist, etc.), but very scattered agreement/disagreement on the "gender-sexuality" sensitive issues of today. Because book poses questions in pretty much the same format as before, it has limitations. But given the starting point, it's worth looking at.

      5 out of 5 stars Understanding the American Catholic Landscape and Trends.......2007-07-29

      "American Catholics Today" is the fourth study (1987, 1993, & 1999) of the American Catholic Church by authors D'Antonio, Davidson, Hoge, and Gautier. Each study has been designed to examine the faith of the Catholic laity, and their relationship to the Catholic Church. Particular emphasis is given to:

      * Catholic identity
      * Participation in sacraments and devotions
      * The locus of moral authority, especially in relation to human sexuality
      * The laity's views of the Church's social teachings
      * The growing shortage of priests and what to do about it
      * Decision making in the Church

      Respondent's were segmented by ethnicity, gender and generation. Four generational divides were used: those born before 1940, Pre-Vatican II; those between 1941-1960, Vatican II; between 1961-1978; and those born between 1979-1987, Millennials.

      This excellent study will be valuable to those interested in understanding the Catholic Church today - particularly Catholic religious and lay leaders. I have made this book available to participants on our local parish's Pastoral Council and to leaders of the Catholics@Work lay movement. It is imperative, if one wants to work effectively with the laity, to understand the existing landscape (the marketplace). Wishing it to be something else will lead to plans laid waste.

      The take-aways for me include: the generational differences, particularly with the Millennials who are the future of the Church; the source of `conservative' vs. `liberal' and how these terms do not describe various points-of-view within the church. As a result, these terms are misunderstood, miscommunicated, and misused - creating a `political' divide.

      It would be unfair to the authors to describe the findings in great detail. This is a book that must be purchased, read thoroughly, and referred to often.

      5 out of 5 stars A Thorough Look At American Catholic Attitudes.......2007-05-10

      It's not that often that I read a book in one sitting, especially if the book is a collection of surveys and statistics, but that's exactly what happened when I came across AMERICAN CATHOLICS TODAY. The book is based on the answers by 875 people who identify themselves as Catholics. The participants are asked about nearly every question possible pertaining to Catholicism in America from acceptance of Church teachings, living as Catholics in the United States today, beliefs regarding the Sacraments, opinions regarding the sexual abuse crisis, and the role of the laity in the Church today.

      The results of the surveys are not too surprising. In general the survey and results reveal what observers of the American Catholic Church have maintained for years: Catholics in the United States are barely distinguishable from their non Catholic peers, at least on the surface, but a closer look reveals there can be distinctions in nuance. In a number of ways the Church is healthier than some critics would claim, but it also shows the disconnect between the institutional Church and many American Catholics.

      This is the fourth of such surveys, but this volume is significant for some very important reasons. It's the first volume of its kind that has been published since January 2002 when the sexual abuse scandal came to light. It's also the first volume that includes significant data about what it calls "millennial Catholics": those born after the post-Vatican II years. Also demographic groups are changing. Pre-Vatican II Catholics are decreasing and the Vatican II/post Vatican II generations are increasing. There are also anecdotes included in the book about catholic life today that illustrate the results of the survey. The book will be of interest to readers who are interested in Catholic life today, but it will be an important resource for anyone involved in ministry in the Catholic Church. While Church teaching does not bow to popular opinion (as Bishop Gerald Kicanas notes in his introduction), ministry and catechesis does need to consider the reality of Catholic life today to be relevant to people and authentic to the Church's teaching and mission. This volume helps in understanding where American Catholics stand today and more than likely will be a valuable resource for planning in at least the next five to ten years.


      Hooked Rugs Today: Strong Women, Flowers, Animals, Children, Christmas, Miniatures, and More - 2006
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Hooked Rugs Today: Strong Women, Flowers, Animals, Children, Christmas, Miniatures, and More - 2006
        Amy Oxford
        Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        GeneralGeneral | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
        RugsRugs | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
        RugsRugs | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
        GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
        Similar Items:
        1. Hooked Rugs Today 2006: Holidays, Geometrics, People, Animals, Landscapes, Accessories, and More Hooked Rugs Today 2006: Holidays, Geometrics, People, Animals, Landscapes, Accessories, and More
        2. Contemporary Hooked Rugs: Themes and Memories Contemporary Hooked Rugs: Themes and Memories
        3. Hooked on Rugs: Outstanding Contemporary Designs Hooked on Rugs: Outstanding Contemporary Designs
        4. East Coast Rug-Hooking Designs: New Patterns from an Old Tradition East Coast Rug-Hooking Designs: New Patterns from an Old Tradition
        5. Designs for Primitive Rug Hookers (Rug Hooking Magazine's Framework) Designs for Primitive Rug Hookers (Rug Hooking Magazine's Framework)

        ASIN: 0764325787

        Books:

        1. What A Great Idea! Inventions That Changed The World
        2. Why Vietnam Invaded Cambodia: Political Culture and the Causes of War
        3. Windrush
        4. Ysabel
        5. 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus
        6. 1776
        7. 300
        8. A Historical Atlas of the Jewish People: From the Time of the Patriarchs to the Present
        9. A Living Lens: Photographs of Jewish Life from the Pages of the Forward
        10. America Alone: The End of the World as We Know It

        Books Index

        Books Home

        Recommended Books

        1. Decision Support Systems and Intelligent Systems
        2. The Versatile Border Collie
        3. Private: The Erotic Art of Duncan Grant
        4. St Thomas Aquinas Summa Theologica
        5. The Going-To-Bed Book
        6. Thinking in Circles: An Essay on Ring Composition
        7. The Smithsonian Guides to Natural America: The Great Lakes: Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin
        8. The Pivot Generation: Informal Care and Work After Fifty
        9. Solid Gold Success Strategies for Your Business
        10. Rn & Wpl Encyclopedia: Registered Numbers & Wool Products Label Encyclopedia 1998