Average customer rating:
- dan has done it again
- Gaunt for the win!
- Book 10
- Liberation from Chaos
- Dan Abnett never fails to satisfy
|
The Armour of Contempt (Gaunt's Ghosts)
Dan Abnett
Manufacturer: Games Workshop
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
War
| Genre Fiction
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
| Books
Adventure
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Science Fiction
| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1844164004 |
Customer Reviews:
dan has done it again.......2007-07-22
i remember reading the first gaunts ghost novel several years ago. since its famed review, the series has developed greatly. the newest book, amour of contemp, isnt the overal greatest book, but it is definetly among the best as the regiment of the tanith first and only is reorganized and shipped back to gereon to liberate it. those who have read, traitor general will love this book, and i cant wait to read the next one.
Gaunt for the win!.......2007-06-01
I love the Gaunt's Ghost series, they are some of my all time favorite sci fi adventures. Dan Abnett takes the somewhat silly 40k universe and humanizes it through solid character development and a wonderful sense of pace and plot.
My only beef with this book was his portrayal of the sillier side of 40k, as it just seems too outlandish compared to his much more realistic characters and battles. It strikes a wrong note, as if there was a World War I style trench battle in the middle of a book about Vietnam era jungle warfare. I hope we don't see any more "accurate" portrayals of the 40k universe in Abnett's wonderful books.
Still, that is a very small part of an otherwise excellent read. You can hardly go wrong with Dan Abnett if you like a solid adventure yarn.
Book 10.......2007-04-22
When Commissar Ibram Gaunt left the planet Gereon, he promised he'd return with help to liberate the Chaos-held world. He expected the son of team member (Criid) to graduate RIP, become a Ghost, and go with them. Instead, Dalin Criid finished RIP (academy) only to be activated and thrown into war as a grunt soldier.
They all end up on Gereon, but in totally different sections. Dalin must fend for himself. Dalin must not only survive the hostile world and the Emperor's enemies, but also his own superior who seems to be very trigger happy (with rifle, gun, and whip) toward his own men!
*** NOT the best installment of the Gaunt's Ghost series. The battle scenes are realistically done and extremely intense. However, once RIP is over, there seemed to be more mundane "filler" pages than anything else. This is still a good read, but wait for the paperback version. ***
Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.
Liberation from Chaos.......2007-04-10
The continuation of the Gaunt's Ghost series continues with the liberation of a planet from Chaos in the Wahammer 40k science fiction universe. What makes this series enjoyable is not only the continuation of existing characters, but the development of new ones with their own unique personalities and experiences.
In this story, Abnett focuses mostly on Kolea's son, Dalin Criid. What makes this book unique is that Abnett is able to further develop the W40K universe is describing Imperial Guard training and life while on the decade long campaign and voyage in starships. Life in the Imperial Guard is further flushed out, similar to life as a soldier in England's Army in the 1700 and 1800's. Where ever the armies marched, there were camp followers. When a soldier commits a crime, there is punishment. When the army goes into combat, it throws everyone straight into battle.
Abnett also describes the differences in battle when serving in an experienced and well organized unit like the Tanith First in comparison to a raw newly formed unit of recruits and punishment details (Criid's unit). The Tanith First fight wisely, the leaders motivate and keep their soldiers alive. The raw unit simply mindlessly sends their soldiers straight into the gauntlet of fire, their survival doesn't matter (similar to a Communist Army human wave attack tactics), only elimination of the enemy.
The nature of chaos and ability to fight resist the nature of evil is also described in the planet's fight against the chaos army occupying the planet. The extreme nature to find ways to fight chaos is also presented in the Inquisition's presence and investigation of the liberated planet.
The action sequence depicting the hunt between predator and prey when a squad of Ghosts is being stalked by a chaos tank is well done. Every character is alive just like in a movie.
Like reading and collecting the hardbound versions of the book, the large font print makes is much easier and enjoyable to read.
Dan Abnett never fails to satisfy.......2007-02-15
This latest installment in the Gaunt's Ghost series is just as good as I've come to expect from Dan Abnett. If you are like me and you have followed the development of each of the signature characters, you will not be disappointed. I look forward to the next installment with just as much anticipation as I did this one. The only regret I have is that I finished too quickly!
Customer Reviews:
The Premier Men's Rights Book. .......2006-09-03
I am intimately, in every sense of the word, familiar with most of the men's rights literature, and I have to say that looking back on all the magnificent, avant-garde (and frankly heroic) publications assaulting radical feminism and political correctness in general, this work by Nathanson and Young was, and is, the finest moment. Spreading Misandry is meticulous in its research and analysis. It is also ambitious and deep in its coverage of popular culture. Wading through the often offensive and boring television shows, articles, commercials, and opinion which comprise an unmistakable misandric bias is not an easy task, but the authors did it and through their own "deconstructions" present the most compelling case imaginable. I'm writing my own work on this subject and I doubt that I can limit myself to 20 endnotes from these pages. This work is high brow, sophisticated, and absolutely magnificent. Nathanson and Young are our elite and I personally thank them for their efforts. Furthermore, I am saddened that their follow up book can only be obtained after a four to six week wait which showcases just how little society is concerned about pervasive misandry. As for me, I just placed a used copy on order and will report back my opinion just in case anyone is hedging on their own purchase.
Ingram's review proves this book hits the nail on the head.......2006-08-15
In his review above under Library Journal, Jeff Ingram proves that he either did not read all of the book, or he did not understand it, but either way he commits two of the errors which the authors specifically raise: the trivializing of misandry, and the justification of it.
Now providing us with a classic example of these, first Ingram trivializes misandry by apparently saying, 'oh well, the media is going to engage in this sort of thing anyway..'; he then justifies misandry by stating 'someone has to be the bad person', implying that it might as well be the man (and it usually is, which Ingram would know if he had read all the pages).
Finally, his notion that this one volume, will somehow 'balance' the massive feminist literature on misogyny, is a joke.
Thank you Mr. Ingram, for inadvertantly endorsing the book!
The Institutionalization of Man-Hating.......2006-01-14
I thought this book was going to be "preaching to the already-converted" since I had been aware of man-hating becoming an all-pervasive feature of American films and TV since the early 90s. But Nathanson and Young gave me a lot more than mere support for what I already believed. I got a much better understanding of the situation on a much deeper level. Their argument is clearly and logically presented. I'll admit that the relatively brief discussions of "Deconstruction" and "Post-Modernism" made me (a non-academic) squirm, but they were important to laying down the basics for the overall presentation and were presented in an understandable manner. Oh, and at times the authors lay on the irony a little too thick and perhaps go a bit over-the-top in some of their interpretations of films, but overall, this is a brilliant book that has broadened the scope of my thinking. It is also a disturbing book. Is there a way out of this? Or is misandry to be permanently institutionalized? The authors provide no remedy. That is depressing.
This is an extraordinarily insightful book that I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone with an intellect. The essay that serves as Appendix 4, "Populist or Elitist? Talk Shows in the Context of Democracy," is an important work on its own. I wish the authors would write another book directed at a more populist audience. I think that perhaps some people in the general audience may tune out during the "Post-Modernism" and "Deconstruction" segments, but I think this is a terrific book and I am grateful to the authors for writing it. I thought I was the only one who had noticed.
A Good First Step On a Much Needed Path.......2006-01-13
Misandry - the hatred or contempt for men - is a very strange phenomenon. Many people have become more aware of a significant uptick in recent years of the denigration of men, usually referred to as male bashing, yet examples of such are so widespread and diffuse that most instances go unnoticed. Many people, especially men, are reluctant to discuss the issue. Doing so not only exposes emotional vulnerability, difficult for many men, but also because those most likely to engage in male bashing are also most likely to ridicule and belittle any man who protests against it.
In SPREADING MISANDRY, the authors Paul Nathanson and Katherine Young not only take up the issue, and do so quite well, but also address those mechanisms that prevent the issue from being better recognized and challenged. The result is a very good book that could pave the way for more widespread discussions of the issue.
The authors focus on misandry in pop culture, most notably movies and TV shows but also greeting cards and cartoons. This focus on pop culture is, in my opinion, one of the strengths of the book as it allows the reader to see how misandry has seeped into the larger culture rather than simply exist within some small isolated corner, such as among academic feminists.
The actual analyses of various movies and TV shows is usually pretty good and at times is exceptional. Interestingly, the authors discuss misandry in moral terms and this infuses their take on things. It is pointed out again and again that male characters are not only evil, but intrinsically so. The directors of such movies feel no need to explain why men are evil. This is not so for women characters who, if they behave in a similar manner, are contextualized so that their behavior is seen not only more sympathetically but usually as a result of mistreatment by men.
Nathanson and Young also focus in on one of the more typical tactics to promote misandry: the one-sided interpretation. This is especially useful in historical pieces as it allows women to be portrayed as having had their choices severely constricted in the past while not pointing out that the same was true for the overwhelming majority of men as well. Producers of such material then defend their pieces by pointing out, well, women did have their choices constricted. But it is not the truth of such a portrayal that is of interest here but rather that men are portrayed as being far, far more privileged than was actually the case. This allows for the male-privileged/female-oppressed dichotomy to flourish in a more subtle manner than overt trashing of men.
If there is a weak point to the book it is that the authors spend more time than is necessary on movies and TV shows that do not even rise to the level of mediocre. More time on other aspects of pop culture, such as the aforementioned greeting cards and comics, would have been some time better spent. Nonetheless, Nathanson and Young are working in fresh territory and some leeway is warranted. Kind of ironic, isn't it? The universities are filled with people who cry out against the injustices of the past and who arrogantly believe that if they themselves had lived way back when, they would have had the moral courage to stand up for what is right. Yet these same academics do live in a time in which some groups are unfairly maligned and stigmatized and not only do they do nothing to stop it, they usually contribute to the problem. SPREADING MISANDRY is a welcome bucking of that trend.
The arrow that splits the arrow that hit the bullseye.......2004-11-11
The other reviews here which gave this book 5 stars have summed up exactly what I think about this book and in turn how I feel about what it says. I just want to add one thing:
thank you God, thank you God, thank you, thank you, thank you.
Amazon.com
Prior to 1906, the U.S. Supreme Court had never tried a criminal case--and the high court had yet to assert its power over state criminal courts. That was all to change after the events of a cold January night earlier that year in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Blond, beautiful, 21-year-old Nevada Taylor had hopped on one of Chattanooga's new electric trolleys after work. Before she could reach home, the young woman was waylaid and raped by an unknown assailant. At first Taylor couldn't describe her attacker to town sheriff Joseph Shipp, as she hadn't seen the man clearly, but she soon became convinced he was "a Negro with a soft, kind voice." In just 17 days, a drifter dubbed a "Negro fiend" by the Chattanooga News had been hastily arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced to hang.
Two idealistic black lawyers intervened, filing appeals to the state and ultimately the U.S. Supreme Court, citing the numerous rights denied the most-likely innocent Ed Johnson. (One of the attorneys said of the suspect, "But for the will of God, that is me.") The high court agreed to hear the appeal, staying the Tennessee execution. But back in Chattanooga, the politically minded Sheriff Shipp looked the other way as a bloodthirsty crowd of hundreds broke Johnson out of jail, beat him brutally, and lynched him on the county bridge.
Mark Curriden, a legal writer for the Dallas Morning News, and Leroy Phillips, a Chattanooga trial attorney, have painstakingly researched and vividly recounted the events of this oft-overlooked but significant episode in America's legal history, from the details of the original crime to the eventual federal conviction of Shipp and members of the lynch mob for contempt. A superb combination of journalistic storytelling and academic rigor. --Paul Hughes
Book Description
The case by which the U.S. Supreme Court declared itself the highest court in the land.
When Ed Johnson, a black man, was wrongly convicted in 1906 of rape and sentenced to death in Tennessee, Supreme Court Justice John Marshall Harlan issued a stay of execution, declaring that Johnson's right to a fair trial had been violated and that he had been railroaded through the criminal justice system. The interference of the Supreme Court was not well received back in Chattanooga. A violent mob answered this federal "interference" by dragging Johnson from his jail cell, beating him, and hanging him from a bridge. Local police did nothing to prevent the lynching, nor were any members of the mob arrested. For the first and only time in history, an enraged Supreme Court conducted a criminal trial to enforce its authority. It brought criminal contempt of court charges against the sheriff, his deputies, and members of the lynch mob.
The first book written about these highly charged events, Contempt of Court raises issues of federalism versus states' rights that are as timely today as they were ninety years ago. Johnson's case led to a precedent-setting criminal trial that is unique in the annals of American jurisprudence. Mark Curriden and Leroy Phillips's riveting tale will prove essential reading for all interested in understanding how American justice works.
Customer Reviews:
Fantastic book for law or history geeks!.......2007-03-08
This is a terrific and rarely-told story from our nation's legal history. This well-written book will be fascinating to anyone who has an interest in the law, civil rights, our nation's history, or just in captivating stories.
Must Read.......2005-06-14
For one interested in the history of federalism in this country, the book is a must read. The book can be enjoyed by both lawyers and lawmen. If you want to understand how and why the United States Supreme Court became involved in declaring state laws unconstitutional and the need for the Federal Courts to apply the United States Constitution to actions of local officials, this book will enable you to understand those reasons. A true story of unhearald courage by a very determined and brave attorney.
Excellent book.......2003-11-10
I ended up reading this book in a little over two days. I was quickly hooked by the fascinating and horrifying story of Ed Johnson, an indigent black man, unjustly accused and convicted by an all-white judicial system that was very typical of the south at the turn of the century. Mr. Johnson's second set of lawyers, two courageous black lawyers, from Chattanooga appeal to the US Supreme Court and set the stage for the most intriguing case to ever be heard before the court. Read the book!
Scary moments of our past.......2003-03-10
When Leroy Phillips, Jr. came to visit my school in Chattanooga, I was overwhelmed by the knowledge that something like this could have happened in my city. After his talk, I decided to read the book for myself. At first, I noticed that the authors took a lot of time to research the subject thoroughly, so much so that I think they know more about Chattanooga than I do, keeping in mind Leroy Phillips does live here. What also impressed me the most was the nonfiction story itself. The story is about a black man named Ed Johnson who was put on trial at first as a scapegoat. However, he eventually was a target for all anti-black aggressions. I mean, for me the 60's were scary, but the brutality and violence of the early 1900's, especially these incidents, are just terrifying. This book will show a detailed look at Chattanooga's past; it will show some historically fascinating law and court decisions, and it will just be an amazing read.
Powerful history of the Law and Racisim.......2003-02-19
Black man accused of raping a white woman. Shakey identification. All white judge, jury, police, sheriff, and all lawyers on both sides. A death penalty case. A jury in the midst of trial jumps up and threatens to rip the defendant's heart out on the spot. He is found guilty. From date of crime to guilty verdict--one week. Defendant advised by his own lawyers after trial: you have two choices, waive appeal and let the State execute you, or appeal and let the mob lynch you.
Then two Black lawyers take up the case. The Supreme Court is horrified at the gross miscarriage of justice, and issues a stay. But the mob, with the Sheriff's apparent approval, decides the legal process is just taking too long, and lynches the defendant.
Contempt of Court tells this story in great detail, bringing all of the characters to life. A fascinating history of the role racism played in the courts at the turn of the century.
But the heart of the book is what followed the lynching. Unlike most cases which were quickly forgotten, the Supreme Court itself instituted contempt charges against the Sheriff for failing to carry out its stay of execution. This is the one and only contempt proceeding ever tried in the Supreme Court itself. It also marked the first time the federal courts had ever sought to review a state court criminal proceeding--setting the stage for such well known rules as "Miranda" and the exclusionary rule.
I completely agree with the blurb on the book's cover. This volume belongs on the shelf next to Simple Justice and Gideon's Trumpet.
Book Description
For more than a year, Christopher Darden argued tirelessly, giving voice to the victims in the 0.J. Simpson murder trial. In this gripping account of one man's extraordinary career, Darden offers an unflinching look at a justice system imperiled by racism and celebrity privilege. Now, out of the sensational frenzy of "the trial of the century" comes a haunting memoir of duty, justice, and thepowerful undertow of American racism.Christopher Darden's In Contempt is an unflinching look at a justice system kidnapped by a racist cop, shameless defense lawyers, a starstruck judge, and a dysfunctional jury. It shows what the television cameras could not:Behind-the-scenes meetings where Darden tried to determine whether Detective Mark Fuhrman was a racist cop The deteriorating relationships between the defense and prosecution teams, with taunting, baiting, and a pushing match between Darden and SimpsonA starstruck judge who let the case get out of control while he collected hourglasses from fans and invited celebrities into his chambers The candid factors behind Darden's controversial decision for Simpson to try on the infamous gloveThe dysfunctional jury who was forced to make a landmark legal decisionThe intimate relationship between Darden and Marcia ClarkA stunning masterpiece told with brutal honesty and courage, In Contempt is the rare story of one man who refused to choose between his heritage and his humanity.
Customer Reviews:
The Dream Team uses the race card........2007-02-17
A nice book about the O.J. Simpson case. I liked how Darden relays his own story of race with the murder case. Clearly, Darden has evolved over the years and became someone to look up to.
Darden tells it like it is with how the Dream Team uses the race card. Up against insurmountable evidence that their client did it, they attack the DA's case by showing there was a rascist cop and a incompetent technician. The jury itself is itching to come to the same conclusion due to the Rodney King beatings.
This is a nice tale on how the justice system is not always right. Two people were murdered and there was little justice.
Cold Case Still A Hot Issue.......2006-10-31
Listening to Christopher Darden's voice on this audio cassette edition of "In Contempt" is probably the best way to go with these highly charged issues. The bloody murder of OJ Simpson's young, beautiful and estranged wife, Nicole Brown, and a young man who's life was snuffed out as it was just beginning, Ron Goldman. Nicole's children sleeping in their beds just inside the house. The voice of the Author ,one of the prosecuting D.A.s in the case, is emotional... very angry. And the contempt he feels for the justice system , the handling of this case, that had so much circumstantial evidence, yet lost to a "Dream Team" of lawyers that convinced the jury to send a message, is more then justified.
Darden starts out with his family's personal history, and the prejudices they faced. Although, it has nothing to do with the case, I think it was important to show, that Darden felt this case was truly about two brutal murders, and that race was not a factor for him. He didn't want to believe that he was assigned to the case, just because he was black. He felt his skills as a lawyer would be an asset to the team of prosecutors. He takes us on a journey back through the events that were turning points in the trial against OJ Simpson. It was tough listening to all the evidence once again, that the jury didn't seem to get. The DNA, the blood trail, the 911 calls from Nicole, etc. In this book, we also finally learn of some of the behind the scenes drama that was going on, and also of Darden's personal trials with his own brother dyeing of AIDS.
Darden is very passionate about getting a conviction, yet owns up to the mistakes he made, that cost him the verdict.He doesn't put all the blame on himself though, and speaks frankly about the way Judge Ito handles the trial and other obstacles thrown in the path of the prosecution along the way, including some of their own witness(e.g. Mark Fuhrman), that opened the door for the 'Dream Team" to take advantage of the testimonies for their own gain. His feelings toward Simpson and Johnny Cochran(head lawyer for the defense) are contemptuous .
The book is very well written and structured as to the events that unfolded in this true life drama. If you were a trial watcher and felt outraged at some of the tactics used, you can imagine how Darden felt. His anger is very apparent. I am by no means a prude, when it comes to books and movies, but I felt that Darden used profane language much to much. I could understand his hatred and anger, and even using the language, quoting himself and others behind the scenes, and maybe even once or twice to reaffirm his anger. But I felt it was used much too much, to the point it became offensive coming from a professional such as himself. I thought it was quite unprofessional, and lowered my opinion of the book, enough to take off a couple of stars.
This audio edition(ISBN: 0694517240) is an abridgment, approved by the Author. It is on two tapes and runs about 3 hours in total. The product info at the top of the page on the audio edtion says it is read by Jess Walter, however as mentioned, it is the Author himself, Christopher Darden who gives the emotional read. I am going to try to contact Amazon, so maybe they can correct it.
An account of the trial of the century from one who was in the thick of things. One that may stir up emotions one way or the other. A good book for a discussion group.....Laurie
Exceptional!!.......2006-06-24
I could not put this book down. Darden has written a book that clearly shows Simpson's guilt. He goes into great detail about the crime scene, and how there was no way that a racist, extremely evil detective could have planted evidence. This book stirred up several emotions as Darden takes you into the courtroom and speaks of things that only the D.A., defense, and Judge "Ego" would know about. Johnny Cochran fueled the fire against the prosecutor, making him appear as though he were an Uncle Tom, and turning his back on his race. Cochran and the defense turned this case into a joke, making it more about race and trying to use that as a distraction instead of what it was really about, the murders of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman. You find out just how brutal these murders really were, as committed by O.J. himself. Darden was a prosecutor, man who was very proud of being an African American. He had to deal with everything from death threats, to the garbage that the defense was pulling.
The evidence, as Darden points out was overwhelming. If you followed this case while it was happening, you already know about the mountain of evidence stacked against Simpson.
Darden talks about where his mistakes were made. He, along with many others, felt that the prosecution took a hit with the so called "glove" incident. But he describes how Simpson was reluctant to put the glove on, and why it appeared not to fit properly.
The prosecutor speaks about his childhood growing up in the Bay area. He talks about the people who helped him along to become the lawyer that he always wanted to be. He also touches on his sick brother Michael, whom he looked up to as a kid.
This book is not only about the Simpson trial. It is about a man who loves his community, loves his family, and believes in the search for justice. I highly recommend it.
This man deserves and gets my utmost respect........2005-03-22
I deeply admire Mr. Darden because of the way in which he fought for justice with so much honesty and dignity. The "Dream Team" got away with all they did thanks to their utterly despicable tactics. Both Mr. Darden and Marcia Clark fought for justice for Nicole Brown, Ron Goldman and their families. Darden recounts all that went on behind-the-scenes during O.J. Simpson's trial as well as recounting his personal life from his childhood up to the trial. Once you read this superb (and heart-rending) book, you WILL BE convinced of O.J. Simpson's guilt (and we all know that O.J. Simpson IS 1000% GUILTY of this horrible double-murder).
Darden Has Nothing to Be Ashamed About..........2003-04-27
I was a junior in college when the O.J. Simpson verdict was announced in October 1995, and I bought Chris Darden's book as soon as it was published. I was (and still am) inspired by Darden's story of how he grew up, why he decided to become a lawyer, and all of his personal and professional trials, tribulations, and triumphs - not to mention the guts that it took to agree to be on the prosecution team of "the trial of the century."
Reading about all of the ostracism that Darden suffered by blacks in L.A. (not to mention being all but skewered in the court of national black public opinion) enraged me. The fact that he was labeled a "sellout," "Uncle Tom," and a "race traitor" of the worst kind for prosecuting (as was his job) a wealthy black celebrity athelete - whom most people, including blacks, knew was guilty as hell! - made me realize as a young black man that sometimes we as blacks indeed are our own worst enemy. As Darden poignantly points out, supporting a black man who, based on the evidence, murdered his white wife and her friend is not "getting back at the [white] man." To add insult to injury, after the verdict and subsequent black celebrations, some black lawyers group decided to "honor" Darden at a dinner - with Johnnie Cochran as the guest speaker, no less - with what I'll term a BLACK GUILT-ASSUAGING AWARD. This was basically their way of saying to Darden, after taking him to the public opinion woodshed for over a year, that "You're still 'down' with us. You're welcome back into the community." In accepting his award, Darden, to his credit, let them know: "You don't have to welcome me back into the community, because I never left."
Christopher Darden has nothing to be ashamed about. He honored the legal profession by doing his civic duty to the best of his ability as an officer of the court AND the law. We could all learn a lot from his example.
Book Description
Contempt is a brilliant and unsettling work by one of the revolutionary masters of modern European literature. All the qualities for which Alberto Moravia is justly famous—his cool clarity of expression, his exacting attention to psychological complexity and social pretension, his still-striking openness about sex—are evident in this story of a failing marriage. Contempt (which was to inspire Jean-Luc Godard's no-less-celebrated film) is an unflinching examination of desperation and self-deception in the emotional vacuum of modern consumer society.
Customer Reviews:
Faustian Bargain and the Unreliable Narrator.......2004-12-27
After a second reading of Contempt, I feel compelled to call the short, tautly written novel a masterpiece. Told from the perspective of a neurotic egotist, the narrator accounts how he "sacrificed" his literary writing career to debase himself in the tawdry task of writing screenplays so that he can afford to lavish his wife with a bigger more opulent living quarters. The narrator convinces himself that not only does his wife not appreciate his "sacrifice," but that she no longer loves him. It's horrifying to read this narcissist's account of his marital disintegration because you begin to realize that he is projecting his own lack of love toward his wife (a pefectly fine, loving woman) and you realize that he is so emotionally arrested that he is incapable of loving anyone. Further, a close reading reveals that the narrator never sacrificed his writing career for his wife's opulent tastes, but rather is debasng his writing talents for his own greedy materialistic acquistion.
Many see Moravia's novel as the quintessential example of "modernism," the movement that emphasizes the human limitation for self-understanding and the understanding of others. Also, the novel explores Freudian themes of projection, paranoia, and the powers of the unconscious.
The novel is fast-paced save for a few chapters where the writer and director indulge in long-winded discussions about the mythical exposition of their film but overall the novel is a real page-turner full of suspense and psychological realism.
If you enjoy this suspensful novel told from the point of view of an unreliable narrator, I recommend Asylum by Patrick McGrath, Despair by Vladimir Nabokov, and The Horned Man by James Lasdun.
Moravia At His Creative Peak.......2004-09-21
Finally, someone had the common decency to reprint Moravia in translation. And they also picked the best titles. Il Disprezzo (The Contempt) is the best, most honest, unflinching look at the disintegration of a relationship that I have ever read. Last released in the States in the 1950's under the title A Ghost at Noon, this is the same excellent translation by Angus Davidson, who translated almost all of the authors works up until his death in 1990. If you've ever experienced the conclusion of a long-term relationship and for some masochistic reason want to remember what it was like, this is the book for you. I guess that's not a ringing endorsement. But trust me, Moravia's penchant for psychological details is so devastatingly on-point, you'll find yourself nodding nauseatingly at the pathetic delusions and convoluted rationalizations taking place between the couple. It should be noted that this isn't the book's only focus. Quite uncharacteristically, Moravia tackles popular culture and the highbrow-lowbrow dichotomy in a darkly humorous fashion. I haven't seen Godard's film adaptation but I understand that it is an incredible achievement in itself.
A modern version of an old myth.......2004-06-01
A theatre writer, Riccardo Molteni, cannot write anymore because his wife, Emilia, does not love him anymore. Moreover, she despises him, all of a sudden.
The search for the reasons which led to this sudden change of feelings, makes Moravia rewrite a modern versin of Ulyse's myth. In a few words, Penelope did not love Ulyse anymore, though she remained faithful to him even before he left for Troja. Why did she not love him? Because the king's behaviour was not masculine enough towards her admirers at the court.
Therefore, Ulyse wins his wife's contempt and consequently leaves for Troja to free himself in a way. After the war, he postpones sine die his return to Ithaca, obessed by the same thing: Penelope's contempt.
When he finally decides to go back home, he knows he has no other solution but to violently kill all Penelope's admirers, in order to get her admiration and love.
And this is how Homer can be well combined with Freud. The moravian style, vivid and direct, manifests itself in this novel, keeping alive the pleasure of your reading.
I think Alberto Moravia is one of the greatest Italian writers of all times. All his novels deal with important issues our society has to face, problems we all have. Many of us will recognize ourselves in his characters.
It will be a very challenging reading that will make you ask a lot of questions about yourself and your life. Enjoy it!
opened to the bone.......2000-05-12
Moravia's writing which I would not have encountered were it not for these elegant new paperback versions of his work is open to the bone. His honest revelations through his all too human characters are poignant, pointed, and penetrating. To any one interested in looking deep inside themeselves and their relationships: I recommend Contempt. Prepare to squirm.
le mepris revisited.......2000-02-22
somehow there is a new found celebration for contempt and everything associated with it. a year and a half ago, godard's contempt was finally re-released; a couple of months ago, two new books about casa malaparte allowed us to view the importance of the film's setting, most notably capri and it's culture, but now this new publication of moravia's contempt will allow everyone to view the masterpiece it truly represents.
Average customer rating:
|
In Contempt of Congress: Postwar Press Coverage on Capitol Hill (Praeger Series in Political Communication)
Mark J. Rozell
Manufacturer: Praeger Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
| Politics
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Federal Government
| Government
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Media & Politics
| Communication
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Political Science
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Communication
| Words & Language
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
Journalism
| Writing
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
Newspapers & Magazines
| Writing
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Foreign Languages
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Mass Communication
| Communications
| Humanities
| New & Used Textbooks
| Stores
| Books
Journalism
| Communications
| Humanities
| New & Used Textbooks
| Stores
| Books
General
| Communications
| Humanities
| New & Used Textbooks
| Stores
| Books
All Amazon Upgrade
| Amazon Upgrade
| Stores
| Books
Arts & Photography
| Amazon Upgrade
| Stores
| Books
Nonfiction
| Amazon Upgrade
| Stores
| Books
Reference
| Amazon Upgrade
| Stores
| Books
ASIN: 0275956903 |
Book Description
Over the past decade, the public's opinion of Congress has declined--election after election--to record lows. Mark J. Rozell examines the electorate's ongoing disgust with its legislature and the reasons for it. Putting recent Congresses in historical perspective, he notes that our modern representatives are actually less corrupt than those of the past, due in large measure to increased public scrutiny and ongoing tightening of ethics and conflict of interest rules. Still, the public remains skeptical, indeed hostile, toward that most representative of our national institutions. Rozell finds that much of the blame goes to highly negative press coverage of the Congress, and government in general, and that while Congress has always been a favorite target of critics and comedians, healthy skepticism has now largely been replaced by a debilitating cynicism that undermines the foundations of representative government. A major study which will be of interest to scholars and students of American politics, government, and media.
Book Description
You can’t play politics with people’s lives.
America’s federal courts have an enormous impact on the daily lives of Americans. They also make up the last relatively independent branch of government. But, there is a committed and well-organized confederation of ultra-conservative politicians, reactionary interest groups, and fundamentalist religious sects working to change that once and for all. And they are succeeding.
How?
They have a plan. They have money. And they have millions of “believers.”
A majority of Americans strongly oppose the dogmatic agenda of this extreme right-wing onslaught, but that majority has remained silent.
Someday, you and your family may wake up in a very different country, a country re-made in their intolerant image, a nation governed by their inflexible laws.
Customer Reviews:
Another Christian Lumper.......2006-07-22
Ms. Crier shows her lack of understanding of the intracacies of Christianity and puts forth a brutish view. For example on page five she refers to it as "Born again Christianity". That may seem like a knitpick on something that isn't a big deal, but it absolutely is a big deal. If you only have a shallow understanding of the person you are talking about, how much of what you say about them is going to be accurate? It's similar to how the majority of Americans of WW2 believed the stereotypes about the Japanese as being the mindless bad guys, not that the Japanese were a sophisticated deep thinking people themselves, but there were many wrong assumptions about them that certainly did not help in dealing with them, for example, dropping atomic bombs on them.
Though she tries to make a Christian take-over a scary issue, 1) she is being a hypocrite as Jesus himself points out, "How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." - Luke 6:42. 2) As our secular government itself has shown, having laws based on opinions, even if influenced by the Bible, and subject to the interpreter and moods of the masses does not lead to better government, it leads to a more corrupt one. 3) She assumes president Bush Jr. is truly a Christian, despite his hypocritical behavior, such as his poor effort to prevent millions of Christians being slaughtered over the years by Muslims in Sudan and other countries from occurring. He's sent no troops to help them. So much for being truly concerned. And Pat Robertson who she cites as a bad guy, seems more to be on her side with his comment that the Chinese gov. has an excuse to force abortions on its citizens. 4) She also doesn't realize that Bible's laws are superior to the Constitution's, because they are based on absolute truths, the Constitution however is based on OPINIONS of what the founders think ARE PROBABLY absolute truths. It's a big difference because the Constitution then is subject to subjective interpretation. And guess what, the founders said they wanted it that way, and stated that the Constitution wasn't meant to be the final word. So ironically, tho Crier tries to scare her readers with altered Ammendments made to favor Christianity, the founders themselves did not oppose changing the Constitution to suit the whims of the people. 5) She also stupidly promotes democracy, despite democracy proving itself to be a failure in our country's history repeatedly, example: Bush Jr. came to power. Blind. 6) She also makes an issue of born again Christians on page 12, which is bizarre since she clearly isn't using the Biblical definition, and if using the dictionary definition, is basically saying, "Beware of those Christians who renewed their faith". What the ****? Why would they be particularly dangerous?
Of course there are legitmate concerns like overstepping what is moral, but no one is perfect, no secular government has shown itself to be perfect, but rather murderous (like the Soviet Union and China, and that includes the U.S.A..) The solution, contrary to this book, to having a good government, is having the Bible as law, because it is absolutely true and good, and every decent person knows Jesus would make the best president, who would dare say he wouldn't?
Important Wake Up Call About The Right Wing Extremists Seeking To Take Over Our Judicial System .......2006-06-29
In "Contempt" Crier does an outstanding job of exposing the danger being posed by right-wingers, especially the Religious Right, in their attempt to take over the court system in America. She discusses the absurd statements and actions of well known evangelical nut cases such as Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson. But she also talks about lesser known religious extremists who are using their power to influence the political process. For example, James Kennedy, who would like to turn America into a Christian theocracy just as Muslim extremists, in countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia, have created oppressive societies based on Shar'ia law. I believe that our strong American tradition of freedom and civil liberties, based on the Constitution and Bill of Rights, will prevent these religious fanatics from ever taking over. Yet no potential American future is more frightening to me than a so-called "Christian Nation" being run by fundamentalist demagogues.
In other chapters of the book, Crier manages to explain our complicated federal court system with impressive clarity, thus turning a potentially dry subject into highly readable material. She also discusses others powerful right wing organizations. For example, the Family Reseach Council, founded by James Dobson, whose primary foucs is on overturning Roe V. Wade. Their president, Tony Perkins, once paid $80,000 [...] leader David Duke to obtain his mailing list. Another disturbing entity is the Federalist Society, which includes Supreme Court justices Antonio Scalia and Clarence Thomas as members. Recent Supreme Court appointee John Roberts also served on one of their steering committees. The Federalist Society are a group of right wing lawyers and judges. They believe in the "Constitution in Exile" ideology which embraces a "State's Rights" philosophy that would do away with federal protections for the environment, education, civil rights and even the national minimum wage law. Another recent Supreme Court appointee, Samuel Alito, is also a supporter of this doctrine. Of course, Roberts and Alito were both nominated by W. Bush. If the Republicans win the next presidential election the Court will likely be even further dominated by more of these right wing extremist judges.
Crier also explores the history of the Constitution and Bill Of Rights and how they were intended to prevent our civil liberties being taken from us by religious zealots as well as their intention to protect religious minorities from government tyranny. She discusses the beliefs of the Founding Fathers, who were mostly either non-Christian Deists or tolerant Unitarians. They were also staunch rationalists, influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment, and would be appalled by the current threat to our American system of government being posed by the irrational dogma of these right wing fundamentalists. Crier's book is a powerful alarm, seeking to warn us about those who would take away our hard won freedoms.
Thought Provoking.......2006-03-17
After reading this book, I did additional research on many of the organizations and think-tanks mentioned (a real eye-opener, make no mistake).
The style of writing is a bit too "stream-of-consciousness" and repetitive but quite thought-provoking, nonetheless.
Okay book, a little shallow and repetitive.......2006-03-10
This book has some interesting points, and I think for those just wanting quick examples to lightly debate this side of the issue, it is okay. My complaints with the book are the lack of a substantial, legitmate argument, repetitious phrases and examples, and the overall layout of the book. I really dislike the "sub" chapters within some of the main chapters; they were distracting and seemed to make the text incoherent. For example, chapter 14, which is rather short, is split into four different subjects and each seems like a brief article written for some other publication and just inserted into the text. I was disappointed in the lack of footnotes, documentation, and references. Also, there are an annoying number of errors. Oh, and I don't really like books with the author posed on the front, but i could have overlooked that if the book was substantive. I expected a lot more from a judge.
I was expecting some legitimate arguments. My guess is this book was rushed to press to coincide with the supreme court nominations occurring at the time.
Buy this book, and a highlighter at the same time........2006-02-23
This former, republican judge from Texas spells out her argument clearly and passionately how the religious right is attempting to change the US Constitution while claiming to support it. According to Crier the religious right takes a hypocritical stand on judicial issues. Any judge who makes a decision they do not like is legislating from the bench i.e. changing the law in their decision rather than interpreting it. She reveals this hypocrisy in the Terry Schiavo case where the evangelical Christian judge followed the law, and ordered life support removal. The Christian right vilified this judge because he failed to change the law in his decision! But, this is only one of many issues for which Crier provides convincing evidence.
The Christian right startegy for taking over our courts include: 1) (Very short) term limits, 2) jurisdictional stripping i.e. remove the courts from hearing challenges to religious-based decisions, 3) impeachment 4) congressional veto of supreme court decisions the congress doesn't like! 5) congressional funding or defunding of courts that are too liberal in their decisions, 6) abolition of courts whose decisions that congress does not like. These strategies are aimed at intimidating judicial decisions.
The Christian movement goes even further. Although fully 80% of the country, Christians are now claiming to be persecuted. They are attempting to revise history claiming that the founders intended the country to be Christian. Serious students of American history already know that Madison, Franklin, Jefferson and Adams and others were actually wary of religion dominating or being a part of politics.
According to Crier, the conressional right-wing and religious zealots are planning daily to bring Christian influence into our courts and our constitution on abortion, marriage, right-to-die, stem-cell research, intelligent design, gun control, statues of the Ten Commandments, etc.
This books present facts that may surprise you:
The republicans charge that their judicial candidates are not given a [fair] chance, yet of the 229 candidates President Bush nominated to the bench, only 10 were blocked, making Bush's approval rate for nominees the highest in years.
Under President Clinton, the republican-controlled senate denied "sixty-three nominees even a hearing, let alone a vote."
In the 20 years prior to 1997, it took 97 days from nomination to confirmation. By 1998, the republicans stretched the nomination to confirmation time to 232 days.
While some critics of this book make a point of her lack of footnotes, or that she described one zealot mistakenly as a psychiatrist rather than a psychologist, the evidence she presents is a matter of public record. This book is too well researched to simply be dismissed.
Only people on the extreme right will discount this book. No one likes their beliefs or opinions challenged by the facts, but this is one you may find yourself reading over and over again.
It also provides a powerful reminder that there is nothing more threatening or dangerous than the self-righteous.
Book Description
Lyndon Johnson and Robert Kennedy loathed each other. Their antagonism, propelled by clashing personalities, contrasting views, and a deep, abiding animosity, would drive them to a bitterness so deep that even civil conversation was often impossible. Played out against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s, theirs was a monumental political battle that would shape federal policy, fracture the Democratic party, and have a lasting effect on the politics of our times. Drawing on previously unexamined recordings and documents, as well as memoirs, biographies, and scores of personal interviews, Jeff Shesol weaves the threads of this epic story into a compelling narrative that reflects the impact of LBJ and RFK's tumultuous relationship on politics, civil rights, the war on poverty, and the war in Vietnam.
Customer Reviews:
Mutual Contempt.......2006-11-15
Jeff Shesol's book is an evenhanded account of the deep animosity that pervaded the relationship between LBJ and RFK, fed by stark personality differences, real and perceived slights, and the stunning reversal of fortune that turned their balance of power upside-down.
Their animosity dated back to the race for the Democratic nomination in 1960, when Johnson hemmed and hawed about whether he would officially entered the race. By the time he committed, it was too late; to Johnson's surprise, the Kennedy machine was unstoppable. Yet there had been a brief bit of competitive mudslinging: when Kennedy's aides wondered aloud whether Johnson's previous heart-attack might be an issue, Johnson's aides leaked the "explosive" news that JFK was afflicted with Addison's disease and being kept alive by large infusions of steroids. Though completely true, the Kennedys vehemently denied this charge. Shesol believes that although JFK saw the episode as politics-as-usual, RFK was unable to forgive what he saw as a personal attack by Johnson on his family.
Given this, RFK was apoplectic when he learned that Johnson would be his brother's running mate. He was not alone in his chagrin, and though JFK's role is ambiguous, RFK visited Johnson in an attempt to have him withdrawal. Told by Johnson that this request would have to come from JFK himself, RFK left in defeat. No such request was to come from John Kennedy, and one can imagine Johnson's bitterness in what he may have perceived as an attempt by RFK to sabotage him. While there would be an element of truth to his suspicions as their relationship progressed, Johnson managed to take paranoia concerning Robert Kennedy to incredible heights.
According to Shesol, Johnson was treated shabbily by the Kennedy crowd, especially RFK. With his Texas manners and sensibilities, he was an easy target for mockery from such paragons of east coast sophistication. Also, RFK was particularly intolerant of those he thought were two-faced, disingenuous, or downright dishonest, while LBJ had a famously ambivalent relationship with the truth. At one point, RFK was given a gift of an LBJ voodoo doll, a gesture which was the cause of much "merriment". Johnson, in turn, chafed at newspaper articles which designated RFK the "number two man" in Washington. Even with his largely ceremonial office, Johnson felt that he should be considered the number two man. With unrealistic expectations of continued power over the Senate, Johnson was increasingly unhappy with his position.
Then, of course, everything changed with the assassination of JFK. Johnson's unnecessary insistence that he take a formal oath of office before leaving Dallas reportedly rankled the Kennedys considerably. Furthermore, Johnson's disingenuous claim that the oath was being taken at RFK's request was particularly "galling". Also, many of Kennedy's aides felt that the trip to Texas was made to help Johnson politically, though others feel that it was exactly the opposite situation, and JFK was trying to shore up his shaky position in the south. Memories of the flight back to Dallas vary considerably, with some calling the transition of power Johnson's finest moment, and others describing his behavior as "obscene".
From this point, everyone was in an extremely difficult political position. Feeling that his legitimacy was dependent on his support of the Kennedy legacy, and dependant on support from the popular Kennedys themselves, Johnson was stuck with RFK's continuing influence, both as the Attorney General and as the head of the Kennedy clan. Over time, they were bound to have conflicting ideas about where the Kennedy legacy would lead. On top of this, RFK was no longer the number two man in Washington. He could "hardly countenance" the fact the LBJ was sitting in the Oval Office. Aides and White House staff, as well as others in the Democratic Party elite, felt compelled to take sides. The contentiousness escalated until, finally, in 1968, RFK and LBJ enjoyed their final split over Vietnam War policy, and Kennedy announced a challenge for the presidential nomination. Though Shesol says that LBJ was convinced that he could win, RFK was extremely popular, and the tide of opinion on Vietnam was turning in his favor. He would have been a very formidable opponent, and may well have given Johnson the final push to decline seeking another term.
If so, Shesol's subtitle could be correct: theirs was the "feud that defined a decade". Certainly, the actions and attitudes of one, whether real or inferred, profoundly affected those of the other, and Johnson policy was sometimes determined not by how effective it might be, but how effective it might be in needling or embarrassing Kennedy. Shesol does not really dwell on the broader implications of the feud, however, and declines to spell out exactly how the decade was "defined" by it, choosing instead to present the animosity in its full, unsavory glory, and to let the reader draw his own conclusions.
AT SWORDS' POINTS.......2000-08-27
Robert Kennedy and LBJ were truly at political, ideological and philosophical swords' points. As one reviewer aptly noted, was their "feud" really one that defined the 1960s? That point is questionable at best, doubtful at worst. The very position these men occupied during that period (Attorney General and later Senator/President respectively) certainly does command the world's interest and attention.
Both men are drawn in stark relief to each other. One point I think is worth mentioning is that they really did have a lot in common. Both men were very bright, very aggressive and very determined. Both men had strong convictions and personalities to match. As has been duly recorded over time, one major point of contention was the Vietnam War.
I agree with one reviewer who questioned the harsh description of Johnson's character. I happen to believe that Johnson was a good, effective administrator. As for the Vietnam War, he inherited that headache and as an unfortunate consequence, followed bad advice about that war instead of bailing out sooner. RFK seemed to feel LBJ was wholly responsible for the war escalation. He neglected to note in his arguments and criticisms of President Johnson that the Vietnam conflict began in the late 1950s! (ca 1957, under Eisenhower's administation). During President Kennedy's tenure in office, the Vietnam conflict was well underway, but it is interesting to note that this author does not really point out that fact.
In this reading, one gets the feeling that Robert Kennedy was still working to protect the interest and reputation of his late brother. Since President Johnson assumed office after President Kennedy's death, one could sympathize with the Attorney General's resentment of anyone assuming that office.
The whole description of the "feud" is really a clashing of ideologies; it is really the parting of ways over issues. This author, to his credit does a thorough job in researching this subject and portrays historical events accurately.
It is hoped that in time, the general perception of LBJ will be softened; LBJ was by far and away the most progressive administrator on domestic issues since FDR. LBJ had more bills enacted during his tenure in office than any other president to date. He took a strong stand on environmental, education and civil rights issues that have positive impacts to this day. He was the president who negotiated and succeeded in securing public/subsidized housing, Head Start programs for underprivileged school children; MediCaid/MediCare and the 1965 Voters' Rights Acts which have today a positive impact on the large number of minorities who vote today. It is the opinion of this reviewer that President Johnson was a good and decent man whose many bills, budgets and proposals have had many positive impacts on the world as we now know it.
Robert Kennedy, the tireless worker who actively became involved in Civil Rights after the death of his brother, provided a parallel view of the work Johnson was already immersed in. Both men shared a vision and a quest for a better world with more advantages extended to all persons and with the rights of all persons more fully protected and enacted.
Robert Kennedy was in many ways not too different from President Johnson in objectives.
An interesting argument taken a touch too far.......1999-08-18
After reading this book, one can hardly contest the author's assertion that Johnson and RFK disliked, feared and resented each other even more than is the case in most political relationships. That no doubt arose largely because of the exceptional circumstances created by JFK's assassination. But did their feud really "define a decade"? No, because the political and social canvas on which their rivalry was played out was far greater than the author allows. That said, the book is extremely well researched, and the wealth of primary sources that are used enables the reader to reach his own conclusions. My main complaint is that the author seems unduly influenced by the views of some of the young "radical" advisors who surrounded RFK. The book also seems to tilt in a slightly bitter manner against Johnson toward the end. Was Johnson really that bad? Looking at what came after him, one is permitted to think not.
Good, but not definitive.......1999-05-09
Given the recent market for books about LBJ, the consistent market for Kennedy books, and the play the LBJ-RFK relationship gets in almost every book about either man (and about JFK), it's surpising that no one has tackled this subject in a book before.
But, as good as this book is, one has to wonder if it's really worth the 500+ pages Shesol devotes to it. (Chris Matthews covered the just as interesting JFK-Nixon relationship in his much shorter, more piquant book "Kennedy & Nixon.) Shesol goes to some length to justify this book's subtitle -- "the feud that defined a decade" -- but doesn't really succeed. Say what you will about either LBJ or RFK, but both were far too canny politically to let their personalities completely overpower the events of the 1960s.
This book is comprehensively researched, sensitive, clear-headed, and impressive...just as you would expect from an academic history paper, which is what the genesis of this book was. But for all that, this book lacks the narrative force, drive, and passion that, say, Robert Caro is likely to bring to this topic when he covers it in his comprehensive, controversial series of "The Years of Lyndon Johnson" books--which are recommended to readers who like this story.
Especially early in this book, Shesol goes off on tangents (for example, on William Manchester & Jackie Kennedy) which might impress a history professor but aren't really necessary in this depth in this type of book.
Readers interested in RFK in particular should check out a very underrated RFK book by Jules Whitcover called "85 Days: The Last Campaign of Robert Kennedy."
Readers can argue forever who, in the end, Shesol likes better. My vote says RFK, but that's far from certain, and it really doesn't matter anyway. Enjoy this book for what it is - a good, somewhat dry, tackling of a subject that is both more simple and more complex than Shesol says.
A thoughtful, well researched account........1999-01-25
Mutual Contempt is a thoughtful, well researched account of this tumultuous relationship and of this tumultuous time. A slight bias toward LBJ detracts only slightly from the history it retells. (I am astounded by an earlier reviewer's conclusion that the opposite slant is the case.) Mr. Shesol is to be commended for his ability to move the story along. Too often writers of histories on narrower topics tend to dwell where they ought not. One exchange which might surprise today's non-historians: RKF admonished the Johnson administration for not spending enough federal money on welfare, anti-poverty programs and food stamps. Query what either man would have thought of President Clinton's statement that the era of big government is over.
Average customer rating:
- Quick Review
- A powerful treatise on the necessity of wisdom of the past.
|
The Arrogance of the Modern: Historical Theology Held in Contempt
David W. Hall
Manufacturer: Covenant Foundation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Church History
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 096503674X |
Book Description
Many people have forgotten the wisdom of our parents, or else they hold the past in contempt. This primer for the use of church history to diagnose modern issues is needed and beneficial. It is an introduction to the likes of C. S. Lewis, St. Augustine, Robert Dabney, G. K. Chesterton, Groen Van Prinsterer, Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others.
Customer Reviews:
Quick Review.......2000-06-09
Many people have forgotten the wisdom of our parents, or else they hold the past in contempt. This primer for the use of church history to diagnose modern issues is needed and beneficial. It is an introduction to the likes of C. S. Lewis, St. Augustine, Robert Dabney, G. K. Chesterton, Groen Van Prinsterer, Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others.
A powerful treatise on the necessity of wisdom of the past........1998-08-02
Recently, syndicated columnist Clarence Page was critical of the selection of the "100 Best English language novels" that had just been issued by ten panelists convened by Random House. In particular, he was concerned over the fact that only six books written in the past 25 years were included. Also, he was concerned that only six books were written by non-whites.
When one realizes that books have been written for thousands of years, the fact that six of "the best 100" novels of all time were written since 1973 is quite astonishing. Further, although non-whites clearly dominate the world scene, few of them have written "English language novels."
Page further noted that the ten panelists who selected the list were all white men, except for one white woman. Included on the panel were such recognized authorities as Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., Gore Vidal, William Styron, Daniel Boorstin, and Christopher Cerf. Page observed that these men have! an average age of 69.
Apparently, this panel suffered from an extreme case of being too old. Obviously, they are biased toward archaic literature created before the advent of Postmodernism and its attendant rule that the value of a piece of literature is to be based on the race, gender and class of its author. These are the only things that count. If you are a white, upper class male, you obviously have nothing to say to this generation. Especially, if you have only one year left in your "three score and ten." Obviously, Socrates, Plato, and other writers from ages past suffered from a severe lack of the appropriate genes, to mention nothing about the racism, sexism and class-ism of their societies.
Into the breach comes a very well documented volume by David W. Hall, with the title, "The Arrogance of the Modern: Historical Theology Held in Contempt." Early on in the book, Hall decries the tendency for researchers and theoreticians to cite only recent! writings as backup of their work. He cites the concept tha! t civilization is a democracy extending far back into time; the "votes" of citizens of old, represented by their writings, are just as important as those written just yesterday.
To cap off his argument, Hall quotes a comment from Lord Acton, in which he said, "Just as the loss of memory in an individual is a psychiatric defect calling for a medical treatment, so too any community which has no social memory is suffering from an illness." Those who do not learn from history, as you will recall, are doomed to repeat it. And, I might add, history has far more of what the Clarence Pages of this generation despise than the present. But, the Balkanization brought on by Postmodern criticism may well be our "unlearned lesson" that finally does us all in.
This volume is a closely-argued, well organized thesis. It is not easy reading but, with the complexity of the subject, I think it is as well written a volume as I have seen. You will not go wrong by ! reading it!
Books:
- The Baroque Narrative of Carlos de Sigüenza y Góngora: A New World Paradise (Cambridge Studies in Latin American and Iberian Literature)
- The BLOOD AND THE SHROUD: NEW EVIDENCE THAT THE WORLDS MOST SACRED RELIC IS REAL
- The Complete Pinball Book: Collecting the Game and Its History (Schiffer Book for Collectors) (Schiffer Book for Collectors)
- The Cornish Trilogy
- The Cutting Room
- The Five Temptations of a CEO: A Leadership Fable
- The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter (Oprah's Book Club)
- The Heat of the Day
- The Hot Sauce Bible
- The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Certification Exam Review: The Pharmacy Technician Series
- When the News Went Live: Dallas 1963
- Replacement Costs & Accounting Reform in Post World War I Germany
- The Complete Idiot's Guide to Independent Filmmaking
- Tools and Tactics for the Master DayTrader: Battle-Tested Techniques for Day, Swing, and Position T
- Waterborne: Poems
- Turbulent Years: The 60s
- Basic Accounting for the Small Business: Simple, Foolproof Techniques for Keeping Your Books Straigh
- The CENTERLESS CORPORATION: A NEW MODEL FOR TRANSFORMING YOUR ORGANIZATION FOR GROWTH AND PROSPERITY
- Knock on Any Door
