By John Amato and David Neiwert
http://www.amazon.com/Over-Cliff-Obamas-Election-American/dp/0982417179
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
When I picked up this book I had no intention of reviewing it; however, once I read it, I changed my mind for one reason: being a follower of politics, I think Amato and Neiwert (two outstanding writers) have accurately chronicled the politics of this moment (May, 2011).
Of course it’s true that both writers are biased. Look at the title! And, too, both writers write from a liberal-progressive slant. Amato has been featured in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and Forbes. Neiwert has been featured in the Washington Post, Alon, Seattle Magazine, and the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Intelligence Report. Also, Neiwert does online reportage for MSNBC. What would you expect from these writers?
If you follow politics closely, and if you listen to MSNBC on a regular basis, some (not most!) of the information in this book will not be new. There are many insights and ideas that are new since both writers have access to information not readily available to political junkies and their search ranged widely as they sought to provide information for this book. It is clearly well-researched! Also, both writers closely follow (just to write a book like this!) the rantings, ravings, and lunatic assertions and assumptions of the American right. Personally, I wouldn’t waste my time. Just the mention of Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachmann, Sean Hannity, Bill O’Reilly, Lou Dobbs, Ann Coulter, Patrick Buchanan, Michael Savage, Newt Gingrich, or Charles Krauthammer (among others) is enough to turn my stomach. Although I have the same political leanings as both writers, I would not have wanted to pursue the research to write this book!
I thought that part of the paragraph on page 113 that represents Republican thinking (as well as the Koch and Coors families and FreedomWorks) pretty much sums up my problem with current politics and my issue with the right wing agenda. Their goal is “to propagandize vulnerable Americans [especially the blue collar, uneducated, and barely literate right wing!] into believing that the fault for their tough economic times lies not with conservative governance (cutting taxes to corporations and the wealthiest Americans, demolishing regulations that protect the working class) but with minorities and welfare recipients—people, they were told, who are just lazy and don’t want to work for themselves and whose laziness is enabled by liberal policies. It is, fundamentally, the practice of the politics of resentment, using cultural wedge issues to pry working-class people away from progressive politics” (p. 113).
The book is well-written (as you can tell from this quotation), to-the-point, and very well reasoned. If for no other reason than representing the way that politics have come to be in the present day, this is a valuable and worthwhile book.
Over the cliff: How Obama’s election drove the American right insane can be purchased at Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Over-Cliff-Obamas-Election-American/dp/0982417179
Monday, August 27, 2012
Monday, August 20, 2012
In the plex: How Google thinks, works, and shapes our lives
By Steven Levy
http://www.amazon.com/Plex-Google-Thinks-Works-Shapes/dp/1416596585/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304432165&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Just looking at this 387-page (of text) book, sixteen pages of notes, with only seven parts and meekly marked chapters within each part, with a heavy amount of verbiage on each page, no pictures, no special boxes, or any interferences of any kind, one can be easily intimidated. Reading the book, however, will change this perspective quickly and directly. Levy is a terrific writer; his stories are interesting and, indeed, engaging; and the narrative is well-organized, and meaningfully and purposefully driven.
For technophiles, and anyone else who might be interested in the etymology, history, maintenance, and continuing evolution of one of the most influential and indispensable aspects of daily life, this book is a “must buy.”
Because of Levy’s unprecedented access to Google, you not only get to look into its headquarters (the Googleplex), but you also see Google from the vantage point of its employees. Levy interviewed “hundreds of current and former Googlers and attended a variety of meetings in the company” (p. 6).
How does Levy know all the in’s and out’s of the workings of the company? The meetings he was allowed to attend “included product development meetings, ‘interface reviews,’ search launch meetings, privacy council sessions, weekly TGIF all-hands gatherings, and the gatherings of the high command known as Google Product Strategy (GPS) meetings, where projects and initiatives are approved or rejected. I also ate a lot of meals at Andale, the burrito joint in Google’s Building 43" (p. 6).
The inside information Levy obtains, the incredibly detailed operations, the decisions that had/have to be made, the thinking that takes/took place, the numerous and exacting quotations, and all the various and intricate movements of this company are told in a fascinating, even riveting, narrative that keeps your attention from beginning to end.
One personal story here merits comment. In the sixth edition of my college textbook (written with Saundra Hybels), Communicating Effectively (2001), I introduced readers to the AltaVista search engine every time I discussed the use of the Internet as a research tool. At that point, Google was not mentioned at all. It was in my seventh edition (2004), that I made a complete switch from discussing AltaVista—which now had one mention (p. 421) —to Google, which, in my seventh had more than a dozen pages as listed in the index. In the very next edition, my eighth (2007), AltaVista was not discussed (even as an alternative search engine), and Google became so predominant, obvious, and accepted that it was no longer even selected for special mention in the index—and it was a prominent fixture throughout the book. Communicating Effectively, now in its 10th edition (McGraw-Hill, 2012) continues to discuss Google alone when it comes to Internet searches. I have grown as a writer along with Google, and in the essays, books, and speeches I write, I depend on it (almost solely) as my immediate and invaluable research tool.
For me Levy’s book is outstanding for its comprehensiveness and depth. I recommend it highly and without reservation.
In the plex: How Google thinks, works, and shapes our lives can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Plex-Google-Thinks-Works-Shapes/dp/1416596585/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304432165&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Just looking at this 387-page (of text) book, sixteen pages of notes, with only seven parts and meekly marked chapters within each part, with a heavy amount of verbiage on each page, no pictures, no special boxes, or any interferences of any kind, one can be easily intimidated. Reading the book, however, will change this perspective quickly and directly. Levy is a terrific writer; his stories are interesting and, indeed, engaging; and the narrative is well-organized, and meaningfully and purposefully driven.
For technophiles, and anyone else who might be interested in the etymology, history, maintenance, and continuing evolution of one of the most influential and indispensable aspects of daily life, this book is a “must buy.”
Because of Levy’s unprecedented access to Google, you not only get to look into its headquarters (the Googleplex), but you also see Google from the vantage point of its employees. Levy interviewed “hundreds of current and former Googlers and attended a variety of meetings in the company” (p. 6).
How does Levy know all the in’s and out’s of the workings of the company? The meetings he was allowed to attend “included product development meetings, ‘interface reviews,’ search launch meetings, privacy council sessions, weekly TGIF all-hands gatherings, and the gatherings of the high command known as Google Product Strategy (GPS) meetings, where projects and initiatives are approved or rejected. I also ate a lot of meals at Andale, the burrito joint in Google’s Building 43" (p. 6).
The inside information Levy obtains, the incredibly detailed operations, the decisions that had/have to be made, the thinking that takes/took place, the numerous and exacting quotations, and all the various and intricate movements of this company are told in a fascinating, even riveting, narrative that keeps your attention from beginning to end.
One personal story here merits comment. In the sixth edition of my college textbook (written with Saundra Hybels), Communicating Effectively (2001), I introduced readers to the AltaVista search engine every time I discussed the use of the Internet as a research tool. At that point, Google was not mentioned at all. It was in my seventh edition (2004), that I made a complete switch from discussing AltaVista—which now had one mention (p. 421) —to Google, which, in my seventh had more than a dozen pages as listed in the index. In the very next edition, my eighth (2007), AltaVista was not discussed (even as an alternative search engine), and Google became so predominant, obvious, and accepted that it was no longer even selected for special mention in the index—and it was a prominent fixture throughout the book. Communicating Effectively, now in its 10th edition (McGraw-Hill, 2012) continues to discuss Google alone when it comes to Internet searches. I have grown as a writer along with Google, and in the essays, books, and speeches I write, I depend on it (almost solely) as my immediate and invaluable research tool.
For me Levy’s book is outstanding for its comprehensiveness and depth. I recommend it highly and without reservation.
In the plex: How Google thinks, works, and shapes our lives can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, August 13, 2012
The Amen Solution: The brain healthy way to lose weight and keep it off (The secret to being thinner, smarter, happier)
By Daniel G. Amen, M.D.
http://www.amazon.com/Amen-Solution-Brain-Healthy-Weight/product-reviews/0307463605/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_helpful?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Some reviewers have complained that there is nothing new in this volume when compared with Amen’s previous books, and for regular readers or followers of Dr. Amen, that might be a problem (concern!). I admit that I have not seen him on television; I have read none of his previous books, and in no way at all could I be considered one of his readers or followers; thus, I am reviewing this book as if it is a first-time experience.
As one overriding insight, I have to admit that any book that recommends exercise and eating right—especially one written by an acclaimed medical doctor, much less a clinical neuroscientist, psychiatrist, and brain imaging expert—is all right by me. To motivate our obese (overweight), lazy, Alzheimer’s prone, depressed population will certainly take more than one enlightening book, but any contribution should be heralded and exclaimed. That is especially true when the prescribed plan is based on a brilliant combination of scientific findings, Amen’s original research, clinical experience, and, of course, common sense.
As a second overriding insight, I must admit that one of the reasons I may not have read or seen Dr. Amen is a simple one. I do much of what Amen recommends. I exercise regularly (and heavily); I watch my weight; I eat highly nutritious meals; I do not snack between meals; I do not eat fast food nor junk food; I think positive, reinforcing, encouraging thoughts; and I am constantly concerned about good health (both body and brain). Am I one who needs an Amen Solution? Probably not—at least not as much as the majority of our population (most of whom will not read this book!).
There are ten chapters and 270 pages of text. Then, in addition, there are 8 appendices, references and further reading suggestions, and a complete index. Perhaps the most important theme throughout the book (and supported as well in his previous books) is for people to understand: “ . . . their brain and weight are intricately connected and that if you boost your brain you can have a better body” (p. 2).
There are a number of things I liked about this book. First, it is well-written. Second, it is well-organized. Third, it is practical and to-the-point. Fourth, it is encouraging and motivational. Fifth, each section is short and easy-to-read. Sixth, he includes short sections, “Get Smart to Get Thinner,” that are quotes from advocates that increase the motivation. Seventh, he incorporates great stories throughout that are fun, interesting, and full of attention-getting detail. Eighth, the photographs dispersed in many chapters are helpful and interesting. Ninth, the scientific findings are incorporated gently and without technical jargon. Tenth, Amen talks directly to his readers in a plain, simple, and direct manner.
I am not saying that Amen’s solutions are earth-shattering (“Physical exercise is a powerful brain booster” (p. 189) revelations about which readers have never heard of previously. But he offers great reminders, wonderful, practical exercises and activities, and a comprehensive examination of the whole range of things people can do to boost their brain and body functioning.
I highly recommend this book without hesitation or reservation; however, I think instead of the title, The Amen Solution, it would probably be more accurate to say, Amen Solutions.
The Amen Solution: The brain healthy way to lose weight and keep it off (The secret to being thinner, smarter, happier) can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Amen-Solution-Brain-Healthy-Weight/product-reviews/0307463605/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_helpful?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Some reviewers have complained that there is nothing new in this volume when compared with Amen’s previous books, and for regular readers or followers of Dr. Amen, that might be a problem (concern!). I admit that I have not seen him on television; I have read none of his previous books, and in no way at all could I be considered one of his readers or followers; thus, I am reviewing this book as if it is a first-time experience.
As one overriding insight, I have to admit that any book that recommends exercise and eating right—especially one written by an acclaimed medical doctor, much less a clinical neuroscientist, psychiatrist, and brain imaging expert—is all right by me. To motivate our obese (overweight), lazy, Alzheimer’s prone, depressed population will certainly take more than one enlightening book, but any contribution should be heralded and exclaimed. That is especially true when the prescribed plan is based on a brilliant combination of scientific findings, Amen’s original research, clinical experience, and, of course, common sense.
As a second overriding insight, I must admit that one of the reasons I may not have read or seen Dr. Amen is a simple one. I do much of what Amen recommends. I exercise regularly (and heavily); I watch my weight; I eat highly nutritious meals; I do not snack between meals; I do not eat fast food nor junk food; I think positive, reinforcing, encouraging thoughts; and I am constantly concerned about good health (both body and brain). Am I one who needs an Amen Solution? Probably not—at least not as much as the majority of our population (most of whom will not read this book!).
There are ten chapters and 270 pages of text. Then, in addition, there are 8 appendices, references and further reading suggestions, and a complete index. Perhaps the most important theme throughout the book (and supported as well in his previous books) is for people to understand: “ . . . their brain and weight are intricately connected and that if you boost your brain you can have a better body” (p. 2).
There are a number of things I liked about this book. First, it is well-written. Second, it is well-organized. Third, it is practical and to-the-point. Fourth, it is encouraging and motivational. Fifth, each section is short and easy-to-read. Sixth, he includes short sections, “Get Smart to Get Thinner,” that are quotes from advocates that increase the motivation. Seventh, he incorporates great stories throughout that are fun, interesting, and full of attention-getting detail. Eighth, the photographs dispersed in many chapters are helpful and interesting. Ninth, the scientific findings are incorporated gently and without technical jargon. Tenth, Amen talks directly to his readers in a plain, simple, and direct manner.
I am not saying that Amen’s solutions are earth-shattering (“Physical exercise is a powerful brain booster” (p. 189) revelations about which readers have never heard of previously. But he offers great reminders, wonderful, practical exercises and activities, and a comprehensive examination of the whole range of things people can do to boost their brain and body functioning.
I highly recommend this book without hesitation or reservation; however, I think instead of the title, The Amen Solution, it would probably be more accurate to say, Amen Solutions.
The Amen Solution: The brain healthy way to lose weight and keep it off (The secret to being thinner, smarter, happier) can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, August 6, 2012
101 ways to promote your web site, 8th edition and 19 ways to survive: Small-business strategies for a tough economy
By Susan Sweeney
http://www.amazon.com/101-Ways-Promote-Your-Site/dp/1931644780/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311878960&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a simple, forthright, well-planned, easy-to-follow guide/resource that included not just planning your web site, but designing it to be search engine friendly, ways to keep visitors coming back, permission marketing, spreading the word with viral marketing, how to reveal great content, explanations about landing pages, developing a pay-to-play strategy, email and signature files, autoresponders, consumer-generated media, establishing private mailing lists, developing dynamite links, winning awards, online advertising, maximizing media relations, increasing traffic through online publications, marketing through blogs, social media, facebook, linkedin, twitter, YouTube, video-sharing sites, Flickr, mobile marketing, interactive mapping, the power of partnering, and web traffic analysis.
Why did I go through all the subjects covered in the book? Because it shows the comprehensiveness of the book. This is a truly remarkable book for all that it contains. Also, Sweeney writes in a very comfortable, understandable style. The sections are short and conversational, there are numerous bullet-pointed lists, figures to illustrate topics that are covered, and a minimum amount of technical language and computerese.
For those just starting out, Sweeney’s book offers not just a great introduction, but a resource to refer to over and over again as one continues the process of building and maintenance.
As an author of five popular books with a website to support each of them, I must admit that my son and I have used many of the suggestions Sweeney offers. They are effective and useful. I highly recommend her book for both its clarity and comprehensiveness.
101 ways to promote your web site, 8th edition can be purchased at Amazon.
= * = * = * = * = * = * = * =
By Lynn Spry and Philip Spry
http://www.amazon.com/19-Ways-Survive-Small-business-strategies/dp/1551808919/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304380761&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II
I found this 163-page book quite similar to 101 Ways to Promote Your Web Site by Susan Sweeney for a number of reasons. First, it is simple and to the point. Second, it is well-written and well-organized. Third, there are short sections, numerous bullet-pointed lists, and a great deal of practical advice.
I regret that there are no footnotes, notes, bibliography, or index. There are 20 chapters (averaging 8 pages per chapter) in a 8 1/4" x 10 3/4" format. Chapters cover how to make your business a success, complying with all government rules and regulations, taxes, eliminate the financial obstacles, understand the financial health of your organization, understand your industry to become a leader in your field, ask for support and assistance, take stock of your supplies, focus on your target market, keep your customers and clients happy, motivate you employees, manage your problem employees, document your critical processes to ensure consistent, quality customer service, train your employees to increase sales and improve profitability, turning your store into a showplace, adapt to changing market conditions, compete effectively with big businesses, take advantage of barter opportunities, protecting your business from theft and fraud, enuring that the functions critical to your business are stable, backed up, and insured, and the final chapter (#20), “Now That You Know the ‘Ways,’ Continue to Search for New Opportunities.”
I list the subjects, once again, to help readers know the comprehensiveness of this book.
I enjoyed spry and Spry’s additional sections they scattered throughout the book: “Lifesaver” gave direct advice about things readers should purchase (like a day planner), pay attention to, or do. Sections titled “Warning” keeps readers abreast of things to be cautious about, and sections called “Moneymaker” offers specific ways to bring in new clients and customers or, if they have visited and not purchased anything, ways that will bring them back. “Moneymaker” also offers ways to create new revenue streams.
It should be clear that this is not rocket science. Anyone who is setting up a new business probably knows most of the information in this book (or should), but it is, first, a great starting point with suggestions and reminders, second, an elementary resource book that may offer a few new ideas and can be referred to again and again, and, third, a checklist to make certain that all readers’ bases are covered.
19 ways to survive: Small-business strategies for a tough economy can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/101-Ways-Promote-Your-Site/dp/1931644780/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311878960&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a simple, forthright, well-planned, easy-to-follow guide/resource that included not just planning your web site, but designing it to be search engine friendly, ways to keep visitors coming back, permission marketing, spreading the word with viral marketing, how to reveal great content, explanations about landing pages, developing a pay-to-play strategy, email and signature files, autoresponders, consumer-generated media, establishing private mailing lists, developing dynamite links, winning awards, online advertising, maximizing media relations, increasing traffic through online publications, marketing through blogs, social media, facebook, linkedin, twitter, YouTube, video-sharing sites, Flickr, mobile marketing, interactive mapping, the power of partnering, and web traffic analysis.
Why did I go through all the subjects covered in the book? Because it shows the comprehensiveness of the book. This is a truly remarkable book for all that it contains. Also, Sweeney writes in a very comfortable, understandable style. The sections are short and conversational, there are numerous bullet-pointed lists, figures to illustrate topics that are covered, and a minimum amount of technical language and computerese.
For those just starting out, Sweeney’s book offers not just a great introduction, but a resource to refer to over and over again as one continues the process of building and maintenance.
As an author of five popular books with a website to support each of them, I must admit that my son and I have used many of the suggestions Sweeney offers. They are effective and useful. I highly recommend her book for both its clarity and comprehensiveness.
101 ways to promote your web site, 8th edition can be purchased at Amazon.
= * = * = * = * = * = * = * =
By Lynn Spry and Philip Spry
http://www.amazon.com/19-Ways-Survive-Small-business-strategies/dp/1551808919/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304380761&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II
I found this 163-page book quite similar to 101 Ways to Promote Your Web Site by Susan Sweeney for a number of reasons. First, it is simple and to the point. Second, it is well-written and well-organized. Third, there are short sections, numerous bullet-pointed lists, and a great deal of practical advice.
I regret that there are no footnotes, notes, bibliography, or index. There are 20 chapters (averaging 8 pages per chapter) in a 8 1/4" x 10 3/4" format. Chapters cover how to make your business a success, complying with all government rules and regulations, taxes, eliminate the financial obstacles, understand the financial health of your organization, understand your industry to become a leader in your field, ask for support and assistance, take stock of your supplies, focus on your target market, keep your customers and clients happy, motivate you employees, manage your problem employees, document your critical processes to ensure consistent, quality customer service, train your employees to increase sales and improve profitability, turning your store into a showplace, adapt to changing market conditions, compete effectively with big businesses, take advantage of barter opportunities, protecting your business from theft and fraud, enuring that the functions critical to your business are stable, backed up, and insured, and the final chapter (#20), “Now That You Know the ‘Ways,’ Continue to Search for New Opportunities.”
I list the subjects, once again, to help readers know the comprehensiveness of this book.
I enjoyed spry and Spry’s additional sections they scattered throughout the book: “Lifesaver” gave direct advice about things readers should purchase (like a day planner), pay attention to, or do. Sections titled “Warning” keeps readers abreast of things to be cautious about, and sections called “Moneymaker” offers specific ways to bring in new clients and customers or, if they have visited and not purchased anything, ways that will bring them back. “Moneymaker” also offers ways to create new revenue streams.
It should be clear that this is not rocket science. Anyone who is setting up a new business probably knows most of the information in this book (or should), but it is, first, a great starting point with suggestions and reminders, second, an elementary resource book that may offer a few new ideas and can be referred to again and again, and, third, a checklist to make certain that all readers’ bases are covered.
19 ways to survive: Small-business strategies for a tough economy can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Fortytude: Making the next decades the best years of your life---through the 40s, 50s, and beyond
By Sarah Brokaw
http://www.amazon.com/Fortytude-Making-Decades-through-Beyond/dp/1401341195/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1304294980&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a 262-page book that is a well-written collection of stories that Brokaw has drawn from her therapy practice in Beverly Hills, California. There are many similar books, and there is no question that they make interesting reading. There are a total of 46 notes, 27 of which come from the Internet.
There are five core values (1. Grace, 2. Connectedness, 3. Accomplishment, 4. Adventure, and 5. Spirituality) that form the major parts of the book, then each part has three chapters, which, along with an introduction and conclusion form the eighteen chapters of the book.
Throughout the book, Brokaw references her family (“Of course, my parents did not view things this way” (p. 107).) the way she grew up (“Still, to this day, I can struggle with the sense of not being good enough. . . .” (p. 09).) , and even how she occasionally seeks their opinion. “Naturally, I consulted my mother and father for their opinion on this subject” (p. 86). Tom Brokaw, the former NBC news reporter, is her father.
Brokaw has a master’s degree in social work from New York University, and throughout the book she cites her work as a therapist as her basis for saying things: “In my practice, I’ve observed that many people cheat. . . .” (p. 93). “As a therapist, I’ve also learned that a lot of clients have a hard time talking about sex” (p. 174). “As I work with couples, I strive to help them understand. . . .” (p. 175). She dispenses advice such as, “I generally suggest that single women not date online, go to bars, get set up on blind dates, or buy tickets to expensive events if they sincerely feel that they won’t enjoy themselves” (p. 194). Aren’t readers lucky to have her advice?
You learn a great deal about Sarah Brokaw from reading her book. She talks about her upbringing, her education, her current status (“At 40, I am still not married, though I have been in and out of long-term relationships” (p. 191).) And her advice is sprinkled throughout the book: “‘You can’t change what’s happened in your life, but you can change your narrative.’ This is something I say frequently to my clients. . . .” (p. 225), or “It may sound strange to some, but I found deep spiritual satisfaction in surfing” (p. 240). This makes the book a more enjoyable read, it is true, and I can see why some readers will not just get hooked on the narrative, but adopt her ideas as proven ideas.
Having read the reviews of her book at Amazon.com, I am not surprised that most give her book a five-star rating, however, I am a little suspect. I wonder about the influence Tom Brokaw might have had in these. Perhaps, for example, he passed the book to some of his friends who posted their reviews and ratings. I am not saying the book is not deserving of these reviews, I am just saying that it looks very suspicious.
Having examined a number of books using this same format (narratives of clients’ lives as the main support for the author’s observations (and even selecting five core values, key principles, important concepts, or essential beliefs), I find this book similar in kind. It is interesting, true, but I don’t think it offers a large number of new ideas. It may be worthwhile for those who need encouragement, support, or just an uplifting, inspiring read. There is no question Brokaw can revitalize and give a shot in the arm to those who are reaching or have recently passed their 40th birthday.
Fortytude: Making the next decades the best years of your life—through the 40s, 50s, and beyond can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Fortytude-Making-Decades-through-Beyond/dp/1401341195/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1304294980&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a 262-page book that is a well-written collection of stories that Brokaw has drawn from her therapy practice in Beverly Hills, California. There are many similar books, and there is no question that they make interesting reading. There are a total of 46 notes, 27 of which come from the Internet.
There are five core values (1. Grace, 2. Connectedness, 3. Accomplishment, 4. Adventure, and 5. Spirituality) that form the major parts of the book, then each part has three chapters, which, along with an introduction and conclusion form the eighteen chapters of the book.
Throughout the book, Brokaw references her family (“Of course, my parents did not view things this way” (p. 107).) the way she grew up (“Still, to this day, I can struggle with the sense of not being good enough. . . .” (p. 09).) , and even how she occasionally seeks their opinion. “Naturally, I consulted my mother and father for their opinion on this subject” (p. 86). Tom Brokaw, the former NBC news reporter, is her father.
Brokaw has a master’s degree in social work from New York University, and throughout the book she cites her work as a therapist as her basis for saying things: “In my practice, I’ve observed that many people cheat. . . .” (p. 93). “As a therapist, I’ve also learned that a lot of clients have a hard time talking about sex” (p. 174). “As I work with couples, I strive to help them understand. . . .” (p. 175). She dispenses advice such as, “I generally suggest that single women not date online, go to bars, get set up on blind dates, or buy tickets to expensive events if they sincerely feel that they won’t enjoy themselves” (p. 194). Aren’t readers lucky to have her advice?
You learn a great deal about Sarah Brokaw from reading her book. She talks about her upbringing, her education, her current status (“At 40, I am still not married, though I have been in and out of long-term relationships” (p. 191).) And her advice is sprinkled throughout the book: “‘You can’t change what’s happened in your life, but you can change your narrative.’ This is something I say frequently to my clients. . . .” (p. 225), or “It may sound strange to some, but I found deep spiritual satisfaction in surfing” (p. 240). This makes the book a more enjoyable read, it is true, and I can see why some readers will not just get hooked on the narrative, but adopt her ideas as proven ideas.
Having read the reviews of her book at Amazon.com, I am not surprised that most give her book a five-star rating, however, I am a little suspect. I wonder about the influence Tom Brokaw might have had in these. Perhaps, for example, he passed the book to some of his friends who posted their reviews and ratings. I am not saying the book is not deserving of these reviews, I am just saying that it looks very suspicious.
Having examined a number of books using this same format (narratives of clients’ lives as the main support for the author’s observations (and even selecting five core values, key principles, important concepts, or essential beliefs), I find this book similar in kind. It is interesting, true, but I don’t think it offers a large number of new ideas. It may be worthwhile for those who need encouragement, support, or just an uplifting, inspiring read. There is no question Brokaw can revitalize and give a shot in the arm to those who are reaching or have recently passed their 40th birthday.
Fortytude: Making the next decades the best years of your life—through the 40s, 50s, and beyond can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, July 23, 2012
American Idol: The untold story
By Richard Rushfield
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Simple-Living-Paths-Better/dp/1440204519
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
No, I am not a big fan nor a consistent follower of the program. I enjoy watching it when the contestants are narrowed down to ten or so. On one particular day in April, 2011, I watched the show (it featured rock-n’-roll selections), and I was shocked to discover that I enjoyed every song that was sung, and I thought that every singer had selected an absolutely appropriate song for their own vocal range and ability. Even the judges were amazed and noted that it would be difficult for viewers to select one of the contestants for elimination.
Since I don’t follow the show religiously, I really don’t care who the eliminated contestant is nor do I care who the winner might be. That is a casual interest if there ever was one.
I say all of the above for one reason. Unlike some of the reviewers of Rushfield’s book, I am unable to pick out errors—unless they are misspellings, grammatical errors, or typos (which are obvious and a few are present).
Okay, as a non-fan, then, why would I even select this book for review? First, I enjoy some pop culture, and this book certainly is all about a pop culture occurrence. Second, I enjoy media events, and American Idol must be catalogued as a major media event. Third, I delight in well-written material that reveals (to some degree) what goes on behind the scenes. Rushfield certainly gets in behind the scenes. Finally, fourth, I enjoy an entertaining read. The interviews and stories are definitely entertaining.
There is so much here that is just fun. The material is well put together, reads easily, and covers a great deal of territory. From the back flyleaf, the background of Rushfield includes this comment: “For three years RICHARD RUSHFIELD covered American Idol for the Los Angeles Times writing hundreds of columns and conducting thousands of interviews with cast and crew. He is currently an entertainment columnist for The Daily Beast . . . .” Not only does his history of covering the show become easily seen, but his writing experience, too, is quickly revealed.
I loved the information on how the judges were initially selected, how Ryan Seacrest found his niche, how decisions about what songs were sung were made, various contestants views of the whole process (especially the exhausting rehearsals), and how the various aspects of the show came to be—the decisions that had to be made as well as the influences on those making the decisions. Even the decisions about how to handle the voting because of the different time zones in this country was interesting to read.
One thing I wished from first opening this book, is that the chapter titles were more descriptive of what was included in the various chapters. Some are obvious like “Creator,” but “Lightbulbs,” “Enter the Dragon,” “Pop Goes the Idol,” “The Crossing,” “Showtime,” “Once Upon a Time,” “The Exile,” “Goliah,” “Divas,” “Simon vs. Simon,” “The Anti-Christ,” “Detente,” “Ponyhawk,” “The Bubble,” Twilight of the Valkyries,” “The Pastor,” “Tweak House, “Leaving Idol,” and “The End of the Day.” Most of these titles reveal nothing, and if a reader was interested in reading just a portion of the book (knowing little before delving into it), how would he or she know where to look from just these chapter titles alone?
This book isn’t for everyone of course. Many will find it boring. Many will have no reference base for the material. Many, on the other hand, are likely to find it entertaining (as I did) and enjoy the insights and information.
American Idol: The untold story can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Simple-Living-Paths-Better/dp/1440204519
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
No, I am not a big fan nor a consistent follower of the program. I enjoy watching it when the contestants are narrowed down to ten or so. On one particular day in April, 2011, I watched the show (it featured rock-n’-roll selections), and I was shocked to discover that I enjoyed every song that was sung, and I thought that every singer had selected an absolutely appropriate song for their own vocal range and ability. Even the judges were amazed and noted that it would be difficult for viewers to select one of the contestants for elimination.
Since I don’t follow the show religiously, I really don’t care who the eliminated contestant is nor do I care who the winner might be. That is a casual interest if there ever was one.
I say all of the above for one reason. Unlike some of the reviewers of Rushfield’s book, I am unable to pick out errors—unless they are misspellings, grammatical errors, or typos (which are obvious and a few are present).
Okay, as a non-fan, then, why would I even select this book for review? First, I enjoy some pop culture, and this book certainly is all about a pop culture occurrence. Second, I enjoy media events, and American Idol must be catalogued as a major media event. Third, I delight in well-written material that reveals (to some degree) what goes on behind the scenes. Rushfield certainly gets in behind the scenes. Finally, fourth, I enjoy an entertaining read. The interviews and stories are definitely entertaining.
There is so much here that is just fun. The material is well put together, reads easily, and covers a great deal of territory. From the back flyleaf, the background of Rushfield includes this comment: “For three years RICHARD RUSHFIELD covered American Idol for the Los Angeles Times writing hundreds of columns and conducting thousands of interviews with cast and crew. He is currently an entertainment columnist for The Daily Beast . . . .” Not only does his history of covering the show become easily seen, but his writing experience, too, is quickly revealed.
I loved the information on how the judges were initially selected, how Ryan Seacrest found his niche, how decisions about what songs were sung were made, various contestants views of the whole process (especially the exhausting rehearsals), and how the various aspects of the show came to be—the decisions that had to be made as well as the influences on those making the decisions. Even the decisions about how to handle the voting because of the different time zones in this country was interesting to read.
One thing I wished from first opening this book, is that the chapter titles were more descriptive of what was included in the various chapters. Some are obvious like “Creator,” but “Lightbulbs,” “Enter the Dragon,” “Pop Goes the Idol,” “The Crossing,” “Showtime,” “Once Upon a Time,” “The Exile,” “Goliah,” “Divas,” “Simon vs. Simon,” “The Anti-Christ,” “Detente,” “Ponyhawk,” “The Bubble,” Twilight of the Valkyries,” “The Pastor,” “Tweak House, “Leaving Idol,” and “The End of the Day.” Most of these titles reveal nothing, and if a reader was interested in reading just a portion of the book (knowing little before delving into it), how would he or she know where to look from just these chapter titles alone?
This book isn’t for everyone of course. Many will find it boring. Many will have no reference base for the material. Many, on the other hand, are likely to find it entertaining (as I did) and enjoy the insights and information.
American Idol: The untold story can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, July 16, 2012
The heart of simple living: 7 paths to a better life
By Wanda Urbanska
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Simple-Living-Paths-Better/dp/1440204519
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I did not know Wanda Urbanska, have little background regarding the whole “simple living” idea, and do not live (nor desire to live) the “simple life” by any stretch of the imagination. Then why did I select this book to review, you might wonder?
First, I enjoy discovering new things. I thought there was a chance that my mind would be opened to a new revelation, a fresh insight, or even a vibrant point of view. Maybe, too, there would be room in the “simple living” panorama, for a small little bush like myself!
Second, Urbanska is the author or coauthor of eight books, is the host/producer of a syndicated public television series, possesses an attractive publishing record (The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, Mother Earth News, American Libraries, and Natural Home), and is a graduate of Harvard University. I actually thought she might have something to say.
Third, I thought that in the discussions of her topics, she might offer some new insights or suggestions. She covers such topics as financial independence, work, housing happiness, homemaking, kitchen and garden work, as well as community living.
For someone just starting out in life—with very little real-life experience—this might be a convenient place to begin discovering what life is all about. Also, for someone who has done little or no reading on any of these subjects, this book might serve as a primer to get you started. It covers the basics.
I was quite disappointed overall. I found Urbanska had little new to say. Her ideas have been well (thoroughly) discussed in other places — as well as in newspaper and magazine articles. This book has been drawn from other popular books as well as websites that anyone can quickly find. Also, it has been drawn from Urbanska’s wealth of common knowledge. Most of these ideas are simple, and one would discover them quickly from one’s daily experiences.
If all you are looking for is a delightful read, this is a good book. If you want depth, you won’t find it here. If you want to avoid your own common sense (or add only minimally to it!), this would be a good resource as well. I found the book rather trite and unnecessary.
The heart of simple living: 7 paths to a better life can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Simple-Living-Paths-Better/dp/1440204519
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I did not know Wanda Urbanska, have little background regarding the whole “simple living” idea, and do not live (nor desire to live) the “simple life” by any stretch of the imagination. Then why did I select this book to review, you might wonder?
First, I enjoy discovering new things. I thought there was a chance that my mind would be opened to a new revelation, a fresh insight, or even a vibrant point of view. Maybe, too, there would be room in the “simple living” panorama, for a small little bush like myself!
Second, Urbanska is the author or coauthor of eight books, is the host/producer of a syndicated public television series, possesses an attractive publishing record (The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, Mother Earth News, American Libraries, and Natural Home), and is a graduate of Harvard University. I actually thought she might have something to say.
Third, I thought that in the discussions of her topics, she might offer some new insights or suggestions. She covers such topics as financial independence, work, housing happiness, homemaking, kitchen and garden work, as well as community living.
For someone just starting out in life—with very little real-life experience—this might be a convenient place to begin discovering what life is all about. Also, for someone who has done little or no reading on any of these subjects, this book might serve as a primer to get you started. It covers the basics.
I was quite disappointed overall. I found Urbanska had little new to say. Her ideas have been well (thoroughly) discussed in other places — as well as in newspaper and magazine articles. This book has been drawn from other popular books as well as websites that anyone can quickly find. Also, it has been drawn from Urbanska’s wealth of common knowledge. Most of these ideas are simple, and one would discover them quickly from one’s daily experiences.
If all you are looking for is a delightful read, this is a good book. If you want depth, you won’t find it here. If you want to avoid your own common sense (or add only minimally to it!), this would be a good resource as well. I found the book rather trite and unnecessary.
The heart of simple living: 7 paths to a better life can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, July 9, 2012
The gift of anger: 7 steps to uncover the meaning of anger and gain awareness, true strength, and peace
By Marcia Cannon
http://www.amazon.com/Gift-Anger-Uncover-Awareness-Strength/dp/1572249668/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1303868249&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
“The power of anger comes from its narrowed focus, from the blinders it puts on your vision so that you can’t see the whole of the person you’re angry at. All you can see is their injurious behavior. Take the blinders off by completing this step and you make room for the other person, for their difficulties as well as their shortcomings. With this widening focus, this increased ability to see the other person, your anger is much more likely to dissipate” (p. 130).
With a Ph.D. (and an MFT—marriage and family therapist) and fifteen years as a marriage and family therapist, Cannon writes practical information with confidence and knowledge. The quotation above reveals the practical nature of her approach, the basic viewpoint she holds, and her writing style.
From the California Marriage and Family Therapists’ website it says this about marriage and family therapists: “Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are relationship specialists who treat persons involved in interpersonal relationships. They are trained to assess, diagnose and treat individuals, couples, families and groups to achieve more adequate, satisfying and productive marriage, family and social adjustment.”
With respect to California requirements for an MFT, this site goes on to say,”Requirements for licensure include a related doctoral or two-year master's degree, passage of a comprehensive written and oral examination and at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience.“ I mention this for two reasons: 1) I knew nothing of an MFT, and 2) an MFT truly adds credibility to Cannon’s expertise and experience.
After discussing anger, its power, and the nature of beliefs and feelings (an excellent background into the roots, causes, and persistence of anger) she offers seven steps: 1) Acknowledge your anger and safely regain your emotional balance, 2) Notice your thoughts and feelings, 3) Give yourself validation, 4) Identify your unmet need, 5) Take action to meet your need, 6) Explore the other person’s frame of reference, and 7) Free yourself with forgiveness.
The book is full of case studies, exercises, and summaries in the form of “The Gift-of-Anger Process” found at the end of each chapter.
This is a practical, valuable, and handy reference tool for those who have anger issues. It is a great book to give to others you know who have anger problems. To have this book available is useful (once you have read it) to be able to pull it off the shelf and review it. It is that practical; it is that effective; and it is that important.
The gift of anger: 7 steps to uncover the meaning of anger and gain awareness, true strength, and peace can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Gift-Anger-Uncover-Awareness-Strength/dp/1572249668/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1303868249&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
“The power of anger comes from its narrowed focus, from the blinders it puts on your vision so that you can’t see the whole of the person you’re angry at. All you can see is their injurious behavior. Take the blinders off by completing this step and you make room for the other person, for their difficulties as well as their shortcomings. With this widening focus, this increased ability to see the other person, your anger is much more likely to dissipate” (p. 130).
With a Ph.D. (and an MFT—marriage and family therapist) and fifteen years as a marriage and family therapist, Cannon writes practical information with confidence and knowledge. The quotation above reveals the practical nature of her approach, the basic viewpoint she holds, and her writing style.
From the California Marriage and Family Therapists’ website it says this about marriage and family therapists: “Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are relationship specialists who treat persons involved in interpersonal relationships. They are trained to assess, diagnose and treat individuals, couples, families and groups to achieve more adequate, satisfying and productive marriage, family and social adjustment.”
With respect to California requirements for an MFT, this site goes on to say,”Requirements for licensure include a related doctoral or two-year master's degree, passage of a comprehensive written and oral examination and at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience.“ I mention this for two reasons: 1) I knew nothing of an MFT, and 2) an MFT truly adds credibility to Cannon’s expertise and experience.
After discussing anger, its power, and the nature of beliefs and feelings (an excellent background into the roots, causes, and persistence of anger) she offers seven steps: 1) Acknowledge your anger and safely regain your emotional balance, 2) Notice your thoughts and feelings, 3) Give yourself validation, 4) Identify your unmet need, 5) Take action to meet your need, 6) Explore the other person’s frame of reference, and 7) Free yourself with forgiveness.
The book is full of case studies, exercises, and summaries in the form of “The Gift-of-Anger Process” found at the end of each chapter.
This is a practical, valuable, and handy reference tool for those who have anger issues. It is a great book to give to others you know who have anger problems. To have this book available is useful (once you have read it) to be able to pull it off the shelf and review it. It is that practical; it is that effective; and it is that important.
The gift of anger: 7 steps to uncover the meaning of anger and gain awareness, true strength, and peace can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Why normal people do some crazy things: Nine fundamentals of human behavior
By Kevin Davis
http://www.amazon.com/Normal-People-Some-Crazy-Things/dp/0981934307
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II , Ph.D.
The first thing that concerned me when I began this book was where the “nine fundamentals of human behaviors” originated. I searched the back of the book for notes, sources, or a bibliography and found none. I looked at the back of each chapter and even at the bottom of pages throughout the book and found none. I checked within paragraphs to see if citations were included, and I found none.
Then I found the answer. Davis says, “I wrote this book to share some of my perspectives about why people behave the way they do. I call these broad categories of motivations that underlie people’s actions, ‘Fundamentals’ of human behavior” (p. 5).
These are Davis’s perceptions that “gelled over time as I worked with clients” (p. 5). “In developing these Fundamentals, I attempted to categorize large variations of human behavior into simplified, understandable and usable concepts” (p. 5).
Davis’s nine fundamentals are: 1) “Everyone is terrified and therefore unreliable...until they’re not,” 2) “No one wants you to succeed too well or fail too badly,” 3) “Genuine interest in and attention to others is a rare commodity,” 4) “Most relationships, and their recurring problems, are based on power dynamics,” 5) “Everyone is rushing toward the white picket fence,” 6) “The Immature Masculine tries to run from or dominate the Feminine,” 7) Everyone points the finger,” 8) “We all have multiple personalities,” and 9) We are all addicted to intensity.”
“Ultimately,” Davis writes, “these Fundamentals are ‘one man’s opinion’ and they are intended to serve as a starting point for discussion” (p. 7). Discussion starters. The problem, as I see it (and this is just one man’s opinion!), is that there are no sources to support these fundamentals. Why couldn’t the author expand readers’ perspectives, reading opportunities, and research possibilities with “further reading”suggestions?
The answer could lie in one element: The author only has an M.A. He has not researched his own ideas. He has no fundamental knowledge base except his own. Throughout the book, to support this possibility, he includes shaded boxes labeled “Author’s personal experience,” “From actual conversation,” “Excerpt from coaching session,” and “From actual event.” These are his sources. I wonder if Davis has ever considered the fact that single instances, no matter how significant they may seem, do not prove a point, and, too, can be slanted in any direction to make or prove a point! They are not—by any stretch of the imagination—evidence!
Now, I want it to be clear that this is not an indictment of the book. After all, Davis admits what he has done. Further, he is not asking readers to accept his fundamentals as fact, truth, proven points, or validated conclusions. He is presenting them as discussable issues. They are designed simply to promote discussion. And, certainly, with that in mind, they may well serve that purpose.
My issue with the fundamentals is simply that for any reader who has done any significant amount reading (or has a significant amount of life experience) will find Davis’s “fundamentals” as common knowledge. How do you discuss ideas that are fairly commonly accepted behaviors?
With all of this said, Davis is a fairly good writer, has a sense of humor, and offers a variety of interesting examples. If you are just looking for an enjoyable book that may keep your interest for a couple of hours, this is a worthwhile purchase. If you are looking for deep thinking, well-researched ideas, or insights that you won’t find in numerous other places, this book won’t help you at all. Davis, however, offers practical information that has the potential to remind you of a variety of interesting insights that may or may not offer you useful ways to look at daily behavior.
Why normal people do some crazy things: Nine fundamentals of human behaviors can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Normal-People-Some-Crazy-Things/dp/0981934307
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II , Ph.D.
The first thing that concerned me when I began this book was where the “nine fundamentals of human behaviors” originated. I searched the back of the book for notes, sources, or a bibliography and found none. I looked at the back of each chapter and even at the bottom of pages throughout the book and found none. I checked within paragraphs to see if citations were included, and I found none.
Then I found the answer. Davis says, “I wrote this book to share some of my perspectives about why people behave the way they do. I call these broad categories of motivations that underlie people’s actions, ‘Fundamentals’ of human behavior” (p. 5).
These are Davis’s perceptions that “gelled over time as I worked with clients” (p. 5). “In developing these Fundamentals, I attempted to categorize large variations of human behavior into simplified, understandable and usable concepts” (p. 5).
Davis’s nine fundamentals are: 1) “Everyone is terrified and therefore unreliable...until they’re not,” 2) “No one wants you to succeed too well or fail too badly,” 3) “Genuine interest in and attention to others is a rare commodity,” 4) “Most relationships, and their recurring problems, are based on power dynamics,” 5) “Everyone is rushing toward the white picket fence,” 6) “The Immature Masculine tries to run from or dominate the Feminine,” 7) Everyone points the finger,” 8) “We all have multiple personalities,” and 9) We are all addicted to intensity.”
“Ultimately,” Davis writes, “these Fundamentals are ‘one man’s opinion’ and they are intended to serve as a starting point for discussion” (p. 7). Discussion starters. The problem, as I see it (and this is just one man’s opinion!), is that there are no sources to support these fundamentals. Why couldn’t the author expand readers’ perspectives, reading opportunities, and research possibilities with “further reading”suggestions?
The answer could lie in one element: The author only has an M.A. He has not researched his own ideas. He has no fundamental knowledge base except his own. Throughout the book, to support this possibility, he includes shaded boxes labeled “Author’s personal experience,” “From actual conversation,” “Excerpt from coaching session,” and “From actual event.” These are his sources. I wonder if Davis has ever considered the fact that single instances, no matter how significant they may seem, do not prove a point, and, too, can be slanted in any direction to make or prove a point! They are not—by any stretch of the imagination—evidence!
Now, I want it to be clear that this is not an indictment of the book. After all, Davis admits what he has done. Further, he is not asking readers to accept his fundamentals as fact, truth, proven points, or validated conclusions. He is presenting them as discussable issues. They are designed simply to promote discussion. And, certainly, with that in mind, they may well serve that purpose.
My issue with the fundamentals is simply that for any reader who has done any significant amount reading (or has a significant amount of life experience) will find Davis’s “fundamentals” as common knowledge. How do you discuss ideas that are fairly commonly accepted behaviors?
With all of this said, Davis is a fairly good writer, has a sense of humor, and offers a variety of interesting examples. If you are just looking for an enjoyable book that may keep your interest for a couple of hours, this is a worthwhile purchase. If you are looking for deep thinking, well-researched ideas, or insights that you won’t find in numerous other places, this book won’t help you at all. Davis, however, offers practical information that has the potential to remind you of a variety of interesting insights that may or may not offer you useful ways to look at daily behavior.
Why normal people do some crazy things: Nine fundamentals of human behaviors can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Stress less: The new science that shows women how to rejuvenate the body and mind
By Thea Singer
http://www.amazon.com/Stress-Less-Science-Shows-Rejuvenate/dp/B004J8HXRM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1303237640&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Let me explain what led me to review this book, and you will see, if it hasn’t been obvious previously, the qualities—for me—that make a great book. First, I looked the author’s credentials: 30 years of writing about health and science, writer for The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, and The Boston Herald. Contributor to Natural Health and The Nation, among others.
For the second thing that led me to review this book, I looked at her “Selected Bibliography,” which occupies 44 pages of the book and which is filled with high quality books, sophisticated journals (e.g., Scientific American, Journal of Health and Social Behavior, The Journals of Gerontology, Tends in Cognitive Sciences, Human Ecology, Psychology and Aging, among many other outstanding resources). Each source was presented with impeccable accuracy. This book truly represents outstanding research.
Singer’s writing skill, too, is succinct, contagious, engaging, and easy to read and comprehend. This is not an erudite scientific treatise but a warm, friendly book written to and for readers. Her examples are excellent and well described, her targeted tests at the beginning of each chapter in the book (8 total) are scientifically proven measures of assessment and offer ways at the end of each one to calculate and interpret your score.
This is, indeed, the kind of book to which I am attracted. It offers valuable, scientific, information in a digestible manner. There is some technical material, to be sure, as the following sentence will attest:
“What the two discovered was the enzyme telomerase, which synthesizes telomeric DNA, dabbing additional repeats of the TTAGGG sequence onto shortening telomere ends, making up for the ones that get lost during division or otherwise . . .” (p. 45).
She goes on, however, to fully explain such information and even drives her points home in a climatic fashion: “Do not be surprised if someday soon your doctor orders a telomere-length or telomerase-level test along with—or perhaps even in place of—the current blood tests run for your yearly physical” (p. 45).
Singer’s chapter titles, “The Old Science of Stress,” “The New Science of Stress,” “Your Brain on Stress,” “Stress and Diet,” “Stress and Exercise,” “Stress and the Mind,” “Stress and Social Support,” and “Stress and Sleep,” reveal the comprehensiveness of this book as well as the practical applications she discusses.
Even though Singer wrote this book especially for women, most of the topic apply to men as well since it all relates to having a healthy lifestyle and doing those things that will make and keep you healthy.
This is an outstanding book—well-research, well-written, and well-presented. You cannot help but be affected in some way by her examples, her knowledge, and her information. Five stars out of five!
Stress less: The new science that shows women how to rejuvenate the body and mind can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Stress-Less-Science-Shows-Rejuvenate/dp/B004J8HXRM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1303237640&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Let me explain what led me to review this book, and you will see, if it hasn’t been obvious previously, the qualities—for me—that make a great book. First, I looked the author’s credentials: 30 years of writing about health and science, writer for The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, and The Boston Herald. Contributor to Natural Health and The Nation, among others.
For the second thing that led me to review this book, I looked at her “Selected Bibliography,” which occupies 44 pages of the book and which is filled with high quality books, sophisticated journals (e.g., Scientific American, Journal of Health and Social Behavior, The Journals of Gerontology, Tends in Cognitive Sciences, Human Ecology, Psychology and Aging, among many other outstanding resources). Each source was presented with impeccable accuracy. This book truly represents outstanding research.
Singer’s writing skill, too, is succinct, contagious, engaging, and easy to read and comprehend. This is not an erudite scientific treatise but a warm, friendly book written to and for readers. Her examples are excellent and well described, her targeted tests at the beginning of each chapter in the book (8 total) are scientifically proven measures of assessment and offer ways at the end of each one to calculate and interpret your score.
This is, indeed, the kind of book to which I am attracted. It offers valuable, scientific, information in a digestible manner. There is some technical material, to be sure, as the following sentence will attest:
“What the two discovered was the enzyme telomerase, which synthesizes telomeric DNA, dabbing additional repeats of the TTAGGG sequence onto shortening telomere ends, making up for the ones that get lost during division or otherwise . . .” (p. 45).
She goes on, however, to fully explain such information and even drives her points home in a climatic fashion: “Do not be surprised if someday soon your doctor orders a telomere-length or telomerase-level test along with—or perhaps even in place of—the current blood tests run for your yearly physical” (p. 45).
Singer’s chapter titles, “The Old Science of Stress,” “The New Science of Stress,” “Your Brain on Stress,” “Stress and Diet,” “Stress and Exercise,” “Stress and the Mind,” “Stress and Social Support,” and “Stress and Sleep,” reveal the comprehensiveness of this book as well as the practical applications she discusses.
Even though Singer wrote this book especially for women, most of the topic apply to men as well since it all relates to having a healthy lifestyle and doing those things that will make and keep you healthy.
This is an outstanding book—well-research, well-written, and well-presented. You cannot help but be affected in some way by her examples, her knowledge, and her information. Five stars out of five!
Stress less: The new science that shows women how to rejuvenate the body and mind can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Flourish: A visionary new understanding of happiness and well-being
By Martin E. P. Seligman
http://www.amazon.com/Flourish-Visionary-Understanding-Happiness-Well-being/dp/1439190755
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
For this book, Seligman has 49 pages of notes, a 28-page index, and a 22-page appendix (“Signature Strengths Test”). Out of a 349-page book, tat leaves 241 pages of text material.
The book is divided into two parts, “A New Positive Psychology,” and “The Ways to Flourish,” and each part has five chapters. The first five chapters cover, 1) What is well-being?, 2) Creating your happiness, 3) The dirty little secret of drugs and therapy, 4) Teaching well-being, and 5) Positive education: Teaching well-being to young people. The final five chapters cover 6) GRIT, Character and Achievement, 7) Army Strong: Comprehensive soldier fitness, 8) Turning trauma into growth, 9) Positive physical health, and 10) The politics and economics of well-being.
Seligman begins by saying, “This book will help you flourish” (p. 1), and to support his point throughout the book, he uses “careful science: statistical tests, validated questionnaires, thoroughly research exercises, and large, representative samples” (p. 1). “In contrast to pop psychology and the bulk of self-improvement,” he continues, “my writings are believable because of the underlying science” (p. 1).
Those readers who are looking for a quick recipe that will help them flourish may be disappointed. It is a similar disappointment to those readers who read Edgar Willis’s How to be funny on purpose (And Then Some, 2005) looking for a quick formula for being funny. Both books have extraordinary depth and breadth in addition to offering what readers may be seeking.
I write all of the above information so you, the reader, will know what you are getting when you purchase this book. What I have not as yet said, however, is that Seligman is a terrific writer. You can easily and quickly become engrossed with the detailed stories he writes. If you are at all interested in the influence of editors on a writer’s works or how a research scientist changes positions, his Chapter 1, “What is Well-Being” provides details.
Regarding his change of positions, he writes about Senia Maymin, a student in his master’s level “Introduction to Positive Psychology” class, who challenged his point of view. He writes, “Beginning in that October class in Huntsman Hall, I changed my mind about what positive psychology is. I also changed my mind about what the elements of positive psychology are and what the goal of positive psychology should be” (p. 12).
Now, as a lay reader with little background in psychology, all of this information about his theory and how his theory changed may be boring. I, however, found it riveting. That may be because I took a number of psychology classes, that I use many of the psychological-research findings in my writings, or, too, I am a college-textbook writer who is constantly faced (by my textbook reviewers) with challenges to the ideas I write about. It is just such challenges that cause me to re-think and even alter what I write.
Those of you who have a life characterized by well-being or who have read a great deal of well-being literature (there are numerous possible sources in the “Notes” section of this book), may not find a whole lot of information, suggestions, or well-being prompts that are new here—although reminders and reinforcements aren’t bad! I found the exercises interesting and fun.
I found Seligman’s explanations about his research engaging. Most readers may, too, find his descriptions lengthy and a bit tedious; that is why it can be stated clearly—just as Seligman warned in Chapter 1—this is not a pop psych book. But, if you enjoy a deep-reading experience, if you find pleasure in looking behind the scenes, and if you relish the musings of a research scientist, you will love this book. Just look at this one sentence alone: “Psychotherapy and drugs as they now are used are half baked” (p. 53). What he argues here is that they may remove the disabling conditions of life, but they seldom build the enabling conditions of life (p. 53).
This is truly a book for serious readers. The way, for example, he analyzes the philosophy and approach of Wittgenstein, Popper, and Penn (pages 56-62), discusses the ingredients of applied positive psychology (pages 66-69), the Penn Resilency Program (PRP) (pp. 81-85), what intelligence is (pp. 106-114), GRIT–or the combination of very high persistence and high passion for an objective--- (pages 115-124), are excellent instances of when seriousness is necessary. There are many such examples.
There is no doubt that serious readers will find this book interesting—even captivating (from his heavy use of engaging examples alone). It makes a valuable contribution and may well serve as another benchmark (in addition to his book Authentic Happiness, 2002), in the pursuit of those precise ingredients that allow us to understand happiness and well-being.
Flourish: A visionary new understanding of happiness and well-being can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Flourish-Visionary-Understanding-Happiness-Well-being/dp/1439190755
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
For this book, Seligman has 49 pages of notes, a 28-page index, and a 22-page appendix (“Signature Strengths Test”). Out of a 349-page book, tat leaves 241 pages of text material.
The book is divided into two parts, “A New Positive Psychology,” and “The Ways to Flourish,” and each part has five chapters. The first five chapters cover, 1) What is well-being?, 2) Creating your happiness, 3) The dirty little secret of drugs and therapy, 4) Teaching well-being, and 5) Positive education: Teaching well-being to young people. The final five chapters cover 6) GRIT, Character and Achievement, 7) Army Strong: Comprehensive soldier fitness, 8) Turning trauma into growth, 9) Positive physical health, and 10) The politics and economics of well-being.
Seligman begins by saying, “This book will help you flourish” (p. 1), and to support his point throughout the book, he uses “careful science: statistical tests, validated questionnaires, thoroughly research exercises, and large, representative samples” (p. 1). “In contrast to pop psychology and the bulk of self-improvement,” he continues, “my writings are believable because of the underlying science” (p. 1).
Those readers who are looking for a quick recipe that will help them flourish may be disappointed. It is a similar disappointment to those readers who read Edgar Willis’s How to be funny on purpose (And Then Some, 2005) looking for a quick formula for being funny. Both books have extraordinary depth and breadth in addition to offering what readers may be seeking.
I write all of the above information so you, the reader, will know what you are getting when you purchase this book. What I have not as yet said, however, is that Seligman is a terrific writer. You can easily and quickly become engrossed with the detailed stories he writes. If you are at all interested in the influence of editors on a writer’s works or how a research scientist changes positions, his Chapter 1, “What is Well-Being” provides details.
Regarding his change of positions, he writes about Senia Maymin, a student in his master’s level “Introduction to Positive Psychology” class, who challenged his point of view. He writes, “Beginning in that October class in Huntsman Hall, I changed my mind about what positive psychology is. I also changed my mind about what the elements of positive psychology are and what the goal of positive psychology should be” (p. 12).
Now, as a lay reader with little background in psychology, all of this information about his theory and how his theory changed may be boring. I, however, found it riveting. That may be because I took a number of psychology classes, that I use many of the psychological-research findings in my writings, or, too, I am a college-textbook writer who is constantly faced (by my textbook reviewers) with challenges to the ideas I write about. It is just such challenges that cause me to re-think and even alter what I write.
Those of you who have a life characterized by well-being or who have read a great deal of well-being literature (there are numerous possible sources in the “Notes” section of this book), may not find a whole lot of information, suggestions, or well-being prompts that are new here—although reminders and reinforcements aren’t bad! I found the exercises interesting and fun.
I found Seligman’s explanations about his research engaging. Most readers may, too, find his descriptions lengthy and a bit tedious; that is why it can be stated clearly—just as Seligman warned in Chapter 1—this is not a pop psych book. But, if you enjoy a deep-reading experience, if you find pleasure in looking behind the scenes, and if you relish the musings of a research scientist, you will love this book. Just look at this one sentence alone: “Psychotherapy and drugs as they now are used are half baked” (p. 53). What he argues here is that they may remove the disabling conditions of life, but they seldom build the enabling conditions of life (p. 53).
This is truly a book for serious readers. The way, for example, he analyzes the philosophy and approach of Wittgenstein, Popper, and Penn (pages 56-62), discusses the ingredients of applied positive psychology (pages 66-69), the Penn Resilency Program (PRP) (pp. 81-85), what intelligence is (pp. 106-114), GRIT–or the combination of very high persistence and high passion for an objective--- (pages 115-124), are excellent instances of when seriousness is necessary. There are many such examples.
There is no doubt that serious readers will find this book interesting—even captivating (from his heavy use of engaging examples alone). It makes a valuable contribution and may well serve as another benchmark (in addition to his book Authentic Happiness, 2002), in the pursuit of those precise ingredients that allow us to understand happiness and well-being.
Flourish: A visionary new understanding of happiness and well-being can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Retirement: breakthrough: The safe, secure way to guaranteed income you can’t outlive — in any economy
By Dick Duff
http://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Breakthrough-Guaranteed-Outlive-Economy/dp/1608320251
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a terrific book.
It is true that it has a direct application to where I currently am in life, and relevancy is important when reviewing books, but Duff really speaks directly to readers with thorough explanations, explicit details, easy-to-understand examples, and material that has to impact almost everyone in life — those just graduating from college, beginning a professional career, nearing retirement, of already retired.
Now, I have to admit, I am not an economist, a CPA, a financial advisor, a banker, or anyone else in possession of information like this. What that means is simple: Much of this information was new to me. I’ve done little investigation on my own, and I have dumped my SEP (self-employed pension) into one account, and I let my investment advisor guide me in what to do every time money becomes available. That is precisely why I found much of this information eye-opening and worthwhile. I plan to make use of Duff’s suggestions at my earliest convenience (whenever that occurs!).
Before embarking on this book, let me advise readers with one insight: There are lots and lots and lots of numbers here. There were times when I had a hard time following all of Duff’s mathematics; however, with greater concentration, and given more time, I am certain I can master his information. It really isn’t that complex, it just requires some time to allow it all to digest.
What I especially enjoyed was Duff’s frankness and honesty. He wasn’t afraid to tell you what not to do, which were bad moves to make, or unwise decisions and investments.
Duff’s forty-five years of professional experience as a financial and estate planner becomes clear early in the book. I think, too, that if readers are interested in taking control of their retirement income, that is, that their retirement income comes on time all the time, then this book is a “must read.”
You will not only learn how much retirement income you are going to need — the formula is provided and sample calculations are offered — but you will learn how to withdraw money from life insurance policies, use annuities to optimize retirement income, make maximum use of assets you already have, as well as shelter your income from unwanted claimants and unnecessary taxes. Duff’s ideas are solid, explained effectively, and what we all need.
If it isn’t obvious already, I highly recommend this book. It is well-written. There are moments of humor, and the author’s personality comes across in a delightful, quiet manner. He includes additional resources as well as a state-by-state asset protection guide. And the book is comprehensive and thorough. Having never read any other finance book or related material, I have nothing with which to compare this book, but I think this one may become a benchmark in this field.
Retirement: breakthrough: The safe, secure way to guaranteed income you can’t outlive — in any economy can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Breakthrough-Guaranteed-Outlive-Economy/dp/1608320251
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
This is a terrific book.
It is true that it has a direct application to where I currently am in life, and relevancy is important when reviewing books, but Duff really speaks directly to readers with thorough explanations, explicit details, easy-to-understand examples, and material that has to impact almost everyone in life — those just graduating from college, beginning a professional career, nearing retirement, of already retired.
Now, I have to admit, I am not an economist, a CPA, a financial advisor, a banker, or anyone else in possession of information like this. What that means is simple: Much of this information was new to me. I’ve done little investigation on my own, and I have dumped my SEP (self-employed pension) into one account, and I let my investment advisor guide me in what to do every time money becomes available. That is precisely why I found much of this information eye-opening and worthwhile. I plan to make use of Duff’s suggestions at my earliest convenience (whenever that occurs!).
Before embarking on this book, let me advise readers with one insight: There are lots and lots and lots of numbers here. There were times when I had a hard time following all of Duff’s mathematics; however, with greater concentration, and given more time, I am certain I can master his information. It really isn’t that complex, it just requires some time to allow it all to digest.
What I especially enjoyed was Duff’s frankness and honesty. He wasn’t afraid to tell you what not to do, which were bad moves to make, or unwise decisions and investments.
Duff’s forty-five years of professional experience as a financial and estate planner becomes clear early in the book. I think, too, that if readers are interested in taking control of their retirement income, that is, that their retirement income comes on time all the time, then this book is a “must read.”
You will not only learn how much retirement income you are going to need — the formula is provided and sample calculations are offered — but you will learn how to withdraw money from life insurance policies, use annuities to optimize retirement income, make maximum use of assets you already have, as well as shelter your income from unwanted claimants and unnecessary taxes. Duff’s ideas are solid, explained effectively, and what we all need.
If it isn’t obvious already, I highly recommend this book. It is well-written. There are moments of humor, and the author’s personality comes across in a delightful, quiet manner. He includes additional resources as well as a state-by-state asset protection guide. And the book is comprehensive and thorough. Having never read any other finance book or related material, I have nothing with which to compare this book, but I think this one may become a benchmark in this field.
Retirement: breakthrough: The safe, secure way to guaranteed income you can’t outlive — in any economy can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, June 4, 2012
The moral landscape: How science can determine human values
By Sam Harris
http://www.amazon.com/Moral-Landscape-Science-Determine-Values/product-reviews/1439171211/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_helpful?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
There are several things you need to know about this book before picking it up. First, the book “is based, in part, on the dissertation [Harris] wrote for [his] Ph.D. in neuroscience at the University of California, Los Angeles” (p. 193). That suggests the sophistication of the material, approach, language, and argument.
The second thing you need to know is that there are forty pages of small-font “References.” This is fairly typical (perhaps a bit more than normal for most) for a dissertation. Also, there are forty pages of small-font “Notes” as well. In other words, this is a highly researched, highly documented work. Harris is well-grounded in both research and theory. That leaves (out of 291 pages total) only 191 pages of text (argument).
The third thing you need to know before picking up this book is that, in addition to Harris’s dissertation committee at UCLA, “several outside scholars and scientists reviewed early drafts of this book. Paul Churchland, Daniel Dennett, Owen Flanagan, and Steven Pinter read the text, in whole or in part, and offered extremely helpful notes” (p. 194). Also, a few sections of the book were read by an even larger circle of scientists and writers: including Jerry Coyne, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Owen Flanagan, Anthony Grayling, Christopher Hitchens, and Steven Pinker” (p. 194). Why is this important? It adds credibility to Harris’s argument, and, as Harris himself notes, “. . . with friends like these, it has become increasingly difficult to say something stupid” (p. 194).
R. Dale of California gave the book two stars out of five at Amazon.com, and his main point is well taken: “It's not a compelling read for someone of my intellect and I have a Masters degree. It may be great for a PHD candidate in philosophy but not for the other 99% of us.” I found the book challenging, and following the development of Harris’s argument is formidable but stimulating. Although it may take effort to stay with it, the effort has a wonderful and rewarding result — acceptance of the daring but brilliant and provocative thesis that religions should NOThave a monopoly on morality. Remember, he wrote his dissertation for a group of neuroscientists at UCLA, and prior to obtaining his Ph.D., Harris obtained a degree in philosophy as well. So, you could easily ask, what would you expect from a philosophical neuroscientist?
I am one convinced by Harris’s position and argument (that science can be used to explain morality), but what I liked most about this book is watching such a gifted person present his ideas and develop his position. If you like academese, if you like reading a scholar present sophisticated ideas, and if you like reading provocative (mind-stretching) material, this is an ideal choice. This is not an arm- or rocking-chair book, it is instead a straight-back, hard-seat, old, rough, oak, schoolroom chair.
I truly believe that the arguments are cogent, well-reasoned, and well-clarified by Harris. They are there and plain to see if everyone (or anyone?) can be open-minded enough to understand, and these ideas are hard to refute. Also, I found the latest neurological research in human behavior interesting and informative, and I firmly believe, based on the well-reasoned and well-developed argument Harris presents, that such research, and its findings, are clearly superior to religious dogma as a basis for moral clarity. Of course, for me, that doesn’t require a high level of sophistication to prove. For me, it is clear at face value, but Harris does such a brilliant job of presenting the case.
This book is revolutionary — groundbreaking --- and it has the true potential of changing the moral landscape, if it hasn’t done so already. If nothing else, it will challenge you to think, but if it has the impact Harris hopes, it will change the way you think. He says, “This book was written in the hope that as science develops, we will recognize its applications to the most pressing questions of human existence. For nearly a century, the moral relativism of science has given faith-based religion — that great engine of ignorance and bigotry — a nearly uncontested claim to being the only universal framework for moral wisdom. . . . few people seem to recognize the dangers posed by thinking that there are no true answers to moral questions” (p.191). The last line of the book reads, “And I am convinced that merely admitting this [that there is a way to know about meaning, morality, and values in principle] will transform the way we think about human happiness and the public good” (p. 191).
The Moral Landscape: How Science Can Determine Human Values can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Moral-Landscape-Science-Determine-Values/product-reviews/1439171211/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_helpful?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
There are several things you need to know about this book before picking it up. First, the book “is based, in part, on the dissertation [Harris] wrote for [his] Ph.D. in neuroscience at the University of California, Los Angeles” (p. 193). That suggests the sophistication of the material, approach, language, and argument.
The second thing you need to know is that there are forty pages of small-font “References.” This is fairly typical (perhaps a bit more than normal for most) for a dissertation. Also, there are forty pages of small-font “Notes” as well. In other words, this is a highly researched, highly documented work. Harris is well-grounded in both research and theory. That leaves (out of 291 pages total) only 191 pages of text (argument).
The third thing you need to know before picking up this book is that, in addition to Harris’s dissertation committee at UCLA, “several outside scholars and scientists reviewed early drafts of this book. Paul Churchland, Daniel Dennett, Owen Flanagan, and Steven Pinter read the text, in whole or in part, and offered extremely helpful notes” (p. 194). Also, a few sections of the book were read by an even larger circle of scientists and writers: including Jerry Coyne, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Owen Flanagan, Anthony Grayling, Christopher Hitchens, and Steven Pinker” (p. 194). Why is this important? It adds credibility to Harris’s argument, and, as Harris himself notes, “. . . with friends like these, it has become increasingly difficult to say something stupid” (p. 194).
R. Dale of California gave the book two stars out of five at Amazon.com, and his main point is well taken: “It's not a compelling read for someone of my intellect and I have a Masters degree. It may be great for a PHD candidate in philosophy but not for the other 99% of us.” I found the book challenging, and following the development of Harris’s argument is formidable but stimulating. Although it may take effort to stay with it, the effort has a wonderful and rewarding result — acceptance of the daring but brilliant and provocative thesis that religions should NOThave a monopoly on morality. Remember, he wrote his dissertation for a group of neuroscientists at UCLA, and prior to obtaining his Ph.D., Harris obtained a degree in philosophy as well. So, you could easily ask, what would you expect from a philosophical neuroscientist?
I am one convinced by Harris’s position and argument (that science can be used to explain morality), but what I liked most about this book is watching such a gifted person present his ideas and develop his position. If you like academese, if you like reading a scholar present sophisticated ideas, and if you like reading provocative (mind-stretching) material, this is an ideal choice. This is not an arm- or rocking-chair book, it is instead a straight-back, hard-seat, old, rough, oak, schoolroom chair.
I truly believe that the arguments are cogent, well-reasoned, and well-clarified by Harris. They are there and plain to see if everyone (or anyone?) can be open-minded enough to understand, and these ideas are hard to refute. Also, I found the latest neurological research in human behavior interesting and informative, and I firmly believe, based on the well-reasoned and well-developed argument Harris presents, that such research, and its findings, are clearly superior to religious dogma as a basis for moral clarity. Of course, for me, that doesn’t require a high level of sophistication to prove. For me, it is clear at face value, but Harris does such a brilliant job of presenting the case.
This book is revolutionary — groundbreaking --- and it has the true potential of changing the moral landscape, if it hasn’t done so already. If nothing else, it will challenge you to think, but if it has the impact Harris hopes, it will change the way you think. He says, “This book was written in the hope that as science develops, we will recognize its applications to the most pressing questions of human existence. For nearly a century, the moral relativism of science has given faith-based religion — that great engine of ignorance and bigotry — a nearly uncontested claim to being the only universal framework for moral wisdom. . . . few people seem to recognize the dangers posed by thinking that there are no true answers to moral questions” (p.191). The last line of the book reads, “And I am convinced that merely admitting this [that there is a way to know about meaning, morality, and values in principle] will transform the way we think about human happiness and the public good” (p. 191).
The Moral Landscape: How Science Can Determine Human Values can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, May 28, 2012
The truth about grief: The myth of its five stages and the new science of loss
By Ruth Davis Konigsberg
http://www.amazon.com/Truth-About-Grief-Stages-Science/dp/1439148333/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297097931&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Konigsberg discusses the way the five stages of grief provided by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in the book, On Death and Dying, have become a cultural touchstone and, thus, embedded in our everyday lexicon and a mainstay of pop psychology. I first learned about the stages quite early and incorporated them into one of the editions of my book, Understanding Interpersonal Communication (Harper/Collins), and I talked about the stages, too, when lecturing in my interpersonal communication classes. They weren’t weighty, philosophical discussions but just an introduction to a way of thinking about (interpreting?) grief.
Konigsberg writes well, and she supports her ideas effectively. There are 200 pages of text and 41 pages of “Notes.”
I loved the way Konigsberg notches her successes. That is, she eats away at various theories and books (like The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion), morsel by morsel like a mouse eating a hunk of cheese. By compelling her adversaries to the dust bin, she clears the way for acceptance of her ideas and point of view.
“Like Kübler-Ross’s original five [stages of grief], these additional stages [proposed by other writers about the process] were all based on anecdotes and personal experience, not methodologically sound surveys” (p. 70).
For my purposes (as a motivational speaker and writer), I found Konigsberg’s emphasis on optimism and self-preparation to deal with grief supportive of my own position:
“Resilient grievers,” she writes on page 54, “appear better equipped to accept death as a fact of life and tend to have a more positive worldview. Chronic grievers seem less confident about their coping abilities and more dependent on the relationship to the deceased. (A lack of social support and financial resources also plays a role.” These differences become apparent within the first month and are good predictors of how someone will handle the loss over time, with early success seeming to set the course toward greater well-being, while early difficulties — intense negative emotions such as the desire to die or frequent crying — are associated with poor coping after two years” (p. 54).
I found Konigsberg’s Chapter 4, “The Making of a Bestseller,” particularly interesting (being a writer myself). How Kübler-Ross’s book, On Death and Dying, came to be published was fascinating stuff. Konigsberg writes, “The way Kübler-Ross described it, the stages came to her suddenly, almost as if through divine inspiration” (p. 96). The chapter is, basically, a biography of Kübler-Ross’s life.
People like stages because they are clear, specific, easy-to-follow, and easy-to-remember. But, as Chris Feudtner of the Penn Center for Bioethics, a pediatrician who has treated hundreds of dying children at the Children’s Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and who, in addition to his medical degree, has a Ph.D. in the history and sociology of science, has said, according to Konigsberg:
“The way he looks at it, any form of generalized treatment for grief is likely to miss its target. “When you’re trying to treat someone, you’re trying to mechanistically make them better,’ he explains. ‘If it’s something simple, like pneumococcus infects your lungs, we can kill that germ, but with something like grief, we don’t know the mechanism. The other thing is that people have resources like resilience and strength and will just get better on their own, and it’s very hard to show a treatment effect if most people just get better anyway. Most people spontaneously recover from six months to a year” (p. 124).
Quoting psychologist and grief researcher Toni Bisconti, now at the University of Akron, in Ohio, as reported by Konigsberg:
“Grief is anything but linear [as in Kübler-Ross’s stages], and my data showing consistent ups and downs are obviously in conflict with stage theory,’ Bisconti told me. ‘Stage theories are also conducive to self-fulfilling prophecies and confirmation biases. In other words, if I lose my partner/spouse and I am angry on a given day, I’ll think I’m in the anger stage and discount the fact that also on that day I might be sad, distraught, even happy at a given moment” (p. 72).
I found this book intriguing, enlightening, and thoroughly engaging. For those involved in, or who know others who are going through, the grieving process, it is a must read.
The truth about grief: The myth of its five stages and the new science of loss can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Truth-About-Grief-Stages-Science/dp/1439148333/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297097931&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Konigsberg discusses the way the five stages of grief provided by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in the book, On Death and Dying, have become a cultural touchstone and, thus, embedded in our everyday lexicon and a mainstay of pop psychology. I first learned about the stages quite early and incorporated them into one of the editions of my book, Understanding Interpersonal Communication (Harper/Collins), and I talked about the stages, too, when lecturing in my interpersonal communication classes. They weren’t weighty, philosophical discussions but just an introduction to a way of thinking about (interpreting?) grief.
Konigsberg writes well, and she supports her ideas effectively. There are 200 pages of text and 41 pages of “Notes.”
I loved the way Konigsberg notches her successes. That is, she eats away at various theories and books (like The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion), morsel by morsel like a mouse eating a hunk of cheese. By compelling her adversaries to the dust bin, she clears the way for acceptance of her ideas and point of view.
“Like Kübler-Ross’s original five [stages of grief], these additional stages [proposed by other writers about the process] were all based on anecdotes and personal experience, not methodologically sound surveys” (p. 70).
For my purposes (as a motivational speaker and writer), I found Konigsberg’s emphasis on optimism and self-preparation to deal with grief supportive of my own position:
“Resilient grievers,” she writes on page 54, “appear better equipped to accept death as a fact of life and tend to have a more positive worldview. Chronic grievers seem less confident about their coping abilities and more dependent on the relationship to the deceased. (A lack of social support and financial resources also plays a role.” These differences become apparent within the first month and are good predictors of how someone will handle the loss over time, with early success seeming to set the course toward greater well-being, while early difficulties — intense negative emotions such as the desire to die or frequent crying — are associated with poor coping after two years” (p. 54).
I found Konigsberg’s Chapter 4, “The Making of a Bestseller,” particularly interesting (being a writer myself). How Kübler-Ross’s book, On Death and Dying, came to be published was fascinating stuff. Konigsberg writes, “The way Kübler-Ross described it, the stages came to her suddenly, almost as if through divine inspiration” (p. 96). The chapter is, basically, a biography of Kübler-Ross’s life.
People like stages because they are clear, specific, easy-to-follow, and easy-to-remember. But, as Chris Feudtner of the Penn Center for Bioethics, a pediatrician who has treated hundreds of dying children at the Children’s Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and who, in addition to his medical degree, has a Ph.D. in the history and sociology of science, has said, according to Konigsberg:
“The way he looks at it, any form of generalized treatment for grief is likely to miss its target. “When you’re trying to treat someone, you’re trying to mechanistically make them better,’ he explains. ‘If it’s something simple, like pneumococcus infects your lungs, we can kill that germ, but with something like grief, we don’t know the mechanism. The other thing is that people have resources like resilience and strength and will just get better on their own, and it’s very hard to show a treatment effect if most people just get better anyway. Most people spontaneously recover from six months to a year” (p. 124).
Quoting psychologist and grief researcher Toni Bisconti, now at the University of Akron, in Ohio, as reported by Konigsberg:
“Grief is anything but linear [as in Kübler-Ross’s stages], and my data showing consistent ups and downs are obviously in conflict with stage theory,’ Bisconti told me. ‘Stage theories are also conducive to self-fulfilling prophecies and confirmation biases. In other words, if I lose my partner/spouse and I am angry on a given day, I’ll think I’m in the anger stage and discount the fact that also on that day I might be sad, distraught, even happy at a given moment” (p. 72).
I found this book intriguing, enlightening, and thoroughly engaging. For those involved in, or who know others who are going through, the grieving process, it is a must read.
The truth about grief: The myth of its five stages and the new science of loss can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Art of marriage: A guide to living life as two
By Catherine Blyth
http://www.amazon.com/Aftershock-Next-Economy-Americas-Future/dp/0307592812/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297014166&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
First and foremost, please realize at the outset that Catherine Blyth is English; thus, you will find scattered throughout this little book delightful English terms and turns of phrase. If for no other reason, I liked this book for her graceful, charming use of language. Examine, for example (and there are many) this delightful paragraph:
“Sadly, for all couples there comes a moment when sex is a dilemma. When you find yourselves arguing about who did not wash up, and little by little, lust’s soufflé sinks in the cool air of Getting On with It. At this point, some fear that they have married the wrong person. But this not a time to retreat to the baked bean-sequined defeat of a tracksuit. Love is not dead; better to consider that its three dimensions have been absorbed, and the long game of marriage has now begun” (p. 119).
Call it unnecessary gibberish, or hoity-toity pretentiousness, if you will, but I wonder if any other author could or would write like this? If you don’t like this kind of writing, avoid this book! (Many of the examples she uses, too, are from English history and royalty.)
I found the gray boxes inserted in chapters interesting. They were enjoyable to read and offered additional insights and information. Necessary? Of course not. But fun.
Another thing I found interesting about this book is Blyth’s use of examples — especially those from history. Although there is a “Selected Bibliography” of seven pages, the sources she uses represent her very broad reading of books, many as you would suspect published by English presses. There are no footnotes, but she gives general references for most of her quotations. Quotations occur often.
Something readers must understand about this book is that we’re not talking about well-researched, documented, scientifically-based advice here. We’re talking instead about “a writer, columnist, and editor” (from the back flyleaf) offering her views and values. Nothing more. Oh, she may say something like, “Contemporary experts find that two dimensions matter in parenting . . . ,” but there is no footnote for such a statement, and you have to take Blyth’s word for its veracity. There is nothing wrong with this. At some points she will offer a citation, as in the following:
“Marriage is the best welfare plan that money cannot buy. Its economics of scale make us richer in the long run (as noted above, unmarried women were 86 percent poorer, and bachelors 61 percent poorer than the married or widowed, in 1992's U.S. Health and Retirement Study)” (p. 189).
Many readers need nothing more, and her brief notations 1) are sufficient, 2) do not get in the way of a good read, and 3) add to her credibility sufficiently enough to make her observations and advice sound. I have no quarrel with this; however, having done the research and read as widely as she has, it would be nice to have the footnotes. (She could even have placed them online at the book’s web site as some authors have done.)
To give you even more of a sample of what is in the book and how Blyth writes, I have selected this piece from Chapter 11, “The A to Z of Marriage”:
“Like its companion antisocial activities — pocket billiards, biting nails, burping, farting — we tend to be particularly annoyed by spouses’ nose picking. Not because it is not fun but because it is fun only for one. It is also a poor spectator sport. To do it shows a lover how relaxed you are in their company, which is nice as far as it goes. But in a bad mood, the sight of that unself-conscious finger, winkling it furry cavity, may be an unwelcome invasion of privacy, or even suggest that its owner does not care if you do not fancy them, since they no longer fancy you” (p. 240).
Notice her use of the words “winkling” and “fancy.” Also, notice that “we tend to be particularly annoyed” comes strictly from her observations — nothing more. And if there is a source, it is not provided.
When all is said and done, I enjoyed the book. She tells good stories, offers interesting quotations, and writes in a lively, entertaining style. She has a subtle, but delightful, sense of humor that is engaging — and, as I said, I love her language. Four stars out of five!
Art of marriage: A guide to living life as two can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Aftershock-Next-Economy-Americas-Future/dp/0307592812/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297014166&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
First and foremost, please realize at the outset that Catherine Blyth is English; thus, you will find scattered throughout this little book delightful English terms and turns of phrase. If for no other reason, I liked this book for her graceful, charming use of language. Examine, for example (and there are many) this delightful paragraph:
“Sadly, for all couples there comes a moment when sex is a dilemma. When you find yourselves arguing about who did not wash up, and little by little, lust’s soufflé sinks in the cool air of Getting On with It. At this point, some fear that they have married the wrong person. But this not a time to retreat to the baked bean-sequined defeat of a tracksuit. Love is not dead; better to consider that its three dimensions have been absorbed, and the long game of marriage has now begun” (p. 119).
Call it unnecessary gibberish, or hoity-toity pretentiousness, if you will, but I wonder if any other author could or would write like this? If you don’t like this kind of writing, avoid this book! (Many of the examples she uses, too, are from English history and royalty.)
I found the gray boxes inserted in chapters interesting. They were enjoyable to read and offered additional insights and information. Necessary? Of course not. But fun.
Another thing I found interesting about this book is Blyth’s use of examples — especially those from history. Although there is a “Selected Bibliography” of seven pages, the sources she uses represent her very broad reading of books, many as you would suspect published by English presses. There are no footnotes, but she gives general references for most of her quotations. Quotations occur often.
Something readers must understand about this book is that we’re not talking about well-researched, documented, scientifically-based advice here. We’re talking instead about “a writer, columnist, and editor” (from the back flyleaf) offering her views and values. Nothing more. Oh, she may say something like, “Contemporary experts find that two dimensions matter in parenting . . . ,” but there is no footnote for such a statement, and you have to take Blyth’s word for its veracity. There is nothing wrong with this. At some points she will offer a citation, as in the following:
“Marriage is the best welfare plan that money cannot buy. Its economics of scale make us richer in the long run (as noted above, unmarried women were 86 percent poorer, and bachelors 61 percent poorer than the married or widowed, in 1992's U.S. Health and Retirement Study)” (p. 189).
Many readers need nothing more, and her brief notations 1) are sufficient, 2) do not get in the way of a good read, and 3) add to her credibility sufficiently enough to make her observations and advice sound. I have no quarrel with this; however, having done the research and read as widely as she has, it would be nice to have the footnotes. (She could even have placed them online at the book’s web site as some authors have done.)
To give you even more of a sample of what is in the book and how Blyth writes, I have selected this piece from Chapter 11, “The A to Z of Marriage”:
“Like its companion antisocial activities — pocket billiards, biting nails, burping, farting — we tend to be particularly annoyed by spouses’ nose picking. Not because it is not fun but because it is fun only for one. It is also a poor spectator sport. To do it shows a lover how relaxed you are in their company, which is nice as far as it goes. But in a bad mood, the sight of that unself-conscious finger, winkling it furry cavity, may be an unwelcome invasion of privacy, or even suggest that its owner does not care if you do not fancy them, since they no longer fancy you” (p. 240).
Notice her use of the words “winkling” and “fancy.” Also, notice that “we tend to be particularly annoyed” comes strictly from her observations — nothing more. And if there is a source, it is not provided.
When all is said and done, I enjoyed the book. She tells good stories, offers interesting quotations, and writes in a lively, entertaining style. She has a subtle, but delightful, sense of humor that is engaging — and, as I said, I love her language. Four stars out of five!
Art of marriage: A guide to living life as two can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Aftershock: The next economy and America’s future
By Robert B. Reich
http://www.amazon.com/Aftershock-Next-Economy-Americas-Future/dp/0307592812/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297014166&sr=1-1
Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I am not an economist, but I took a basic economics class as an undergraduate at the University of Michigan. One does not need an economics background to understand (or appreciate) this book. The reason it helps is simply that it provides a useful backdrop or context for Reich’s ideas. (As a university education assists all students and graduates in offering challenging ideas for growth, development, and change, most all college courses prove useful in a variety of situations. This is just one more of them.)
I loved Reich’s book. First, it proves beyond a shadow of a doubt — as numerous economists have proven over and over (including, of course, Paul Krugman) — that top-down, trickle-down economics is a sham. It didn’t work under Reagan, it isn’t working now; it hasn’t worked at any time in history, and it won’t work in the future. It is bad economics. As “A larger and larger portion of the economy’s winnings [go] to people at the top” (p. 3), the economy grows steadily worse. “This is the heart of America’s ongoing economic predicament” (p. 3). This is one of the backbone tenets of this book, and Reich puts it on the first page of his “Introduction.”
Second, it supports a thesis I have often espoused: “redistributing income from rich to poor” makes good economical sense (p. 35). “ . . . Marriner Eccles [Reich has a chapter devoted to him because Eccles chaired the Federal Reserve Board from November 1934 until April 1948 — crucial years in the history of the American economy, and the world’s” (p. 11)] and John Maynard Keynes saw a broader economic justification for organizing the economy in such a way that the rich did not accumulate a disproportionate share to begin with: the need to maintain enough total demand” (p. 35).
The reason this book should be read by ALL Americans has to do with Reich’s basic argument: “. . . that our fundamentals are profoundly skewed, that the Great Recession was but the latest and largest outgrowth of an increasingly distorted distribution of income, and that we will have to choose, inevitably, between deepening discontent (and its ever nastier politics) and fundamental social and economic reform. I believe,” writes Reich, “that we simply must — and will — choose the latter” (p. 5).
There are 12½ pages of notes and only 146 pages of text material. Thus, this is a well-supported, well-written book that is both challenging (thought-provoking), and engaging (attention-holding).
I appreciated Reich’s honesty in assessing counter arguments to his own. For example, “Some argue that there was simply no need for government intervention [to prevent the Great Recession of 2007]. The economy did better on its own, those people say, without so much government and with lower taxes on the rich. They point,” writes Reich, “to the great expansion of the 1980s and the long recovery of the 1990s, and to the wildly exuberant bull market of the era. . . This argument is bunk,” he says. “It equates the stock market with the economy, and turns a blind eye to the revocation of the basic bargain. The argument does not acknowledge the consequences for an economy when the middle class lacks the means to buy with it produces” (p. 57).
If you ever listen to Robert Reich’s contributions to MSNBC (he is one of the major political economists they consult because he was labor secretary during the Clinton administration, and is currently professor of public policy at U.C. Berkeley‘s Goldman School of Public Policy), you realize how clearly and cogently he explains various economic problems and conditions. He is straightforward and to the point. The book is written in the same style. Reich is always interesting, insightful, and, inevitably, cuts to the chase.
If you wonder why China does not allow its currency (the yuan) to rise freely against the dollar, Reich explains it simply and clearly on page 73. If you want to know what the fundamental economic problem America is facing [“Americans no longer have the purchasing power to buy what the U.S. economy is capable of producing” (p. 75)], he carefully explains it (and re-explains it) throughout the book. If you want the ideal solution to the nation’s economic problems, read about the election of Margaret Jones of the Independence Party to the presidency in 2020 and her absolutely ideal economic solutions — a delightful scenario described on pages 79-81.
If you enjoy hypothetical, projection-analysis, Reich offers readers the politics of economics from 2010-2020 (prior to the election of Margaret Jones in 2020). It is a sobering analysis, and based on projections, it has the earmarks of a potential reality. For example, “The first painful adjustment will be to a lower standard of living — or at least far lower than we anticipated” (p. 89). Why not listen to a distinguished economist make his projections? Why not listen to a person with his credentials offer a worse-case-scenario for the American economy?
In about 20 pages, “What Should Be Done: A New Deal for the Middle Class,” Reich offers eight measures to assist in solving the problem: “Unless America’s middle class receives a fair share, it cannot consume nearly what the nation is capable of producing, at least without going deeply into debt” (p. 127) The second part of the problem is political: “Widening inequality, coupled with a growing perception that big business and Wall Street are in cahoots with big government for the purpose of making the rich even richer, gives fodder to demagogues on the extreme right and the extreme left” (p. 127).
So what are his solutions (and he admits “that he cannot pretend that the following measures would remedy these problems altogether)? 1) A reverse income tax. 2) A carbon tax. 3) Higher marginal tax rates on the wealthy. 4) A reemployment system rather than an unemployment system. 5) College loans linked to subsequent earnings. 6) Medicare for all. 7) Public goods, and . . . 8) Money out of politics. His final chapter is about how all of this could get done.
This is an excellent book. The argument is well-explained and well-supported. The writing is outstanding. And, like Obama’s Debt-Commission Plan, it is similarly radical. What the American people do not understand — or do not WANT to understand — is that in order to right the economy, it will take some suffering and sacrifice. In a land of plenty, with people accustomed to all the accruements of a healthy life and a comfortable lifestyle, suffering and sacrifice do not sit well. Buy this book!
Aftershock: The next economy and America’s future can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Aftershock-Next-Economy-Americas-Future/dp/0307592812/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297014166&sr=1-1
Book Review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
I am not an economist, but I took a basic economics class as an undergraduate at the University of Michigan. One does not need an economics background to understand (or appreciate) this book. The reason it helps is simply that it provides a useful backdrop or context for Reich’s ideas. (As a university education assists all students and graduates in offering challenging ideas for growth, development, and change, most all college courses prove useful in a variety of situations. This is just one more of them.)
I loved Reich’s book. First, it proves beyond a shadow of a doubt — as numerous economists have proven over and over (including, of course, Paul Krugman) — that top-down, trickle-down economics is a sham. It didn’t work under Reagan, it isn’t working now; it hasn’t worked at any time in history, and it won’t work in the future. It is bad economics. As “A larger and larger portion of the economy’s winnings [go] to people at the top” (p. 3), the economy grows steadily worse. “This is the heart of America’s ongoing economic predicament” (p. 3). This is one of the backbone tenets of this book, and Reich puts it on the first page of his “Introduction.”
Second, it supports a thesis I have often espoused: “redistributing income from rich to poor” makes good economical sense (p. 35). “ . . . Marriner Eccles [Reich has a chapter devoted to him because Eccles chaired the Federal Reserve Board from November 1934 until April 1948 — crucial years in the history of the American economy, and the world’s” (p. 11)] and John Maynard Keynes saw a broader economic justification for organizing the economy in such a way that the rich did not accumulate a disproportionate share to begin with: the need to maintain enough total demand” (p. 35).
The reason this book should be read by ALL Americans has to do with Reich’s basic argument: “. . . that our fundamentals are profoundly skewed, that the Great Recession was but the latest and largest outgrowth of an increasingly distorted distribution of income, and that we will have to choose, inevitably, between deepening discontent (and its ever nastier politics) and fundamental social and economic reform. I believe,” writes Reich, “that we simply must — and will — choose the latter” (p. 5).
There are 12½ pages of notes and only 146 pages of text material. Thus, this is a well-supported, well-written book that is both challenging (thought-provoking), and engaging (attention-holding).
I appreciated Reich’s honesty in assessing counter arguments to his own. For example, “Some argue that there was simply no need for government intervention [to prevent the Great Recession of 2007]. The economy did better on its own, those people say, without so much government and with lower taxes on the rich. They point,” writes Reich, “to the great expansion of the 1980s and the long recovery of the 1990s, and to the wildly exuberant bull market of the era. . . This argument is bunk,” he says. “It equates the stock market with the economy, and turns a blind eye to the revocation of the basic bargain. The argument does not acknowledge the consequences for an economy when the middle class lacks the means to buy with it produces” (p. 57).
If you ever listen to Robert Reich’s contributions to MSNBC (he is one of the major political economists they consult because he was labor secretary during the Clinton administration, and is currently professor of public policy at U.C. Berkeley‘s Goldman School of Public Policy), you realize how clearly and cogently he explains various economic problems and conditions. He is straightforward and to the point. The book is written in the same style. Reich is always interesting, insightful, and, inevitably, cuts to the chase.
If you wonder why China does not allow its currency (the yuan) to rise freely against the dollar, Reich explains it simply and clearly on page 73. If you want to know what the fundamental economic problem America is facing [“Americans no longer have the purchasing power to buy what the U.S. economy is capable of producing” (p. 75)], he carefully explains it (and re-explains it) throughout the book. If you want the ideal solution to the nation’s economic problems, read about the election of Margaret Jones of the Independence Party to the presidency in 2020 and her absolutely ideal economic solutions — a delightful scenario described on pages 79-81.
If you enjoy hypothetical, projection-analysis, Reich offers readers the politics of economics from 2010-2020 (prior to the election of Margaret Jones in 2020). It is a sobering analysis, and based on projections, it has the earmarks of a potential reality. For example, “The first painful adjustment will be to a lower standard of living — or at least far lower than we anticipated” (p. 89). Why not listen to a distinguished economist make his projections? Why not listen to a person with his credentials offer a worse-case-scenario for the American economy?
In about 20 pages, “What Should Be Done: A New Deal for the Middle Class,” Reich offers eight measures to assist in solving the problem: “Unless America’s middle class receives a fair share, it cannot consume nearly what the nation is capable of producing, at least without going deeply into debt” (p. 127) The second part of the problem is political: “Widening inequality, coupled with a growing perception that big business and Wall Street are in cahoots with big government for the purpose of making the rich even richer, gives fodder to demagogues on the extreme right and the extreme left” (p. 127).
So what are his solutions (and he admits “that he cannot pretend that the following measures would remedy these problems altogether)? 1) A reverse income tax. 2) A carbon tax. 3) Higher marginal tax rates on the wealthy. 4) A reemployment system rather than an unemployment system. 5) College loans linked to subsequent earnings. 6) Medicare for all. 7) Public goods, and . . . 8) Money out of politics. His final chapter is about how all of this could get done.
This is an excellent book. The argument is well-explained and well-supported. The writing is outstanding. And, like Obama’s Debt-Commission Plan, it is similarly radical. What the American people do not understand — or do not WANT to understand — is that in order to right the economy, it will take some suffering and sacrifice. In a land of plenty, with people accustomed to all the accruements of a healthy life and a comfortable lifestyle, suffering and sacrifice do not sit well. Buy this book!
Aftershock: The next economy and America’s future can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, May 7, 2012
All facts considered: The essential library of inessential knowledge
By Kee Malesky
http://www.amazon.com/All-Facts-Considered-Essential-Inessential/dp
/0470559659
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Forty-eight pages of fine-printed “Notes and Sources” will give you some idea of how well Malesky, National Public Radio’s (NPRs) librarian, footnotes and offers references for the information she provides. Malesky notes, “I am not the NPR librarian; I’m one of a team of searchers who support NPR’s editorial process” (p. 3).
When I first saw this book, I overlooked it on purpose thinking it was pure nonsense. That is, I thought it was for those who wanted to fill up their storehouse of useless knowledge (or succeed when playing “Trivial Pursuit”) I didn’t even consider reading the book much less reviewing it.
You may wonder how the facts in this book were selected. Malesky makes it very clear: “The facts in this collection have been chosen by me . . .” (p. 3). These are facts that I like or that I find useful, interesting, amazing, or worth sharing . . . “ (p. 3).
In this book, there is no continuing narrative, no unifying theme (although the author uses parts (“On Memory and History,” “On Reason and Science,” and “On Imagination, Poetry, and Art”)) and chapters) to organize her facts. As you read, however, you kind of lose sight of the over-arching subject since there are so many diverse facts discussed. The index is 20½ pages long (in small font) and includes subjects and authors. This is important in a book such as this for when you want to go back (or research) a particular section, at least you have a place to go to help you find it.
If you just want to fill your mind with facts, this is a terrific resource. For example, “The initialism LOL isn’t new; it was used by librarians (and probably many other people) way before computers, to describe a certain group of patrons: “little old ladies.” Now standard Internet shorthand for “laughing out loud,” it has equivalents in other languages too. . . (pp. 86-87).
In her section, “The Department of Redundancies Department” (p. 88), look at the following list (she lists 22): self-censor yourself, please RSVP, 2 a.m. in the morning, PIN number, SAT test, START treaty, LCD display, ATM machine, end result, basic fundamentals, free gift, closed first, Rio Grande River, pair of twins, reason why, whether or not, hot water heater, unexpected surprise, past history, first began, enter into, and prohibition against. Delightful!
For readers interested in language, her sections, “Endangered Languages,” “Euskera Spoken,” “The Forest of Rhetoric,” and “Mixed Metaphors” are especially interesting.
I’m not one who just wants to sit back and be entertained by a whole bunch of unrelated discussions of facts. For me, that is a total waste of my time. I would much rather read books that contribute substantially to my writing (in whatever capacity that may be). It’s the “Inessential Knowledge” portion of the title that concerns me most. I picked up the book simply because I thought there might be some juicy, relevant tidbits that I might use. I think if I were continuing to lecture to undergraduates (as I did for 22 years), there might be an example, a statistic, or an illustration that would be useful; however, being beyond that time in my life, the search would be unnecessary and pointless. I try to read books that are more relevant to my current stage of life.
This book is interesting, well-researched, and well-written. Malesky has collected a great number of facts, and if you have the patience and the interest, this book will definitely occupy your time. There are only 204 pages of text, and it reads quickly. Have fun!
All facts considered: The essential library of inessential knowledge can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/All-Facts-Considered-Essential-Inessential/dp
/0470559659
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
Forty-eight pages of fine-printed “Notes and Sources” will give you some idea of how well Malesky, National Public Radio’s (NPRs) librarian, footnotes and offers references for the information she provides. Malesky notes, “I am not the NPR librarian; I’m one of a team of searchers who support NPR’s editorial process” (p. 3).
When I first saw this book, I overlooked it on purpose thinking it was pure nonsense. That is, I thought it was for those who wanted to fill up their storehouse of useless knowledge (or succeed when playing “Trivial Pursuit”) I didn’t even consider reading the book much less reviewing it.
You may wonder how the facts in this book were selected. Malesky makes it very clear: “The facts in this collection have been chosen by me . . .” (p. 3). These are facts that I like or that I find useful, interesting, amazing, or worth sharing . . . “ (p. 3).
In this book, there is no continuing narrative, no unifying theme (although the author uses parts (“On Memory and History,” “On Reason and Science,” and “On Imagination, Poetry, and Art”)) and chapters) to organize her facts. As you read, however, you kind of lose sight of the over-arching subject since there are so many diverse facts discussed. The index is 20½ pages long (in small font) and includes subjects and authors. This is important in a book such as this for when you want to go back (or research) a particular section, at least you have a place to go to help you find it.
If you just want to fill your mind with facts, this is a terrific resource. For example, “The initialism LOL isn’t new; it was used by librarians (and probably many other people) way before computers, to describe a certain group of patrons: “little old ladies.” Now standard Internet shorthand for “laughing out loud,” it has equivalents in other languages too. . . (pp. 86-87).
In her section, “The Department of Redundancies Department” (p. 88), look at the following list (she lists 22): self-censor yourself, please RSVP, 2 a.m. in the morning, PIN number, SAT test, START treaty, LCD display, ATM machine, end result, basic fundamentals, free gift, closed first, Rio Grande River, pair of twins, reason why, whether or not, hot water heater, unexpected surprise, past history, first began, enter into, and prohibition against. Delightful!
For readers interested in language, her sections, “Endangered Languages,” “Euskera Spoken,” “The Forest of Rhetoric,” and “Mixed Metaphors” are especially interesting.
I’m not one who just wants to sit back and be entertained by a whole bunch of unrelated discussions of facts. For me, that is a total waste of my time. I would much rather read books that contribute substantially to my writing (in whatever capacity that may be). It’s the “Inessential Knowledge” portion of the title that concerns me most. I picked up the book simply because I thought there might be some juicy, relevant tidbits that I might use. I think if I were continuing to lecture to undergraduates (as I did for 22 years), there might be an example, a statistic, or an illustration that would be useful; however, being beyond that time in my life, the search would be unnecessary and pointless. I try to read books that are more relevant to my current stage of life.
This book is interesting, well-researched, and well-written. Malesky has collected a great number of facts, and if you have the patience and the interest, this book will definitely occupy your time. There are only 204 pages of text, and it reads quickly. Have fun!
All facts considered: The essential library of inessential knowledge can be purchased at Amazon.
Monday, April 30, 2012
You’re old, I’m old . . . Get used to it! — 20 reasons why growing old is great
By Virginia Ironside
http://www.amazon.com/Youre-Old-Im-Get-Used/dp/B004J8HY9O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1296958063&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
There are no footnotes, no references, no further readings. This book is all Virginia Ironside, and it is delightful.
If you’re over 50, you’ll love this book. It is full of amusing little stories — just short vignettes with which you will quickly identify.
Ironside is a story teller. In her section on “Public Speaking” (now, I wonder how I discovered that section!), “The prospect of reciting ‘To Autumn’ by Keats at a school concert when I was young reduced me to a gibbering wreck. My palms sweated, my legs trembled, my heart thundered and I felt sick. Now — I can hardly bear to admit this — if anyone asks who would like to deliver a eulogy at a funeral, I feel my hand shooting up before they’ve even got the words out. . . “ (p. 51).
On “Exercise” Ironside writes, “My exercise routing involves getting out of bed, going downstairs, having a bath, going upstairs to sit at a computer, going downstairs for a cup of coffee, and occasionally walking to my car. . . “ (p. 66).
What I especially liked is not just the great writing, the directness Ironside has with readers, her honesty and straightforwardness, her willingness to self-disclose with abandon, but the great quotations she incorporates throughout the book.
She quoted Kingsley Amis who, “on being asked at seventy whether he had sex, replied that he was delighted when his libido vanished because he suddenly realized that for sixty years he’d been ‘chained to an idiot.’”
She quoted Logan Pearsall Smith, lexicographer, who said, “Another sunny day! Thank God I don’t have to go out and enjoy it!”
She quoted John Barrymore, who said, “Die? Certainly not. No Barrymore would allow such a conventional thing to happen to him.”
She quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, who said, “Beautiful young people are accidents of nature but beautiful old people are works of art.”
She quoted Francis Bacon (along with three others at the beginning of Chapter 17, “Time,”), who said, “I will never be an old man. For me old age is always fifteen years older than I am.”
Besides the numerous quotations scattered throughout the book (and there are nearly one or two per page), each chapter also begins with a well-chosen quotation or poem. Those scattered throughout the book are so neatly incorporated, so quietly and elegantly subsumed by her narrative, that they simply add to the attractiveness and glow of what Ironside writes.
I have never really thought of myself as “old.” And yet, when I read Ironside’s musings about ailments, memory, confidence, spare time, death, sex, recession, work, downsizing, looks, young people, travel, funerals, boring for Britain, alone again, old friends, time, never again, wisdom, and grandchildren (all of her chapter titles), I realize (a sudden, uncontrollable, internal yell!), “Holy Shit, I AM old!” This material is entertaining simply because Ironside is so witty, charming, endearing, and cool. (My mother never liked reading anything about getting old, because it reminded her too much of her stage of life. I find such writing illuminating and supportive — just like the last portion of Ironside’s book title: “Get Used to It!”
My wife and I have taken ten cruises. This is what Ironside says about cruises: “ . . . the rub about cruises and old people is that so many other oldies have the same idea. And I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be trapped on a floating prison with dozens of people with crutches all over the place . . .” (p. 134). She continued in another paragraph, this quotation put into brackets: “(I also don’t want, incidentally, to sleep in a room the size of a small coffin in a bed the size of a schoolgirl’s pencil case, nor do I especially want to learn Flower Arranging on the lower deck portside on Friday afternoon, not indulge in Scarf-Tying Class on Monday morning in the Royal Tea Lounge on the Promenade Deck . . .” (p. 134). My wife and I don’t attend the ship’s activities either. What we like on the cruises we take are 1) excursions, 2) time to relax and read, 3) great food that my wife doesn’t have to think about or cook, and 4) moderately good entertainment (sometimes even outstanding). What makes this book fun is reading about another person’s impressions. The world is full of characters, and Ironside, for all her warmth and charm, is truly a character.
There is no question that Ironside celebrates the great things about being old. Look, for example, about how she describes getting ready for a funeral: “Arranging a funeral isn’t difficult or distressing. On the contrary, it’s a real pleasure to organize things when someone dies. It gives you a sense of control, a feeling of doing something for the person who’s gone, and it also gives you something to take your mind temporarily off the disaster that has just befallen you, so that you’re not completely overwhelmed” (p. 145).
This is the kind of book for which you dress in your most casual attire, take it out to the back porch, find a comfortable chaise lounge in the shade, have a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade nearby, settle down and relax, and leisurely read at a sedate, undemanding, slow pace knowing, in advance, that it will bring pleasure, contentedness, and true happiness. It’s like being next to a cracklin’ fire, all wrapped up in a warm, snuggly blanket, on a cold, crisp snowy winter’s evening, huddled down in your favorite lazy-boy recliner. Now, that’s indulgence!
You’re old, I’m old . . . Get used to it! — 20 reasons why growing old is great can be purchased at Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Youre-Old-Im-Get-Used/dp/B004J8HY9O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1296958063&sr=1-1
Book review by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D.
There are no footnotes, no references, no further readings. This book is all Virginia Ironside, and it is delightful.
If you’re over 50, you’ll love this book. It is full of amusing little stories — just short vignettes with which you will quickly identify.
Ironside is a story teller. In her section on “Public Speaking” (now, I wonder how I discovered that section!), “The prospect of reciting ‘To Autumn’ by Keats at a school concert when I was young reduced me to a gibbering wreck. My palms sweated, my legs trembled, my heart thundered and I felt sick. Now — I can hardly bear to admit this — if anyone asks who would like to deliver a eulogy at a funeral, I feel my hand shooting up before they’ve even got the words out. . . “ (p. 51).
On “Exercise” Ironside writes, “My exercise routing involves getting out of bed, going downstairs, having a bath, going upstairs to sit at a computer, going downstairs for a cup of coffee, and occasionally walking to my car. . . “ (p. 66).
What I especially liked is not just the great writing, the directness Ironside has with readers, her honesty and straightforwardness, her willingness to self-disclose with abandon, but the great quotations she incorporates throughout the book.
She quoted Kingsley Amis who, “on being asked at seventy whether he had sex, replied that he was delighted when his libido vanished because he suddenly realized that for sixty years he’d been ‘chained to an idiot.’”
She quoted Logan Pearsall Smith, lexicographer, who said, “Another sunny day! Thank God I don’t have to go out and enjoy it!”
She quoted John Barrymore, who said, “Die? Certainly not. No Barrymore would allow such a conventional thing to happen to him.”
She quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, who said, “Beautiful young people are accidents of nature but beautiful old people are works of art.”
She quoted Francis Bacon (along with three others at the beginning of Chapter 17, “Time,”), who said, “I will never be an old man. For me old age is always fifteen years older than I am.”
Besides the numerous quotations scattered throughout the book (and there are nearly one or two per page), each chapter also begins with a well-chosen quotation or poem. Those scattered throughout the book are so neatly incorporated, so quietly and elegantly subsumed by her narrative, that they simply add to the attractiveness and glow of what Ironside writes.
I have never really thought of myself as “old.” And yet, when I read Ironside’s musings about ailments, memory, confidence, spare time, death, sex, recession, work, downsizing, looks, young people, travel, funerals, boring for Britain, alone again, old friends, time, never again, wisdom, and grandchildren (all of her chapter titles), I realize (a sudden, uncontrollable, internal yell!), “Holy Shit, I AM old!” This material is entertaining simply because Ironside is so witty, charming, endearing, and cool. (My mother never liked reading anything about getting old, because it reminded her too much of her stage of life. I find such writing illuminating and supportive — just like the last portion of Ironside’s book title: “Get Used to It!”
My wife and I have taken ten cruises. This is what Ironside says about cruises: “ . . . the rub about cruises and old people is that so many other oldies have the same idea. And I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be trapped on a floating prison with dozens of people with crutches all over the place . . .” (p. 134). She continued in another paragraph, this quotation put into brackets: “(I also don’t want, incidentally, to sleep in a room the size of a small coffin in a bed the size of a schoolgirl’s pencil case, nor do I especially want to learn Flower Arranging on the lower deck portside on Friday afternoon, not indulge in Scarf-Tying Class on Monday morning in the Royal Tea Lounge on the Promenade Deck . . .” (p. 134). My wife and I don’t attend the ship’s activities either. What we like on the cruises we take are 1) excursions, 2) time to relax and read, 3) great food that my wife doesn’t have to think about or cook, and 4) moderately good entertainment (sometimes even outstanding). What makes this book fun is reading about another person’s impressions. The world is full of characters, and Ironside, for all her warmth and charm, is truly a character.
There is no question that Ironside celebrates the great things about being old. Look, for example, about how she describes getting ready for a funeral: “Arranging a funeral isn’t difficult or distressing. On the contrary, it’s a real pleasure to organize things when someone dies. It gives you a sense of control, a feeling of doing something for the person who’s gone, and it also gives you something to take your mind temporarily off the disaster that has just befallen you, so that you’re not completely overwhelmed” (p. 145).
This is the kind of book for which you dress in your most casual attire, take it out to the back porch, find a comfortable chaise lounge in the shade, have a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade nearby, settle down and relax, and leisurely read at a sedate, undemanding, slow pace knowing, in advance, that it will bring pleasure, contentedness, and true happiness. It’s like being next to a cracklin’ fire, all wrapped up in a warm, snuggly blanket, on a cold, crisp snowy winter’s evening, huddled down in your favorite lazy-boy recliner. Now, that’s indulgence!
You’re old, I’m old . . . Get used to it! — 20 reasons why growing old is great can be purchased at Amazon.
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