The question is whether a moral theory, which is the subject of Moral Theory by Mark Timmons, is good? I accept this question, since it is good to know whether an action might be right and wrong.

The final cause and goal of a moral theory is to bring about peace from the understanding of right and wrong. Timmons writes, 'The practical aim of a moral theory has to do with the desire to have some method to follow when, for example, we reason about what is right or wrong' (p. 3).

The material cause and stuff involved with a moral theory are actions, such as right or wrong actions. Timmons writes that a moral theory serves 'to explain what makes actions right or wrong' (p. 6).

The formal causes of a moral theory involved six unique 'characteristics' (p. 17). A moral theory that is trustworthy will be: (1) 'Consistent' (p. 13) and involve the inductive observations of regularities in nature; (2) 'Determinate' (p. 13) and will be clear and precise; (3) 'Intuitive' (p. 14) and will be based on 'facts about human nature' and common sense; (4) 'Internally supported' (p. 15) and will trigger the passion of hope and be supported by our beliefs; (5) 'Powerful' (p. 15) and will assist a person with 'principles that explain what it is about actions that makes them right or wrong;' (6) 'Externally supported' (p. 16) and will received support from counseling agents and experts in 'psychology, metaphysics and religion' (p. 16).

The principle agent and person primarily responsible for a moral theory is every person 'who can be held responsible for who they are and what they do' (p. 10). The principal agents of a moral theory are 'responsible agents' who are 'candidates for being morally good or bad' (p. 16).

There are three preparing agents and three things that we may do in order to arrive at a trustworthy moral theory. 1. We must define our terms and 'clarify important concepts, such as that of human dignity' (p. 2). 2. We must look at the different reasons people give when performing an action and 'evaluate various claims' (p. 2). 3. We must find the missing premises in practical syllogisms and evaluate the 'basic moral assumptions that are often unstated in the giving of such arguments' (p. 3).

The assisting agents of a trustworthy moral theory are 'moral principles' (p. 6), guidelines of discussion, and the 'principles' (p. 15) of right or wrong actions.

A trustworthy moral theory must consider the counseling agents and experts in the various disciplines, such as 'psychology, metaphysics and religion' (p. 16).

What does a person see, hear, taste, touch and smell when contacting a sound moral theory? A person may read about a law that was passed in Oregon in 1999 which allowed 'physician-assisted suicide' (p. 1) and was 'effectively overturned' (p. 2) after the consideration of the various reasons for the action and the hunt for missing premises in arguments.

A sound moral theory is analogous to strong scientific theory. Timmons writes, 'Scientists employ scientific methodology in arriving at scientific conclusions about various phenomena under investigation, and such methodology provides a means of resolving scientific disputes' (p. 3).

A sign that a moral theory is sound and trustworthy is that the moral theory agrees with one's hopes and beliefs. Timmons writes, 'A moral theory whose principles' logically imply our' moral beliefs [is a moral theory that] receives support' from those beliefs' (p. 15).

The history of philosophy shows that people have regularly desired a sound moral theory. Timmons writes, 'In the chapters that follow, we shall examine representative versions of the following moral theories'' Eight moral theories from the history of philosophy are considered in the following chapters of Timmon's Moral Theory.

The motive for having a sound moral theory is reasonable, since it is reasonable to 'understand the underlying nature of right and wrong' (p. 4). Additionally, the passion involved with a sound moral theory is desire, since we 'desire to have some method to follow' (p. 3) when trying to do the right thing.

The above deliberation process enables me to choose two of my favorite reasons for a sound moral theory and enables me to make the following command. A moral theory is good, because a moral theory includes preparing agents and sign of agreement with one's hopes and beliefs.

In order to execute an activity based on the above steps of prudence, I shall make the following argument:

The activities of defining terms, considering various reasons for an action and hunting for missing premises in arguments, as well as an agreement with one's hopes and beliefs, are good. A moral theory involves the activities of defining terms, considering various reasons for an action and hunting for missing premises in arguments, as well as an agreement with one's hopes and beliefs.
Therefore, a moral theory is good.

This is really an excellent book in every way that an ethics text can be good. It would be perfect for any mid-level course in ethical theory or the history of ethics.

Students and ideally, general readers, who just want to learn what some of the best thinkers have thought about right & wrong and good & bad will learn a lot from this book. They will also also (and more importantly), learn careful philosophical methodology--that is, learn how to think about and critically evaluate ethical theories. The book is clear and concise, careful and precise but not overly technical to a fault, and enjoyable to read.

Also, the price simply cannot be beat, especially for a text. Poor students will be grateful and they might even hold onto it after class is over.

This book was very well written but just to top of a great book there were amazing illustrations.

Interesting to read in different chapters, and a good guideline for whats fact and fiction.

I love the whites and blues of the hillside villages overlooking the Mediterranean. This book is an inspiration for a quality of life that we simply don't have in the US. Simplicity is an art in these wonderful villages and homes we are allowed to explore in this wonderful book. Flowers abound. Life is wonderful. This book is something to treasure until you get your chance to see it for yourself. And in response to that silly editorial review....not everyone is watching that Raymond TV show!

Breathtaking photographs that would convince anyone to travel to these villages. Excellent source of information pertaining to the photos as well.

A rollicking footstomping comedy about Rock N' Roll N' Africa. Nick Hornby with a vocabulary, attitude and West African Rhythm.

Great funky footstomping comedy set amidst the African Rock Scene. Nick Hornby with a vocabulary, attitude and West African rhythm.

Pasternak's poetry is better than his prose. Why he is still often better known for the latter baffles me. I suggest this or any of his collected poems to the reader looking for creative, quality poetry. Pasternak certainly ranks as one of the greatest amongst the group of very talented Russian poets that emerged during the first quarter of the 20th centuary. His poems deserve just as much (if not more) recognition as his novels.

While Pasternak is known in the United States mainly for his novel "Dr. Zhivago" - or, more to the point, the film based on "Dr. Zhivago" - he was quite an accomplished poet. A better poet, I think, than he was a novelist. Although I've never read Mr. Rudman's translation - or, for that matter, any translation at all - "Sister of Mine-Life" keeps to its bosom a host of beautiful poems.

Rather than try to explain Pasternak's incredible gift for metaphor and detail, his absolute love of words - he was a decent translator of Shakespeare and others - I'll roughly approximate my favorite poem, from it's original Russian. It is untitled.

***

My friend, you ask, who ordered
That the holy idiot's speech should blaze?

***

Let us trickle words
As the garden drips amber and lemon
Absently and generous,
Gently, gently, gently.

And there's no need to explain
Why there is such ceremony
Of madder and of lemon
Scattering on leaves.

Who made pine needles rush
On a long stick, like music
Through the locks of Venetian blinds,
To the bookcase.

Who reddened the rug of mountain ash
Rippling beyond the door,
Written through with beautiful,
Quivering cursives.

You ask, who orders
That August be great
To whom nothing is small
Who lives in the finishing

Of maple leaves;
Who, since the days of the Ecclesiastes,
Hasn't left his post
And is hewing alabaster?

You ask, who orders,
That the September lips of asters and dahlias
Shall suffer?
That leaves
Should fall from stone caryatids
To the damp gravestones
Of autumn hospitals?

You ask, who orders?
--Omnipotent God of details,
Omnipotent God of love,
Of Yaigails and Yaidvigas.

I don't know, was it decided,
The riddle of the road to the afterlife,
But life, like the stillness
Of autumn -- is details.

I can't quite transmit the pine needles rushing through the Venetian blinds as boats through a sluice, but I'm sure Mr. Rudman could. Even through my approximate translation, it's possible to see what a man of detail Pasternak was. In my edition, the introduction begins: "With Pasternak, you must hurt" -- as great ideas are, the editor notes, painful.

Pasternak certainly took painful care of his words, his thoughts, his beauty. And "Sister of Mine-Life," one of his earlier collections - (the summer of 1917) - is beautiful, detailed and pained.

***

As a post script, I prefer "Sister of Mine-Life," to "My Sister-Life" because the construction "sistra maya" - rather than "maya sistra" stresses that she's my sister.

Also, because life and sister are both female in gender, "my sister" and "my life" are dually coupled in Pasternak's title. "My" could refer solely to sister, or it could be my life, as well.

I found this in the Episcobal convent bookstore after hearing the nuns read in during dinner at our women's retreat. This book does seem to draw you into a divine presence and it felt like that as it was being read to us. McIntosh has a light style of writing that is both simple and profound. He brings complex ideas right into your heart with clarity and sincerity. For anyone who both wants to know more and to feed the faith already flowering, this is a wonderful way to continue the journey.

Mysteries Of Faith introduces the Christian doctrines of creation, revelation, incarnation, salvation, and eschatology -- all held together by the fundamental doctrine of the Trinity. Mark McIntosh (Episcopal priest in the Diocese of Chicago and associate professor of systematic theology and spirituality at Loyola University) explains the language of relationship and mutuality, friendship and family ties. His central theme is our relationship with Jesus and our relationship with our neighbors, maintaining that its this mutuality that lies at the core of every one of these doctrines. Mysteries Of Faith is an ideal introduction to exploring these essential concepts by drawing on our common experiences as members of a community of faith, especially as reflected through the sacraments of baptism and eucharist, to understand how we might live them in our daily lives. Mysteries Of Faith is highly recommended reading for all students of Christian doctrine and spirituality through an Anglican perspective.

His critics dismiss Texe Marrs with the label "Fundamentalist Christian." So be it. But at least he takes a stand. At least he reads the Bible of his faith. At least he applies it to the world around him.

I like Marrs' books. They have the excitement of conspiracy theory. But grounded in Bible study. If you don't believe in the Bible (or are afraid your friends will think you're a nut if you do) you probably won't like his books. But if you're into Bible prophecy, and use the Christian Bible to guide your life, then I think you'll appreciate Marrs' perspective.

I'll admit, I try not to put any Christian writer on a pedestal. God is still the definitive Author. But there's a place for writers who use the Bible to comment on current events. I appreciate the work they do. Especially when it prompts me to go back and read Bible passages they've pointed out.

So, Mr. Marrs: I thank you for taking so much flak, yet still keeping the faith. And I eagerly await your next book.

Texe Marrs explains how the Lord Satan will crush all religions and rule supreme over the earth. Resist nad he will lay your soul to waste!

Have you ever dreamed of an adventure that take you beyond the bounds of this physical world? This exciting mystical journey undertaken by Ratho Shenzi, a young man and his friend Barjen, leads them both through physical, mental, and spiritual challenges to learn the powers of the light and sound. Ratho is summoned telepathically by Tanda Vas, an ancient warrior Master of the invisible worlds. Tanda Vas guides Ratho and Barjen, along with four other companion warriors skilled in the use of cosmic energies, on a journey where they are tested by La Puroon, a high priest of the black arts, and his army of blood-thirsty barbarians. The Master of the Dark Powers seeks to steal the Golden Chest that contains a secret from beyond this world. Both Ratho and Barjen learn to overcome their fears, fighting along side of Tanda Vas, and become aware of their own spiritual and physical powers and the responsibilities that come with the use of those powers. This story keeps you reading to the finish. Great story, fast reading and can't wait to continue the adventure with Tanda Vas in Volume II.

This is a great read for someone looking to relax unwind and escape into a special fascinating world of adventure and mysticism. this is the kind of book you take to bed or on the plane and with it, for a few moments anyway, you forget the hum drum world around you and enter a unique and compelling one. Highly recommended for any arm chair adventurers and truth seekers. And it is enjoyable !

Nations of Nations tells the history of our country in a very tangible way that is accessable and interesting. It is a rare history book that focusues as much on the culture and the people from different time periods as the country's leaders and law makers. Which, when studying American History, is of the utmost importance.

NATION OF NATIONS VOLUME TWO: SINCE 1865 WAS A FABULOUS TEXT BOOK. THIS BOOK HELPED ME TO BETTER UNDERSTAND ALL ASPECTS OF THE INFORMATION WITHIN. AS A FRESHMAN THIS YEAR I HAD A HARD TIME ADJUSTING TO MY CLASSES BUT WITH THIS TEXT I HAD NO PROBLEMS UNDERSTANDING MY READING ASSIGNMENTS AND ENDED UP DOING VERY WELL IN THE CLASS. I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK IF YOU HAVE A HARD TIME PICKING OUT THE IMPORTANT PARTS OF A PARAGRAPH BECAUSE IT HAS GOOD OUTLINES. IT WAS A FANTASTIC TEXT BOOK!

As the editor of West Virginia's premier high school sports website, I have gotten to know author Doug Huff through the years.

In our state, high school football is truly king. I had a chance to talk to Huff about this book.

When Student Sports Inc. of Torrance, California wanted to put together a national football record book recently, they turned to Huff. "Of course I jumped at it," he said. "And it's much more than a list of numbers."

The book that has just been published has Nitro (WV) grad J.R. House pictured on the cover along with three other players and three coaches.

When you pick up the just released National High School Football Record Book, you're going to see some big names and some mind-blowing facts.

What high school has a record 35 state titles with a record ten in a row? What school has won a record 113 games in a row (and still counting)? Check page 6.

And you can read about and see photos of stars such as Tim Couch, Billy Sims and Dan Marino.

But the new publication has a very distinctive West Virginia flavor too.

For starters, Huff is the editor of the book. Huff may have retired from his beat at the Wheeling (WV) Intelligencer, but he didn't exactly find the ol' rocking chair. In fact, the NHSFRB is as ambitious of a project that any one would (or wouldn't) want to take on.

Some of the books features are individual records, year-by-year season stat leaders, All-time best teams and All-Time All-Americans. There's the Top 50 Programs of All-time and the State vs. State All-Star Games.

National rankings and regional rankings are listed. You can check out top players, coaches and teams. Compare season and career stats.

The book is a must-have for any big high school football fan nationwide. But West Virginia gridiron fanatics will see many familiar names as well.

Did you know that Gatha Hoffman, a punter from Fairmont (WV)Senior HS is credited with a punt covering 105 yards in 1929? Or that Carlton Clark of Pennsboro (WV) HS has the record for blocked punts in a season with 16, also in 1929. Pineville's Curt Warner led in nation in points scored in 1978.

And check out the All-Time All-American Player Rankings! For wide receivers, everybody above Rand (WV)'s Randy Moss is already an NFL Hall of Famer, except for Vikings teammate Chris Carter - and he'll be one. And you should see the names ahead of (and behind) Warner, who makes the running backs list. Talk about respect, Farmington (WV)'s Sam Huff gets some too at the linebacker position.

And for pure stats Nitro quarterback J.R. House is all over the book, along with his favorite receivers Chris Martin, Zack Collins and Jeff Clark.

The 1999 MoHawk Bowl even gets a mention. You'll see Ceredo Kenova's Carl Ward's 10 titles. You'll also find Capital HS, Brooke HS, Nitro HS, Weir HS, North Marion HS, John Marshall HS, South Charleston HS, DuPont HS and East Bank HS in the NHSFRB pages with yearly rankings. The 2000 State Football Champs from each state are honored, so you'll see Morgantown HS, Wheeling Central HS and Bridgeport HS in there.

Morgantown (WV)'s Mark Wigal is a 2000 Student Sports Senior All-American, and there's tons more.

"It's been a passion of mine, and I'm tickled any time I see a West Virginian in there," said Huff.

The same will hold true for fans in any state -- this is a comprehensive book!

But who is the National High School Player of the Century? We'll you'll just have to turn to page 28 for the answer.

Jim Workman is the editor of WVSPN.com.

Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the record book, it has some amazing stats and information in it and I couldn't stop reading it! Who would have thought that Yankees great Roger Maris still holds a national football record? As the book is current through the 2000 season, I was surprised at how many records have been broken this past year... like David Koral and his 764 yards passing in a game... the book explained that no NFL quarterback has ever passed for more than 557 (Ty Detmer) and I thought that was interesting too. I would recommend the book to coaches, parents and players or just fans of high school football... it's really a must have!!