I originally purchased the book with the hopes of learning more about the French occupation of Algeria. I was not looking to read the memoir of an assassin and torturer. Although the book did not provide much in the way of history, it did provoke much thought about terrorism, colonization, and to what lengths a nation is willing to go in order to crush terrorism...or rebellion (depending on one's definition).

During the 1950's, numerous North African nations were granted independence from colonial rule, but France maintained a hard-line in regards to Algeria. After Tunisia was granted independence, nationalists throughout Algeria began to attack French citizens, properties, and government troops in the hopes of securing their own freedom. General Aussaresses was given the task of stopping the attacks on French citizens living in Algeria, and subsequently destroy the nationalists as an entity.

The majority of the book discusses how Aussaresses developed a program of executions, assassinations, and torture in order to stop the FLN. He discusses how his secret mission was hidden from the majority of the French populous and even from some major government officials. Then, the book abruptly ends, with out giving the reader a real conclusion. There is no real explanation as to what occurred following the departure of Aussaresses, or what happened to Algeria as a nation. Certainly an epilogue would have been appreciated.

Nevertheless, the book did provide food for thought. How does a nation fight terrorism? It would seem that Aussaresses would argue that we fight terror with terror. Kidnapping and summary executions solve the dilemma, Aussaresses would say. But with the use of these tactics, a different dilemma arises. Who is the terrorist when both parties act so similarly?

This book poses many questions. What does a nation do to fight an enemy that will indiscriminately kill innocent civilians (including women and children)? How do intelligence forces get the information they need to prevent further attacks? Do the ends justify the means? General Aussaresses attempts to answer these questions in this book and I think, does so very convincingly.

It's important to understand the context of the situation. French Algeria was a colony populated by a number of ethnicities. Many muslims were pro-French and wanted Algeria to remain a French department. In addition, you had a significant French colonial population, the Pieds Noirs (the black feet) that wanted Algeria to remain French. Additionally, there were groups that wanted independence - those willing to work within a political framework, and those willing to engage in terrorism.

Aussaresses and his methods (as described in the book) were successful in subduing the rebels. France voluntarily left Algeria. De Gualle made the decision to give Algeria its independence in 1962-- the French were not forced out. In fact, many elements of the French army mutinied against De Gualle as a result of his decision -- but that's a different story.

This book describes the means by which information was gathered and applied in order to combat a foe that was willing to bomb civilians, engage in what we now call terrorist acts, and could conceal themselves within the population. The methods included torture and summary executions. But these were not the only methods employed. What Aussaresses established was a process of intelligence gathering and the application of military and police resources to act on that information. He used torture in interrogations in order to gather information. Aussaresses used the information gathered from these interrogations to eliminate operatives, foil terrorist plots, and systematically dismantle the FLN. These methods succeeded.

I think there are tough lessons to be learned from this book. How are our intelligence and military forces fighting the war on terror gathering their information to prevent further attacks? Are America and its allies prepared to do what is necessary to protect our populations? Do the ends justify the means?

Those who consider the French to be wimps who have no idea of how to handle terrorism should read this book. General Paul Aussaressess will certainly make you reevaluate your opinion France and how its military handles difficult situations such as urban guerilla warfare and terrorism. General Aussaressess was placed in charge of destroying the FLN terrorist infrastructure in the Algerian capital during the critical 1956-57 period. As impossible as this assignment was, he succeeded in dramatically reducing urban attacks during his tenure for several reasons. First, he was not afraid to employ tough measures against his enemy, including torture, assassination, and summary execution. Second and more importantly, he developed a superb human intelligence network to tracks down and eliminate the FLN. Finally, General Aussaressess worked extremely hard to get inside his enemy's head to predict when and where that enemy would strike next. Whatever people think about Aussaressess's methodologies, he definitely comes across as a thoughtful warrior. Like a good detective, Aussaressess was a man who could think on his feet to solve problems. His experience demonstrates how one person can make a difference in a war against terrorism. I recommend this book to anyone struggling with intelligence and terrorism issues, from the police officer on the street to high-level officials in Washington.

More biographical like most of the series. As regards Greeks philosphers that isnt too bad... entertaining book... but dont expect to come out of it much more "enlightened".

This book will give anyone a better idea of Plato's life, time, ideas, and work. Although Strathern does not reflect on the concepts and work of Plato to an extent of understanding his actual Philosophy, but he rather briefly gives quotes and hints as to provide a basic overview of his outlook on the world in general. If Strathern was in fact to give a more comprehensive account of the ideas and work of Plato the whole point of compacting Plato's life into a "90 minute" book would be gone. I myself had a very minute understanding of the man Plato. But from reading this book I found a lot of useful information that broadened my knowledge of the life and times of Plato. In reading this book you will meet some people that changed Plato's life, aswell as the treasured wisdom Plato handed to many individuals and to the whole of society. So for the amount of time it takes to read the book in contrast with the valuable information accessible, I give this book four stars.

This book is not, and was not meant to be, an in-depth analysis of the philosophy of Plato. It is a very brief overview of his life and works. I really appreciated the subtle humour which made the book fun to read.

Throughout Erich Robert Paul's text is the permeating influence of his perception that religion and science are fundamentally noncombative. Many readers will find his commitment to this thesis overbearing, and often the source of error in his presentation and conclusions.

The promotional information claims Paul's book will become a standard reference. However, I found it incomplete and something of a disappointment. This is not a general book about Mormonism and science. There is no discussion about the historicity of the Book of Mormon, or its scientific validity. Neither is there any discussion about the historicity of the Book of Abraham, or the Book of Moses. You will not find within its pages any discussion of the Mormon doctrine of a universal flood. Neither will you find any mention of a literal confusion of tongues, or recent (thousands of years ago) separation of the continents. (See, for example, the January 1998 issue of _The Ensign_.)

Admittedly, the author explains that he has limited the scope narrowly to an examination of Mormon cosmology. Even within this scope, however, the text is incomplete. There is no mention, for example, of the Mormon doctrine that God created the earth in another part of the universe, and moved it to its present orbit only recently after Adam's fall. This omission is especially surprising since the Pearl of Great Price, from which Paul draws much of his discussion, teaches this doctrine. It was also preached by Brigham Young, and has been promoted of late by the Church's official magazine. (See, for example, the March 1997 issue of _The Ensign_.)

Paul limits his discussion of Mormon cosmology almost exclusively to the concept of "worlds without number," and intelligent extraterrestrial life. He paints a picture of early America with widespread public discussion about astronomical pluralism and its challenges for Christian orthodoxy. One can almost feel the excitement of the debates and imagine the young Joseph Smith's mind racing with! new ideas. Reading Paul's description, we see Joseph Smith's new religion incorporating solutions not only for theological debates about baptism by immersion, but also for the latest discussions about ancient Hebrews populating the Western Continent and extraterrestrials on planets orbiting other suns. It comes as a surprise that after describing such a clear picture of Mormonism borrowing from local debates, customs, and ideas that Paul ends the chapter by saying:

"The idea that Joseph Smith may have borrowed from cultural sources cannot, of course, be totally discounted -- or confirmed." (See page 92).

Although Paul tries to focus strictly on aspects of Mormon cosmology, he felt obligated to discuss the church's acrimonious relationship with evolution, devoting over 20 pages to the debate. In discussing Mormonism and evolution, however, he has provided a rather biased point of view. This may result from his obvious association with Mormon apologists, many of whom participated in reviewing Paul's book. It is particularly disappointing that Paul spends so little time actually examining the content of Mormon scriptures, what they mean, and how they relate to evolution. Instead, he focuses an inordinate amount of attention upon the opinions of Mormon apologists, often to the exclusion of the public preaching of Mormon priesthood leaders, leaving the reader with a skewed view of the relationship between Mormonism and evolution.

Paul devotes considerable volume to discussions of four Mormon intellectuals (Orson Pratt, B.H. Roberts, John A Widtsoe, and Joseph F. Merrill) and how they dealt with their religion and its relationship with science. However, he virtually ignores the work of Marvin and Garfield Cook, in their book "Science and Mormonism" (Salt Lake City, Deseret News Press, 1967). This book, widely read among Mormons, attempts to reconcile science with the mostly literal, creationist-style arguments used by most Mormons. It seems surprising that Paul mentions their views (which were! arguably as influential as those of Pratt, Roberts, Widtsoe, and Merrill) only briefly in a terse paragraph in the bibliography.

Repeatedly, Paul asserts a non-literal and often ambiguous interpretation whenever Mormonism collides with science. For example, he believes Mormonism is compatible with the idea of death before Adam's fall. However, he never explains how to bring his view into alignment with Mormon scriptures such as 2 Nephi 2: 15, 22, which clearly state that there was no death before Adam's fall (and has been interpreted that way by Mormon prophets). Paul does the reader a disservice by simply stating that Mormonism is compatible with evolution (something with which most Mormons would disagree) without offering a rational interpretation that brings Mormon scriptures and science into harmony.

Paul's apparent eagerness to accommodate Mormon theology sometimes leads him to make extreme and unsubstantiated statements. For example, on page 157 he says:

"There is no real conflict between the Mosaic account of the creation and the nebular theory which is the most widely accepted among the prominent scientists." (See page 157.)

In reality, Joseph Smith taught the earth was created before the sun from the leftover components of destroyed planets. This is in profound disagreement with modern astronomical theory which says that material thrown out by super nova, and not recycled planets, is the raw material that formed the earth.

The book's final chapter deals with extraterrestrials and their relationship with Mormon cosmology. This chapter has the most science, and also deals most honestly with ideas within Mormon theology. Although not clearly stated, Paul seems to lean toward a view of directed evolution. The chapter on extraterrestrial life uses several tautological arguments. For example, on page 209 Paul says:

"Therefore, the likelihood of other civilizations having already broadcast seems quite large, assuming both the existence of such civilizations and the possibility ! that they have been transmitting for long periods of time."

Unfortunately, arguments such as these represent the rule, rather than the exception. Overall, however, I found the book interesting and worth my while. Though if I had it to do over again, I probably would not have purchased the book unless it was available in paperback, and 1/2 the current price.

Duwayne Anderson

As an LDS (Mormon) evolutionary biologist I found this a valuable contribution to understanding the history of scientific thinking in the Mormon community. The book is well written, researched and complete. I especially enjoyed the chapters that put early Mormon thinking in the context of debates between religion and science occurring in Europe and America after the publication of Darwin's "Origin of Species". I was surprised that some of the other LDS reviewers of this book were not aware that the Church has no official stand on the theory of Evolution (See the Encyclopedia of Mormonism entry on Evolution). As Galileo put it best: The scriptures teach us how to go to heaven, not how the heavens go. Paul is to be congratulated on a fine work.

Erich Robert Paul's _Science, Religion and Mormon Cosmology_ is a scholarly history not meant for the feebleminded, nor for those unfamiliar with the history of science and extensive LDS theology. Paul's book is intentionally geared for the intellectual audience and is a difficult read for those only interested in scriptural debate and might therefore disappoint the reader who has an incomplete comprehension of scientific history or LDS theology. This is one book that cannot be taken lightly and may be too heavy for some to handle. A word of warning to those only interested in reading a scriptural explanation, for this book is a substantial contribution to the library of Mormon intellectual history and not a simple reiteration of scriptural quotes. Without even a basic understanding of the argument that science and religion are non-combative, the reader will not comprehend the author's conclusions. Likewise, if the reader intends to find Mormon interpretation of scrip! ture or any discussion about the historicity of the Book of Mormon or other scripture, s/he will be disappointed. This book belongs to a category not among LDS church books but rather to an intellectual elite often criticized by those hoping to find an academic basis for their religious assertions concerning science.

Paul analyzes the complex relationships between science and LDS theology in a historical perspective, which allows the reader to to understand the cultural settings in which the relationships of science and religion have formed. This approach is critical to understanding the perceived conflicts between science and LDS theology. This may also help in understanding that the actual dilemma is more of a construct than real, which has come from the incomplete comprehension of science and theology.

In the first section entitled "Issues in Science and Religion," Paul is successful in showing the tentative character of modern science. In the second sect! ion, "Mormonism and Cosmology," he has focused on the influ! ence of LDS thinkers and leaders. Because the book's subject matter is quite dense, one might easily become disenchanted with Paul's chosen course of argument. This is especially true for Latter-day Saints who believe that the end of science will reveal the 'end all be all' of what and how it all happened, and therefore they will become defensive at such comments as "there is no conflict between 'true science' and 'true religion'." It is necessary to understand that this is exactly Paul's thesis and he carries out a well-organized discussion of such.

The Latter-day Saint who is more focused on the linear argument of science and religion, specifically that encompassed in the Church Educational System, will find this book not to their liking. However, this is not to suggest that they might not find it interesting and despite any personal differences of opinion with the author, they may find it quite provocative. This book, since the time of its publication, has ended ! up on syllabi at many universities including Brigham Young University. Thus, Paul has succeeded in permeating the intellectual community with his comprehensive views exactly as he intended.

Christina Schreiber

All basic idea about direct marketing that you must read.

This book takes the philosphy and strategy of direct marketing and translates it into an actionable plan. I found this book to be more advanced than most in explaining the concepts and giving good, practical advice that can be immediately implemented. I use it as a tool for new marketing professionals in my organization as well as for an evening class in Business to Business Marketing.

Having previously read "Netware Professional Reference" by Karanjit Siyan, I hoped this edition would follow in the same light. This book is a real help for network administrators as it gives good examples and solutions of day to day problems.

This book is designed as a reference not a study guide.This is one of the best Intranetware books I have read to date.

I have all of my "favorite places" marked for quick reference. The book is not organized to study for CNE exams. However, it has the information for Intranetware Network Administrators need for managing their networks. It contains a great index for quick look-ups.

To clarify my rating let me just comment briefly...

The first half of the book is five star quality, that is, the outline of Paul's missionary exploits through Acts. The second half, Reymond's systematic treatment of Pauline theology, is four stars. I went from reading Reymond's "New Systematic Theology" to this book, so in all honesty I was experiencing deja vu a bit. Had I not read the systematic before, I would probably give the second half 5 stars also.

The work of Reymond in this book is what you would expect from such an astute theologian. The various excursus' are insightful. And the amount of space given to them are neither too short nor too long; they are just right.

Bottom line: if you want a very readable, though challenging, book that will give you a great foundation of understanding for the missionary movements of Paul throughout Acts, this is your book. A caution is in order however... I felt convicted. The reader is challenged to really consider being a full-time, overseas, unreached people group, missionary.

If you appreciated Reymond's systematic theology, you will also appreciate this book. Based originally on his lecture notes, it has grown through several stages to the current publication. It's divided into two major parts. The first, "Paul's Missionary Labours", derives from his study of Acts and Paul's letters. He also argues for Pauline authorship of Hebrews. The second part of the book (Paul's Missionary Theology), treats major orthodox doctrines, based on Paul's writings. There is a thought provoking chapter at the end of this book, "Lessons from Paul's Ministry for Today's Missionaries". In it, I believe he underscores the necessity of sound doctrine as it relates to proclaiming the gospel to the nations. This book should be valuable to all who are interested in, or active in missions or evangelism in any way. There is an extensive bibliography, and scripture index which should be helpful for further study.

In light of recent documentary discoveries in a number of European archives, I had high hopes that this volume would further the body of research into the Rosicrucian movement. Ultimately, it did, but in ways I did not anticipate.

There are some essential works here (Joscelyn Godwin's excellent meditation on Michael Maier and Rafael T. Prinke's article on Michael Sendivogius immediately spring to mind: both of which demonstrate the varities of meaning Rosicrucianism took on to those who sought to perpetuate the movement in different contexts) but also much filler. Too many of the contributions collected in this volume re-state a body of knowledge familiar to all students of the subject. Due to the original format of these contributions (i.e., speeches) this knowledge is -understandably- not communicated in a particularly useful fashion.

Having said that, this volume is worth its price of entry. However the content is certainly a mixed bag.
Lastly, the translations of the Rosicrucian manifestos contained in this volume are those of Thomas Vaughan's mid 17th century edition of the Fama and Confessio .

Before the 'New Age' there was the "Rosicrucian Enlightenment". At the beginning of the 17th century, a new awakening was heralded throughout Europe, announcing the universal reform of all known areas of human activity - religion, science, art, and society were to become one being. The chief proponents of this great awakening were the mysterious "Rosicrucians". Nearly 400 years after the first seeds of this movement were planted, over 100 students, authors, and scholars of traditional Western esotericism, of which Rosicrucianism is the foremost exponent, gathered in the medieval town of Czesky Krumolv in the Czech Republic, to discuss, explore, and in someway, reopen the 'Vault of Christian Rosencreutz' once again.

"The Rosicrucian Enlightenment Revisited" contains nine essays on the early Rosicrucian movement presented at this landmark conference sponsored in part by The New York Open Center, and copies of the first two Rosicrucian Manifestoes, the "Fama" and the "Confessio". It is a great read and ideal for anyone interested in what is truly the heart and soul of Western esotericism - the Rosicrucian Enlightenment.

Comics like "Two-Fisted Science" serve nothing but a good purpose. They remind us that comics - like other art forms - can be about anything, and are not captives of the humor, fantasy and adventure genres.

A science-themed comic is especially appropriate, as the art-text combination inherent to comics would seem perfect for conveying complex/cosmic ideas. This collection features some terrific artists - notably Bernie Mireault, David Lasky, Colleen Doran and Sean Bieri - but I was a bit disappointed in the writing. Ottaviani's stories so intent on being unorthodox and different that they instead become meandering and confusing. Oftentimes I was unsure of what exactly was at stake for each story and why we should care about what was being told. And I would expect to actually learn more about SCIENCE in such a book. Also, the organization of the book into seemingly random sections, and the clumsy, unimaginative publication design diminished the effect.

I give the book high marks for effort, nice artwork, and the especially interesting portraits of Richard Feynman, but overall I'd rate "Two-Fisted Science" a noble failure.

We have given this book to various friends who have enjoyed the hard science topics in the 'comic book' format. We also have given it to nieces and nephews, who may not realize that they are being exposed to science and history. We can chat with them about it later, to see how much they have absorbed and to encourage them to reread it (comics are fun after all).

This book is pretty interesting, and I learned a lot about Satanism and all that. Check out this book if your interested in reading it. It was worth it to me.

I am a teacher and I had to teach a history class to my students on Colorado History. I went to the Library and picked up the book Beauty of Colorado. It has so many interesting facts about Colorado and beautiful pictures that I decided I wanted to buy the book for the school library. I liked the book because it was so infomative and had many facts about Colorado. Also the pictures were nice size and full color. It covered the mountains, parks,plains,some history,people and places of Colorado. It is a short book of 79 pages but out of that I got several days Colorado History lessons from it. If you were considering moving to Colorado or wanted to know where to visit, this book would be a good one to buy.