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For the past century and a half, extensive looting and illicit trafficking of Southeast Asia's cultural heritage have scattered art objects from the region to museums and private collections around the world. Today, however, power relations are shifting, a new awareness is growing, and new questions are emerging about the representation and ownership of Southeast Asian cultural material located in the West. This book offers a timely consideration of object restitution and related issues across Southeast Asia, bringing together a range of viewpoints, including those of museum professionals and scholars in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, as well as Europe, North America, and Australia. The contributors address legal, cultural, political and diplomatic issues involved in the restitution process, and they also look at the ways object restitution is integral to evolving narratives of national identity. Ultimately, the book’s editors conclude, restitution processes can transform narratives of loss into opportunities for gain, building knowledge and reconstructing relationships across national borders.
If you're someone who is passionate about global politics and the complexities of international aid, "Fixing Failed States" might just provide you with a fresh perspective. Insightful and authoritative, the book draws on real-world experiences, confronting challenging issues with an optimism that's both inspiring and grounded in practical knowledge. It’s a critical read for anyone interested in the intricacies of nation-building and the ways in which we can collectively work towards a more stable worldwide community.
This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the intricate social dynamics of colonial Malaya. Donna J. Amoroso delves deep into the traditional social structures and the rise of the Malay ruling class, unraveling a nuanced narrative that sheds light on the complexities of power and identity during that time period. With meticulous research and a compelling writing style, this book offers a captivating exploration of an often overlooked aspect of colonial history.
Curiosity - How Science Became Interested In Everything - Thryft
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Dive into the world of scientific curiosity with "Curiosity - How Science Became Interested In Everything." Philip Ball takes readers on a fascinating journey through the history and development of scientific inquiry, revealing how curiosity has shaped our understanding of the world. From ancient to modern times, this book delves into the inquisitive nature of scientists and the transformative power of curiosity. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the inner workings of scientific exploration, this book is a must-read for anyone eager to uncover the profound impact of curiosity on human knowledge.
Neoliberalism as Exception : Mutations in Citizenship and Sovereignty - Thryft
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This book is a must-read for anyone curious about how neoliberalism shapes the world we live in. Through captivating case studies, Aihwa Ong reveals the surprising ways in which different regimes adapt and manipulate the neoliberal agenda to exert control and compete globally. By shedding light on the exceptions and transformations that occur within governing practices, Ong unravels the complex relationship between power, knowledge, and citizenship. Prepare to question the traditional boundaries of sovereignty and discover the emergence of an interactive mode of citizenship that values marketable skills over national identity.
Problems Of Ethnomusicology - Thryft
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This book is a treasure trove for music and sociology enthusiasts who want to dive deep into the world of ethnomusicology. Brailoiu's writings, painstakingly translated by A. L. Lloyd, offer valuable insights into the theoretical aspects of the field. What sets this book apart is Brailoiu's open-minded approach, as he seamlessly navigates both musicological and sociological problems. Whether you are an aspiring ethnomusicologist or simply curious about the cultural significance of music, this indispensable collection is a must-read that sheds light on a lesser-known yet vital discipline.
This book is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about Indian music and wants to understand its cultural and social significance. Through captivating fieldwork and interviews, Daniel M. Neuman provides a deep dive into the world of North Indian Hindustani music. With a keen focus on the changing landscape of the music industry, the book highlights the resilience and adaptability of musicians in the face of modernization. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a researcher, this book will leave you with a profound appreciation for the rich artistic tradition of India.
Invisible Countries : Journeys to the Edge of Nationhood - Thryft
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This book is perfect for anyone intrigued by the idea of what defines a country. Through captivating stories and insightful interviews, the author challenges conventional notions of nationhood and takes you on a journey to the less-known corners of the world. Explore the struggles and aspirations of self-proclaimed countries and indigenous communities, and gain a deeper understanding of the complex forces shaping our global landscape. With thought-provoking analysis, this book will undoubtedly broaden your perspective on geopolitics and the concept of identity.
Building A New Legal Order For The Oceans - Thryft
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Dive into this insightful book by Tommy Koh, a key figure in the UNCLOS negotiation process. With his unique perspective, he explores the concepts and tensions that shape today's Law of the Sea. From the intricacies of maritime security to the disputes in the South China Sea, Koh delves into the challenges and opportunities in building a new legal order for our oceans. A must-read for anyone interested in international law and the future of our seas.
Humanism: A Very Short Introduction - Thryft
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Stephen Law | Oxford University Press

Humanism: A Very Short Introduction

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This book could be a good read for someone curious about humanism and its role in today's society. Stephen Law explores the concept in a concise and accessible manner, debunking common misconceptions and showing how humanism uses science and reason to make sense of the world. Through his exploration of the arguments for and against the existence of God, Law highlights how humanism offers a positive alternative to traditional religious belief, emphasizing individual moral responsibility and the possibility of finding meaning in life without relying on religion.
Rage And Time - A Psychopolitical Investigation - Thryft
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This book is a must-read for those interested in understanding the role of rage in shaping the course of Western civilization. With compelling examples from literature and recent events, Peter Sloterdijk challenges the prevailing notion that rage can be controlled or subdued. He presents a new perspective that recognizes the power of rage and proposes harnessing it for productive political change. In a world increasingly gripped by intense emotions, this book offers valuable insights for navigating the complexities of anger and conflict in the modern age.
The Politics - Thryft
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This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how societies are organized and governed. Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers in history, provides deep insights into the workings of political systems. His analysis, drawn from his extensive knowledge of Greek city-states, remains relevant and thought-provoking even today. This edition, with its accessible introduction and clear notes, ensures that readers can easily grasp the historical and philosophical significance of this influential text. Get ready to be enlightened by Aristotle's timeless wisdom on successful constitutions and the art of governance.
Insider Terrorism - Thryft
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Recommendation: - This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex nature of terrorism and its evolution over time. Bruce Hoffman does an exceptional job in dissecting the motivations, methods, and ideologies behind terrorist groups, challenging our preconceived notions. The book also delves into the role of media in promoting and combating terrorism, shedding light on the intricate relationship between politics, power, and the press. By exploring real-life examples and case studies, Hoffman provides valuable insights that will leave readers with a deeper understanding of this pressing global issue.
Islam - Thryft
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John L. Esposito | Oxford University Press, Usa

Islam

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This updated version of The Straight Path includes a new Epilogue by John Esposito in which he addresses the impact 9/11 and its aftermath have had on both the Muslim and non-Muslim world, discussing Islam's relationship to democracy and modernity and focusing more sharply on theorigins and growth of extremism and terrorism in the name of Islam.This exceptionally successful survey text introduces the faith, belief, and practice of Islam from its earliest origins up to its contemporary resurgence. Esposito, an internationally renowned expert on Islam, traces the development of this dynamic faith and its impact on world history andpolitics, discussing the formation of Islamic belief and practice and chronicling the struggle of Muslims to define and adhere to their Islamic way of life. Lucidly written and expansive in scope, The Straight Path provides keen insight into one of the world's least understood religions andis ideally suited for use in courses on Islam, comparative religions, and Middle Eastern history and culture.
Counterinsurgency - Thryft
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David Kilcullen | Oxford University Press

Counterinsurgency

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Goodreads rating: 4.06

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David Kilcullen is one of the world's most influential experts on counterinsurgency and modern warfare, a ground-breaking theorist whose ideas "are revolutionizing military thinking throughout the west" ( Washington Post ). Indeed, his vision of modern warfare powerfully influenced the United States' decision to rethink its military strategy in Iraq and implement "the Surge," now recognized as a dramatic success. In Counterinsurgency , Kilcullen brings together his most salient writings on this vitally important topic. Here is a picture of modern warfare by someone who has had his boots on the ground in some of today's worst trouble spots-including Iraq and Afghanistan-and who has been studying counterinsurgency since 1985. Filled with down-to-earth, common-sense insights, this book is the definitive account of counterinsurgency, indispensable for all those interested in making sense of our world in an age of terror.
This book is a comprehensive examination of war throughout history, analyzing the strategic characteristics and political and social functions of conflicts. It offers a broad perspective on war, featuring essays on major theorists, political and military leaders, and even impersonal forces. The book not only explores the theory and practice of war but also places military thought and action within their political, social, and economic contexts. With its diverse themes and historical insights, this book is ideal for anyone interested in understanding the complex nature of war throughout the ages.
Recommendation: 1. This book provides a captivating insider's view of the U.S. government's strategy in response to the 2007-2009 global financial crisis. Through the perspectives of the key decision-makers involved, it offers an unparalleled understanding of the internal debates, policy solutions, and the evaluation of successes and failures. If you're interested in unraveling the complexities of this critical period in history and gaining valuable insights for navigating future financial calamities, this book is a must-read. 2. The firsthand accounts from policymakers who led the government's response to the crisis make this book an invaluable historical document. It sheds light on the extraordinary measures taken by the Treasury Department, the Federal Reserve, and other agencies to stabilize the financial system and the economy during this crucial period. Whether you're a student of history or someone seeking lessons for navigating future crises, this book provides unprecedented insight into the decision-making process and offers a comprehensive understanding of the global financial crisis.
Nations And Nationalism Since 1780 - Programme, Myth, Reality - Thryft
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Recommendation: - If you're curious about the origins and evolution of nationalism and want to understand its impact on the world, "Nations And Nationalism Since 1780 - Programme, Myth, Reality" is a must-read. Hobsbawm brilliantly dissects the intricacies of nationalism, providing insights into its historical context and its influence on modern politics. This book offers a compelling analysis that will broaden your understanding of this complex phenomenon.
Culture And Society In New Order Indonesia - Thryft
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In power since 1965, Indonesia's New Order government has formulated distinctive policies for cultural development. What effect have these policies had on individual artists and on art forms? This collection of fifteen essays explores the theme in the areas of literature, drama, film,television, painting, contemporary art, architecture, music, and language. The essays touch on current debates about the role of the artist in Indonesian society and discuss recent trends in the various genres.
Exceptional People - How Migration Shaped Our World And Will Define Our Future - Thryft
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Exceptional People is a thought-provoking book that challenges the conventional wisdom around migration. With its comprehensive exploration of the historical and current impact of migration, the book sheds light on the advantages and opportunities it brings to both countries and individuals. By presenting practical recommendations for governance and emphasizing the need to embrace international mobility, Exceptional People paves the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. If you are interested in understanding the profound influence of migration on our world and how it will shape our future, this book is a must-read.
In Defense Of Globalization - Thryft
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Jagdish N. Bhagwati | Oxford University Press

In Defense Of Globalization

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- This book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of globalization. Bhagwati presents a compelling argument, backed by his expertise as an economist, that globalization, with proper governance, can bring about significant positive change in the world. His insights shed light on the social impact of globalization and challenge commonly held misconceptions. - Bhagwati's book stands out for its rigor and clarity, making it accessible to both experts and those new to the subject. Through his persuasive and well-reasoned arguments, he addresses the concerns and criticisms surrounding globalization, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective. Whether you are a student, a policy-maker, or simply curious about the topic, this book will broaden your horizons and challenge your preconceptions.
Science : A Four Thousand Year History - Thryft
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Patricia Fara | Oxford University Press

Science : A Four Thousand Year History

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Recommendation: - This book offers a refreshing perspective on the history of science by focusing on the practical world rather than abstract theories. It reveals the true stories of real scientists, their mistakes, and their quest for success, challenging the notion of scientific supremacy. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the human side of scientific progress, this captivating journey through science's practical history is a must-read.
Gamelan - Cultural Interaction And Musical Development In Central Java - Thryft
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This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding the rich history and cultural significance of the gamelan. Sumarsam takes us on a journey through time, tracing the evolution of this unique music ensemble and shedding light on the diverse influences that have shaped its development. With meticulous research and insightful analysis, the author presents a comprehensive study that is both informative and engaging. Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply curious about the cultural interactions of Central Java, this book is a must-read.
What We Owe to Each Other
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This book provides a unique perspective on morality by arguing that our actions should be justified to others and could not be reasonably rejected. It explores the concept of moral obligations and responsibilities, and how they arise from relationships with others. It challenges conventional views about reasons, value and well-being, while accounting for pluralism in moral and non-moral values, making it a must-read for anyone interested in moral philosophy.
The Selfish Gene: 30th Anniversary Edition
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The Selfish Gene is an excellent read for those interested in evolutionary biology and genetics. Dawkins argues that genes are the driving force behind evolution, and organisms are just vehicles for their replication. Through this perspective, Dawkins explains complex biological concepts in a simple and accessible way. The Selfish Gene is a thought-provoking book that challenges traditional views on evolution and is sure to spark debate and curiosity among readers.
The Spanish Inquisition : A Historical Revision - Thryft
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If you're interested in Spanish history, religion, or just want a riveting read, this book is for you! Kamen provides a meticulously researched, nuanced view on the Spanish Inquisition that goes beyond popular myths. His analysis of how the Inquisition impacted Spanish intellectual life and the broader social context is insightful and thought-provoking.
This book is an in-depth look into the life of Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, providing a fascinating insight into the country's revered monarch. Handley's biography balances the king's impressive accomplishments with critical analysis of the country's political climate during his reign. If you're interested in history, political figures or Thailand's monarchy, this book is sure to keep you engaged.
The New Zealand Macroeconomy : A Briefing on the Reforms and Their Legacy - Thryft
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This book is a good read for anyone interested in the economic history of New Zealand, and how it compares to other developed economies. The author provides a clear overview of the reforms that transformed the New Zealand economy in the 1980s and 1990s, and evaluates their long-term impact on economic growth, income distribution, and social welfare. The book is well-structured and easy to read, and provides a balanced assessment of the costs and benefits of the reforms. Readers will appreciate the clarity of the exposition and the insights into the policy choices that determined the fate of the New Zealand economy.
The Oxford Illustrated History of Ireland - Thryft
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The Oxford Illustrated History of Ireland is an excellent read for those interested in the rich and diverse history of Ireland, blending ancient mythology and modern history. Written by distinguished Irish historians, the book provides an accessible synthesis of Irish history from pre-Christian times to the present day. The book examines the contested question of Irish identity and its relation to language. Its distinctive feature is the exploration of the patterns of fragmentation and change that have been characteristic of Ireland's past. The book is enhanced by over 200 pictures in color and black and white, making it an ideal choice for anyone interested in the history and culture of Ireland.
Seven Theories of Human Society - Thryft
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Tom Campbell | Oxford University Press

Seven Theories of Human Society

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This book is perfect for anyone interested in sociology or anthropology. It provides a clear and concise overview of the most important contributors to these fields. Each chapter dives deep into the theories put forth by some of the most influential thinkers in history. The author presents their ideas in a well-organized manner, making them easy to follow and understand. Overall, this is a must-read for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of human society and its workings.
AIDS and Accusation : Haiti and the Geography of Blame - Thryft
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This book could be a good read for people who want to understand how social inequalities such as poverty, racism, and ethnocentrism create a ripple effect in epidemics such as AIDS. It is a thought-provoking analysis of the relationship between social factors and public health outcomes, using the case of AIDS in Haiti as an example. Through his ethnographic study, author Paul Farmer underscores the importance of recognizing the role of systemic inequality in disease spread, which gives readers a much-required global perspective on HIV/AIDS.
Empire - Thryft
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Antonio Negri, Michael Hardt  | Harvard University Press

Empire

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Empire by Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri is an in-depth analysis of the new political order of globalization. It offers a philosophical transformation that is essential for modern politics, identifying a shift in concepts centring sovereignty, nation and people. Additionally, it introduces alternative political paradigms that can form the basis for a democratic global society. The analysis includes cultural and economic changes in postmodern society, networks of communication and control, transnational corporations and the increasing use of post-industrial labor and production. It is an excellent read for anyone seeking to understand globalization and the global political economy.
This book could be a valuable read for those interested in the history of the Malayan Communist Party. The unique feature of this book is the presentation of history as dialogue and debate, which offers a well-rounded perspective of both sides of the conflict. This book also includes previously unseen Communist Party documents and propaganda posters, which enhance the reader's understanding of this historical period.
The French Revolution: A Very Short Introduction - Thryft
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This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts who wish to gain insights into one of the most significant events in modern European history. William Doyle carefully examines the causes, course, and consequences of the French Revolution in a concise and accessible manner. The book sheds light on the genesis of modern political ideologies like democracy, liberalism, and nationalism and their relationship with the revolution. It provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges that the revolutionaries faced and the compromises they had to make to effect change. Doyle's erudition and mastery of the subject make this book an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the French Revolution and its impact on the world.
From the Soil : The Foundations of Chinese Society - Thryft
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"From the Soil" offers a rare Chinese perspective on the distinguishing traits of Western and Chinese societies through Fei's in-depth analytical approach. This book is perfect for those interested in sociology and history, and seeks a fresh perspective on how society is shaped and organized differently across cultures.
This book is a must-read for military personnel and historians who want to understand the challenges of insurgencies and counterinsurgencies. It provides a comprehensive guide to the principles of counterinsurgency warfare that emphasize adaptation, learning, and understanding local politics and customs. The manual also highlights the paradoxical and counterintuitive nature of counterinsurgency operations, making it a valuable tool for those dealing with modern warfare.
The Ethnography of Reading - Thryft
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This book could be a good read for someone interested in the cultural and historical transformations of reading, and its impact on societies. It provides insights on reading practices and experiences in different parts of the world, from ancient Israel to contemporary Indonesia and Kashaya Pomo Indian reservation. The book erases the line between orality and textuality, making it an insightful read for those interested in anthropology, literature, history, philosophy, religious and cultural studies.
No One's World : The West, the Rising Rest, and the Coming Global Turn - Thryft
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No One's World is a great read for those interested in understanding the shifting global geopolitical landscape. Charles A. Kupchan challenges the commonly held belief that the Western bubble will never burst. He emphasizes that the world is headed for political and ideological diversity and emerging powers will not defer to the West. This book can be recommended to anyone interested in politics and global affairs, as it provides a detailed strategy for striking a bargain between the West and the rising rest.
The Great Rebalancing : Trade, Conflict, and the Perilous Road Ahead for the World Economy - Thryft
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"The Great Rebalancing" provides a clear and insightful exploration of the global economy, debunking popular misconceptions about trade imbalances and their effects. Pettis provides readers with a deep dive into the policies behind these destabilizing factors and their potential for economic dislocations that could last for years to come. This book is recommended for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of the global economy and how seemingly disparate issues are actually closely intertwined.
Normal Accidents : Living with High Risk Technologies - Updated Edition - Thryft
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This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how complex technological systems fail. Perrow's framework of analyzing risks based on complexity and coupling is unique, and his case studies of major accidents such as Chernobyl and the Challenger disaster offer valuable insights into the social dynamic of technological risk. Perrow's discussion of the Y2K computer problem may seem dated, but his analysis of the conditions that lead to "normal accidents" remains relevant today. Overall, Normal Accidents is a fascinating and thought-provoking book that will make readers rethink their assumptions about safety and risk in our increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Cosmology: A Very Short Introduction - Thryft
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Written in simple and accessible language, this non-technical introduction to cosmology, or the creation and development of the universe, explains the discipline, covers its history, details the latest developments, and explains what is known, what is believed, and what is purely speculative. In addition, the author discusses the development of the Big Bang theory, and more speculative modern issues like quantum cosmology, superstrings, and dark matter.About the Series: Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.
Modeled after the classic Sources of Chinese Tradition, Sources of Japanese Tradition, and Sources of Indian Tradition, this collection of seminal primary readings in the social, intellectual, and religious traditions of Korea from the sixteenth century to the present day lays the groundwork for understanding Korean civilization and demonstrates how leading intellectuals and public figures in Korea have looked at life, the traditions of their ancestors, and the world they lived in.The selections range from the mid- and late Chosôn dynasty in the sixteenth century, through the encounter with the West and imperialist Japan in the late ninteenth and early twentieth centuries, to the political and cultural events in South and North Korea since 1945―ending with President Kim Taejung's 1998 inaugural address.
From their acclaimed biographer, a final, powerful book about how Emerson, Thoreau, and William James forged resilience from devastating loss, changing the course of American thoughtIn Three Roads Back , Robert Richardson, the author of magisterial biographies of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and William James, tells the connected stories of how these foundational American writers and thinkers dealt with personal tragedies early in their careers. For Emerson, it was the death of his young wife and, eleven years later, his five-year-old son; for Thoreau, it was the death of his brother; and for James, it was the death of his beloved cousin Minnie Temple. Filled with rich biographical detail and unforgettable passages from the journals and letters of Emerson, Thoreau, and James, these vivid and moving stories of loss and hard-fought resilience show how the writers’ responses to these deaths helped spur them on to their greatest work, influencing the birth and course of American literature and philosophy.In reaction to his traumatic loss, Emerson lost his Unitarian faith and found solace in nature. Thoreau, too, leaned on nature and its regenerative power, discovering that “death is the law of new life,” an insight that would find expression in Walden . And James, following a period of panic and despair, experienced a redemptive conversion and new ideas that would drive his work as a psychologist and philosopher. As Richardson shows, all three emerged from their grief with a new way of seeing, one shaped by a belief in what Emerson called “the deep remedial force that underlies all facts.”An inspiring book about resilience and the new growth and creativity that can stem from devastating loss, Three Roads Back is also an extraordinary account of the hidden wellsprings of American thought.
Comparative Musicology and Anthropology of Music - Thryft
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This book would be a valuable read for musicologists and ethnomusicologists who are interested in exploring the theoretical and methodological foundations of the discipline. It provides a critical analysis of the field's history and explores new directions in theory and analysis. Overall, this book is an enriching collection of articles that offers fascinating insights into the field of ethnomusicology.
"The Death of Expertise" is a must-read for those who seek an understanding of the current state of modern democracy and the role expertise plays within it. Tom Nichols delves into the societal gains that have enabled the surge in misguided intellectual egalitarianism, which has in turn, produced an army of ill-informed and angry citizens who denounce intellectual achievement. Nichols' warning of the danger that the rejection of expertise poses on modern democracy is both insightful and thought-provoking. It is a call to action for each of us to question what we "know" and to regain an appreciation for the value of expertise.
The crowded, bustling, 'squatter' kampongs so familiar across Southeast Asia have long since disappeared from Singapore, leaving few visible traces of their historical influence on the life in the city-state. In one such settlement, located in an area known as Bukit Ho Swee, a great fire in 1961 destroyed the kampong and left 16,000 people homeless, creating a national emergency that led to the first big public housing project of the new Housing and Development Board (HDB). HDB flats now house more than four-fifths of the Singapore population, making the aftermath of the Bukit Ho Swee fire a seminal event in modern Singapore.Loh Kah Seng grew up in one-room rental flats in the HDB estate built after the fire. Drawing on oral history interviews, official records and media reports, he describes daily life in squatter communities and how people coped with the hazard posed by fires. His examination of the catastrophic events of 25 May 1961 and the steps taken by the new government of the People's Action Party in response to the disaster show the immediate consequences of the fire and how relocation to public housing changed the people's lives. Through a narrative that is both vivid and subtle, the book explores the nature of memory and probes beneath the hard surfaces of modern Singapore to understand the everyday life of the people who live in the city.
The Oxford Book of Oxford - Thryft
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Jan Morris | Oxford University Press

The Oxford Book of Oxford

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"The Oxford Book of Oxford" is an intimate introduction to one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities. It offers a comprehensive look at the university's history and many eccentric figures. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in Oxford, its history, or higher education in general. Its unique feature is the varied perspectives from a range of authors, from Anthony Wood to Thomas Hardy, compiled by Jan Morris.
Ross Dunn here recounts the great traveler's remarkable career, interpreting it within the cultural and social context of Islamic society and giving the reader both a biography of an extraordinary personality and a study of the hemispheric dimensions of human interchange in medieval times.
Rethinking Working-Class History : Bengal 1890-1940 - Thryft
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Dipesh Chakrabarty | Princeton University Press

Rethinking Working-Class History : Bengal 1890-1940

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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This book is a must-read for those interested in the labor movement in Calcutta and the challenges faced by jute-mill workers from 1890 to 1940. Dipesh Chakrabarty's use of a sensitive documentary method to study the experiences of workers and their bosses is impressive. His critique of emancipatory narratives and their relationship to Marxist categories challenges traditional Marxist historiography. Chakrabarty's examination of the milieu of jute-mill workers and the way it influenced their capacity for class solidarity and "revolutionary" action will fascinate those who want to delve deeper into the subject.
House Home Family : Living and Being Chinese - Thryft
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Drawing on the work of leading scholars in the fields of anthropology, architecture, art, art history, geography, and history, House Home Family explores and analyzes the functional, social, and symbolic attributes of Chinese dwellings. It goes beyond generalization to clarify the diverse nature of house, home, and family in China, exploring such topics as the Chinese garden as an integral part of living, house-building ritual and fengshui, architectural aesthetics, the inter-relatedness of furniture and architecture, preservation of historical structures, the structure and development of the family (jia), gender and household space, the role of lineage in the construction of ritual and social space, the function and meaning of the architectural division of space, and domestic space and privacy. The Chinese house, the elementary space in which a family lives and works, resonates the tensions between continuity and innovation that characterize China today. As a dynamic instrument of socialization and a domain of propriety, its "inner" and "outer" spaces as well as ornamentation and ritual helped shape the identity of the Chinese and simultaneously serve as a reflection of this identity. This inaugural volume in the series Spatial Making and Meaning in Asia’s Vernacular Architecture contains more than five hundred illustrations, most in color and including a number of rare drawings that demonstrate the richness of domestic architecture and living patterns in traditional and contemporary China. Through its exploration of how Chinese families are organized and why Chinese construct their living spaces the way they do, this carefully researched, convincingly argues, and refreshingly insightful book yields a deeper and wider understanding of what it means to live and be Chinese. Nancy Berliner, Maggie Bickford, Francesca Bray, Myron L. Cohen, David Faure, James Flath, Wen Fong, Puaypeng Ho, Nancy Jervis, Ronald G. Knapp, Cary Liu, Kai-Yin Lo, Nancy Shatzman Steinhardt, Joseph Wang, Yan Yunxiang.