Verlag: e-artnow
Is Life Worth Living? is a philosophical rumination by essayist William James. Whether life is worth living or not is a constant red thread question in this book, while reasons for not committing suicide are also pondered.
The Constitutional Council is the embodiment of wisdom and is responsible for defending the rule of law and the individual freedoms of the French people, by censuring a law if it considers it unconstitutional. Discretionarily appointed by the three highest authorities of the State for a non-renewable nine-year term, its members are nevertheless the subject of much controversy: - This Institution is in fact the watchdog of the Head of State, and not of the rule of law; - Since its creation by General De Gaulle, its 92 members, most of them in their seventies, have been appointed based solely on political criteria or reasons of simple cronyism, old friendship, in gratitude for services rendered or simply on a whim. The General, Georges Pompidou, François Mitterrand, Jacques Chirac and Emmanuel Macron have appointed their close friends, often even their confidants (such as Richard Ferrand in 2025), to head the Constitutional Council. A pinnacle of insiders that does not bode well for the impartiality and independence of the nine judges. - To facilitate “the constitutional passage by force” or to validate campaign accounts that have been greatly exceeded, the head of state relies on the “Sages”. A reading of the archives of the minutes of the plenary sessions of the Constitutional Council now makes it possible to state that the nine “Sages” have regularly flouted the law for 67 years. France is the only country in the world where former heads of state sit on a Constitutional Court as ex officio and life members. Three parliamentary attempts have mysteriously failed to put an end to this incredible tradition. Nicolas Sarkozy, still “Wise” for life, is now wearing an electronic bracelet because of his multiple convictions. It has also come to light that the remuneration of the Wise Men, whether or not they sit on the court, has remained illegal for 24 years. The “Sages” perform a moderate job with a comfortable income (22,000 to 32,000 euros), which they can combine with several pensions, completely illegally. This serious journalistic investigation, written by one of the most renowned journalists in this field, reveals an impressive number of worrying and aberrant dysfunctions of this supreme and very “political” regulator of our democracy. Protected by a court spirit violently hostile to any transparency, the “Wise Men” dangerously fuel the ambient populism and the growing lack of confidence of the French in their elites.Zum Buch
In A Brief History On The Black Death, we embark on a gripping journey through one of humanity's most devastating catastrophes—the Black Death. This meticulously researched and engaging book offers a concise yet comprehensive account of the infamous pandemic that swept across Europe in the 14th century, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Drawing from a vast array of historical sources and scholarly research, this captivating exploration delves into the origins, spread, and impact of the Black Death with meticulous detail. From its mysterious beginnings in Asia to the tumultuous consequences that reshaped societies, you will uncover the eerie chain of events that unleashed this merciless plague upon unsuspecting populations. Immerse yourself in a gripping narrative that vividly describes the harrowing experiences of individuals and communities during the height of the epidemic. Walk alongside doctors and healers who battled against a seemingly unstoppable enemy, witness the panic and despair that gripped cities and towns, and glimpse the profound societal transformations that emerged from the ashes. But this book is not merely a somber account of suffering and devastation. It also offers a treasure trove of intriguing trivia and lesser-known facts that shed light on the Black Death's multifaceted impact. Discover curious anecdotes, bizarre medical treatments, and superstitions that emerged in response to the plague. Explore the unprecedented socio-economic changes it catalyzed, the transformative impact on religious beliefs, and the lasting effects on art, literature, and culture.Zum Buch
Step back into a time when gods ruled the skies, rivers, and underworlds—when mythology explained the mysteries of life and divine beings shaped the destiny of empires. Ancient Deities brings together the awe-inspiring pantheons of three of the world’s earliest and most influential civilizations: Egypt, Sumer, and Rome. Begin your journey in the Nile Valley with Ancient Egyptian Gods, where deities like Ra, Osiris, and Isis governed life, death, and rebirth through intricate rituals and symbolism. Travel east to the cradle of civilization with Sumerian Gods and Heroes, uncovering powerful figures such as Enlil, Inanna, and the legendary Gilgamesh. Finally, explore the mythic heart of an empire in Roman Gods and Legends, where Jupiter, Mars, and Venus reflected both divine might and human ambition. This 3-in-1 volume is perfect for lovers of mythology, ancient history enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the enduring power of gods and legends in shaping early human culture.Zum Buch
Liberia’s oligarchy: The beginning of the end.2019 Grand Prize Winner - Red City ReviewBased on the remarkable true account of a young American who landed in Liberia in 1961.The story weaves drama, dark comedy, and romance throughout a rich tapestry of narration - The San Francisco Book ReviewKEN VERRIER IS NOT HAPPY, NOR AT PEACE. He is experiencing the turbulence of Ishmael and the guilt of his brother's death. His sudden decision to drop out of college and deal with his demons shocks his family, his friends, and especially his girlfriend, soon to have been his fiancee. His destination: Liberia - The richest country in Africa both in monetary wealth and in natural resources.NOTHING COULD HAVE PREPARED HIM FOR THE EXPERIENCES HE WAS ABOUT TO LIVE THROUGH. Ken quickly realizes that he has arrived in a place where he understands very little of what is considered normal, where the dignity of life has little meaning, and where he can trust no one.Flying into the interior bush as a transport pilot, Ken learns quickly. He witnesses, first-hand, the disparate lives of the Liberian "Country People? and the "Congo People" also known as Americo-Liberians. These descendants of President Monroe's American Colonization Policy that sent freed slaves back to Africa in the 1800's have set up a strict hierarchical society not unlike the antebellum South.Author Dan Meier describes Ken's many escapades, spanning from horrifying to whimsical, with engaging and fast-moving narrative that ultimately describes a society upon which the wealthy are feeding and in which the poor are being buried.It's a novel that will stay with you long after the last word has been read.Zum Buch
If you are interested in knowing how to take an inner journey, how to find your soul - read on! In these talks, Osho introduces his audience to Zen, with its emphasis on being alert and attentive to the simplest acts of ordinary life as a way to experience meditation. Zen stories serve as starting points for several talks in the series, illuminating the nature of that rare human capacity to transcend the limits of the rational mind. As often happens with Osho, the talks oscillate between commentaries on selected texts, in this case some beautiful anecdotes from the world of Zen, and questions from disciples and other seekers. And, as always, Osho's interest is not scholarly at all but existential: how to point us toward the "Beyondness" from which he speaks. Although Zen tradition was certainly the one closest to his heart, Osho was independent of all traditions. In fact during the last year of his life, he talked exclusively about Zen, albeit a more relaxed, humorous form than the traditional rather rigid and disciplined monastic version. Osho always emphasized that the real important thing was not what he was saying but the gaps, the profound silence between the words, and that one should listen to him like to the wind playing with the leaves, or like listening to music. In this series you will come across a wide spectrum of views and questions related to the human search for higher dimensions of life. And it's certainly a beautiful finger pointing to the moon of truth beyond words and concepts. He takes us into a space from which the existential jump to meditation can happen. The moment when the eternal perfection opens up, the moment all you can say is, "Ah this!" - The Heart of Knowing Is Now - Neti Neti - I Am Higher - Dying Into the Master - See Right at Once - Try It My Way - Take No Notice - Not Knowing Is the Most Intimate © & ℗1980 OSHO International FoundationZum Buch
In the turbulent world of Chicago politics, Boss dives deep into the captivating life and legacy of Richard J. Daley, the influential politician and mastermind behind the city's Democratic Party machine. Mike Royko's scathing and meticulously researched account follows Richard J. Daley's rise to power, from his inauspicious youth on Chicago's South Side through his rapid climb to the seat of power as the city's mayor. This engrossing biography brings to life the most powerful political figure of his time. With witty insight and unwavering honesty, Royko unveils Daley's controversial tactics, his laissez-faire policy toward corruption, and his unprecedented influence as a "kingmaker." From milestone achievements to cardinal sins, this eye-opening biography paints a vivid portrait of Daley, making Boss a must-listen for history buffs, political enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the inner workings of power. Uncover the secrets and the undeniable legacy of the last of the backroom Caesars in this compelling portrait of politics and power. This new edition includes an introduction in which the author reflects on Daley's death and the future of Chicago.Zum Buch
