Eastern University Books

This is a very well-written book by an author who thinks deeply about the essence of society. His vocabulary is formidable, but his conclusions are remarkably well thought out. He uses Moab in the Bronze and Iron Ages, a rather small set of societies in a limited area with relatively few artifacts, to show how states were not what we imagine them to be. Extrapolation of his thoughts to the rest of the Middle East at the time certainly changes ones view of biblical history. The author is a precise archeologist and the reader wishes there was more material left from Moab in the Iron Age for him to analyze and discuss. This is not a page-turner, but there is a great satisfaction in understanding his arguments and feeling you know what is known about the Age and location.

I.M. Lewis is the recognized expert on Somali cultural anthropology. He presents detailed and accurate information on clan and family structure that aids in understanding issues facing the culture (and nation/s) today.

This book is both instructive and enjoyable at the same time. It contains useful information on the history of not only architecture but also on the social life in modern Turkey. Readers will enjoy the rare collection of numerous pictures and photos that are difficult to find elsewhere. It is a wonderful resource for not only Turkish people and for architects, but also for all foreigners who are interested in this country. Following the Independence War and the establishment of the Republic, a new and modern nation was built on the ruins of The Ottoman Empire and this book tells us how this was achieved.

Recommended for people who are interested in the subject but also for those in Golden Horde history. Very detailed and first sourses oriented. Good job.

Professor Palmer's book on one part of the Tur Abdin's rich Syrian Orthodox heritage is an absolutely superb work of scholarship as well as a precious testimony to the passing of an ancient and historic Christian community.

Written by John A. Strong, professor emeritus of history at Southampton College of Long Island University and noted authority on the Indians of Long Island, The Montaukett Indians Of Eastern Long Island is the true story of one of the first Native American tribes to contact and establish relations with the English in the seventeenth century. Covering the first meeting and clash of cultures in the 1600's down to the modern day, The Montaukett Indians Of Eastern Long Island is a concise history that covers issues of cultural assimilation, political problems, social tensions, and recurring patterns of economic dependency among the Montaukett. A handful of black-and-white photographs and illustrations add a visual touch to this valuable contribution to Native American studies shelves, focusing on an oft- overlooked tribe that has nonetheless played a crucial role in American history.

An excellent sequel to the classic "Words Like Arrows" continuing to combine academic standard and popular interest. If you liked the first book then don't miss out on this one. If you missed the first book (out of print) then this edition will provide you with a good insight into Yiddish though, humour and folklore.

This is a very comprehensive set. This is a very useful key with invaluable drawings.

In fact, according to the translator's notes, the voice is so distinct from other Chinese tradition that some claimed Mozi was not Chinese at all.

Mozi's philosophy was based on universal love, treating everyone with the respect due to one's family. In Confucian China, this was a radical and subversive notion. It undermined the traditional notions of filial piety, even social hierarchy, since it eliminated the special status of one's own parents in the web of personal relationships.

He compounded the breach of filial piety by insisting on small, inexpensive funerals and brief mourning periods, also in the name of universal love. Mozi believed completely in the spirits of the dead and in honoring them properly. He believed even more strongly in supporting "the people," usually meaning the farming classes. Confucian funeral garb, coffins, and rituals inflicted staggering costs, and harsh mourning practices literally endangered the mourner's health. Mozi's utilitarian philosophy required that wealth be used to meet the needs of the living, since the dead could not use it. Utilitarianism also argued that mourners should return to normal, productive life as soon as possible, without risking the strength needed for their livelihood.

Most surprisingly, Mozi's universal love justified the militia composed of his followers. Mozi held that the small and weak were of equal standing with the large and strong, and that bullying (or invading) of the weak was unjust. He backed his notion of justice with arms, coming to the defense to small states when unjustly attacked by the larger.

Historically, Mo taught after Confucius (who is treated to special excoration in Mo's text) but before Mencius (who in turn attacks Mo). Mo appears to have been well known down to the current time, even if his actual influence on Chinese history was minor. I wonder, though - his drab utilitarian outlook may eventually have been informed Maoist policy.

This is a brief and enjoyable addition to any set of Eastern classics. It's divergence from the main stream of Chinese philospohical history makes it especially interesting, since it provides contrast to the better-known thinkers.

Perhaps Mozi isn't for every reader, but the serious student is sure to enjoy it.

I was lucky enough to hear a reading of this poetry...much modern poetry seems self-congratulatory or designed to make you feel like you are just not as smart as the author. This poetry is the poetry of the everyday...water glasses and home coming...allowing us to recognize that our world is a little more magical then we realized.