This book, like all in its series, intends to simplify a topic with short remarks (crowded with cartoons) for short attention spans and easy access. For the topic of Cultural Studies, however, it fails to state the obvious - that Cultural Studies (CS) is a political faction. One invented as an ally against the West now that communism failed so miserably.
(1914-1984) Agentinian novelist and short story writer whose works include the novel Hopscotch and the often anthologised short stories Blow-up and End of the Game.
One of the most profound thinkers of modern history, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-78) was a central figure of the European Enlightenment. He was also its most formidable critic, condemning the political, economic, theological, and sexual trappings of civilization along lines that would excite the enthusiasm of romantic individualists and radical revolutionaries alike.
Capitalism deals with the issues that have preoccupied thinkers from Marx and Weber through to Cuddens and Soros. It examines not only issues of great contemporary importance, such as modern globalization and ecological crises, but also looks at examples from the ancient world.
Added by: Kahena | Karma: 11526.37 | Fiction literature | 13 November 2010
2
On the Decay of the Art of Lying
A very short but quite funny examination of the sad state ot that most noble and necessary art: lying. This short essay is in the same vein as Eramus's In Praise of Folly, and just as satisfying. Once again, Mark Twin is the master of essays, this time about lying. It's done in an over the top fashion, making you realize that we're all liars on a daily basis, and we do it reflexively but that it's a dying art. Twain argues that we don't lie for the right reasons, and we need to address that. The essay is a bit short but still poignant even today. Twain's at his best.
