Political science and theory Books

Book SynopsisNow available in three thematic volumes, the second edition of Moral Issues in Global Perspective is a collection of the newest and best articles on current moral issues by moral and political theorists from around the globe. Each volume seeks to challenge the standard approaches to morality and moral issues shaped by Western liberal theory and to extend the inquiry beyond the context of North America. Covering a broad range of issues and arguments, this collection includes critiques of traditional liberal accounts of rights, justice, and moral values, while raising questions about the treatment of disadvantaged groups within and across societies affected by globalization. Providing new perspectives on issues such as war and terrorism, reproduction, euthanasia, censorship, and the environment, each volume of Moral Issues in Global Perspective incorporates work by race, class, feminist, and disability theorists.Human Diversity and Equality, the second of the three volumes, examines issues of equality and difference and the effects, within and across borders, of kinds of discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, disability, class, and sexual orientation. Nine essays are new, four of which were written especially for this volume.Moral Issues in Global Perspective is available in three separate volumes―Moral and Political Theory, Human Diversity and Equality, and Moral Issues.Trade Review“This volume offers an outstanding collection of essays that represent a wide variety of viewpoints on human diversity and equality. Koggel has carefully arranged the text to include perspectives and voices that are often absent from social and political discourse; it questions the traditional Western democratic liberal ideals of privacy and individual liberty rights. The anthology presents alternative conceptions on issues of race, gender, disability, and sexual orientation, and encourages students to think differently about our responsibilities to other cultures. Moral Issues in Global Perspective is a one-of-a-kind anthology.” ― Jennifer Parks, Loyola University“This is an immensely impressive and inspiring project. Each volume of Moral Issues in Global Perspective combines serious attention to moral and political theory with substantive treatment of actual moral issues as they arise in very different human contexts across the planet. No credible moral philosopher can ignore the fact that globalization and multiculturalism make a difference to how moral problems are framed and therefore to how those problems might be addressed. And our students deserve nothing less than to be exposed to the rich diversity of human thinking about how to live. Individually and collectively, these volumes provide essential guides to the latest conversation between theorists and practitioners around the world about a host of questions vital to everyday life and to the very future of ethical humankind.” ― Susan Dwyer, University of Maryland, BaltimoreTable of ContentsPrefaceCHAPTER ONE: THEORIES AND CRITICAL ANALYSIS Human Functioning and Social Justice: In Defense of Aristotelian Essentialism Martha C. Nussbaum Insiders and Outsiders in International Development David A. Crocker Cloning Cultures: The Social Injustices of Sameness Philomena Essed and David Theo Goldberg The New Sovereignty Shelby Steele Social Movements and the Politics of Difference Iris Marion Young Moral Deference Laurence Thomas Study Questions Suggested Readings CHAPTER TWO: RACE AND ETHNICITY Racisms Kwame Anthony Appiah Future Genders? Future Races? Sally Haslanger White Woman Feminist Marilyn Frye Reflections on the Meaning of White Victoria Davion Invisibility is an Unnatural Disaster: Reflections of an Asian American Woman Mitsuye Yamada Study Questions Suggested Readings CHAPTER THREE: GENDER Introduction Beauty is the Beast: Psychological Effects of the Pursuit of the Perfect Female Body Elayne A. Saltzberg and Joan C. Chrisler Justice and the Distribution of Fear Keith Burgess-Jackson Gender Inequality and Cultural Differences Susan Moller Okin Under Western Eyes: Feminist Scholarship and Colonial Discourses Chandra Talpade Mohanty The Good Terrorist: Domesticity and the Political Space for Change Janice Newberry Study Questions Suggested Readings CHAPTER FOUR: SEXUAL ORIENTATION “Is it Wrong to Discriminate on the Basis of Homosexuality?” Jeffrey Jordan Heterosexuality and Feminist Theory Christine Overall Sexuality Injustice Cheshire Calhoun Against Marriage and Motherhood Claudia Card Power and Sexuality in the Middle East Bruce Dunne Study Questions Suggested Readings CHAPTER FIVE: DISABILITY Introduction Disability, Discrimination, and Fairness David Wasserman (In)Equality, (Ab)normality, and the Americans With Disabilities Act Anita Silvers Uniting the Nation? Disability, Stem Cells, and the Australian Media G. Goggin and C. Newell On the Government of Disability Shelley Tremain Study Questions Suggested Readings CHAPTER SIX: POVERTY AND WELFARE Introduction Homelessness and the Issue of Freedom Jeremy Waldron Reforming the Welfare State: The Case for Basic Income Ingrid Robeyns Norway: The Development Ethic of a Donor Country Asuncion Lera St. Clair The Beautiful, Expanding Future of Poverty: Popular Economics as a Psychological Defense Ashis Nandy Equality Analysis: Local and Global Relations of Power Christine M. Koggel Study Questions Suggested Readings Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisThomas Hobbes's Leviathan is the greatest work of political philosophy in English and the first great work of philosophy in English. In addition, it presents the fundamentals of his beliefs about language, epistemology, and an extensive treatment of revealed religion and its relation to politics.Beginning with premises that were sometimes controversial, such as that every human action is caused by the agent's desire for his own good, Hobbes derived shocking conclusions, such as that the civil government enjoys absolute control over its citizens and that the sovereign has the right to determine which religion is to be practiced in a commonwealth. Hobbes's contemporaries recognized the power of the arguments in Leviathan and many of them wrote responses to it. Selections from books by John Bramhall, Robert Filmer, Edward Hyde, George Lawson, William Lucy, Samuel Pufendorf and Thomas Tenison are included in this edition. Leviathan is divided into four parts: In the first part, Of Man, Hobbes presents a view of human beings and of the natural world in general that is materialistic and mechanistic. In the second part, Of Commonwealth, he defends the theory of absolute sovereignty, the view that the government has all the political power and has the right to control any aspect of life. In the third part, Of a Christian Commonwealth, he critiques concepts like revelation, prophets, and miracles in such a way that it becomes doubtful whether they can be rationally justified. In the fourth part, Of the Kingdom of Darkness, he explains various ways in which priestly religion has corrupted religion and transgressed the rights of the sovereign. In this revised edition of Hobbes's classic work, A.P. Martinich improves Hobbes's punctuation for the sake of clarity. He has also added new notes for readers, extensive cross references, and substantial part of Hobbes's reply to Bramhall's The Catching of Leviathan.Trade ReviewInternationally renowned Hobbes scholar A.P. Martinich has produced the definitive version of Leviathan for student use. Handsomely turned out by Broadview Press, this edition features a highly informative introduction, a brief chronology of Hobbes's life, as well as some useful notes on the text itself. Of special value are seven appendices drawn from the writings of contemporary critics of Hobbes's thought, including Filmer, Lawson, Bramhall, Hyde and others. Martinich has made a difficult but essential text as accessible to students as it is likely ever to become." - George Wright, University of Wisconsin"An admirably accessible edition of Hobbes's masterpiece. The work is presented clearly, in its entirety, and with generous excerpts from Hobbes's formidable contemporary critics." - Kinch Hoekstra, Balliol College, Oxford University"This very readable edition of Hobbes's Leviathan is an excellent resource for students of political philosophy and its history. The collection of published responses to Leviathan by some of Hobbes's most prominent contemporaries provides insight into the historical context in which he was writing, and philosophically challenging commentary on this great work of political philosophy." - Thomas Christiano, University of ArizonaTable of Contents Acknowledgements Introduction Thomas Hobbes: A Brief Chronology A Note on the Text Abbreviations Leviathan Appendix A: From Robert Filmer, Observations Concerning the Original of Government, Upon Mr Hobbes’s “Leviathan,” Mr Milton Against Salmasius, H. Grotius “De Jure Belli” (1652) Appendix B: From George Lawson, An Examination of the Political Part of Mr. Hobbs His Leviathan (1657) Appendix C: From John Bramhall, The Catching of Leviathan, or the Great Whale (1658) Appendix D: From William Lucy, Observations, Censures and Confutations of Notorious Errours in Mr. Hobbes His Leviathan (1663) Appendix E: From Thomas Tenison, The Creed of Mr. Hobbes Examined; in a Feigned Conference between Him and a Studentin Divinity (1670) Appendix F: From Samuel Pufendorf, Of the Law of Nature and of Nations, in Eight Books (1672) Appendix G: From Edward Hyde, A Brief View and Survey of the Dangerous and Pernicious Errors to Church and State in Mr Hobbes’s Book Entitled Leviathan (1676) Appendix H: From Thomas Hobbes, An Answer to a Book Published by Dr. Bramhall, late Bishop of Derry; called The Catching of the Leviathan (1682) Select Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisPart One: Historical roots of reinventing government; Reinventing government and its relationship with other management theories; Reinventing government is based on OpenSystems theory; Need for information management; Reinventing government is akin to rediscovery of performance auditing; Effectiveness of reinventing government efforts. Part Two: Books and videos; Book reviews; National level attempts at implementation; State and local level attempts at implementation; Uses in advertising; Recently published materials.

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Book SynopsisAt the turn of the second millennium, Koreans face multiple challenges at home and abroad. South Korea is still in the throes of democratisation and economic reforms, while North Korea faces food shortages and other economic difficulties. The two Koreas need to manage the unification process so as to bring about national harmony and promote economic prosperity. The Korean people need to devise a new security strategy for a unified Korea to ensure its survival and independence in the early 21st century. This collection is divided into three parts, and each addresses an important issue area confronting the Korean people in the 21st century. Part I examines South Korea''s democratisation and economic reforms against the backdrop of the East Asian financial crisis. Part II discusses the problems and prospects for inter-Korean relations and the characteristics of North Korea''s foreign policy behaviour. Part III analyses South Korea''s security relations with the four major powers at the turn of the new millennium. All chapters are written by renowned experts in their fields and offer valuable insights into the dynamics of the two Korean''s domestic politics and foreign policy.

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Book SynopsisSecurity for the Pacific Century - National Strategy in a Multilateral Setting

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Book SynopsisThis book focuses primarily on the vents and consequences that followed the July 1997 collapse of the Thai bhat. The contributions reflect the range in approach and focus of scholarship in the region. In the first section, Gareth Evans presents a detailed overview of the conflicts that the crisis has precipitated in the region, while Bob Catley outlines the post-Cold War strategic arrangements of the region and their implications. Sang-hwa Chung provides an outline of the economic crises experienced by the worst affected countries. Iyanatul Islam discusses the implications of the crisis from US perspectives and Western institutions. In the second section, N. Ganesan, Ikrar Nusa Bhakti, Gerry Groot and Samina Ahmed examine political and strategic dimensions of the crises and the responses to them. In the third section, Stuart Harris, Akiko Fukushima, Felix Patrikeeff and Brahma Chellaney analyse territorial, sovereignty and nuclear issues arising from the crises. In the final section, Graeme Hugo, Lesley Potter and Sri Moertiningsih Adioetomo concentrate on the social, ecological and human aspects of the crises.

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Book SynopsisDevising effective and popular public policy is a daunting task. Often, it requires the balancing of diametrically opposed ideas, finding the right mix of liberal, conservative, and independent ideas to make a solid compromise. Being able to please all sides in an argument constitutes the theory of win-win solutions. This book examines win-win as one of several means of making policy. Tackling such important issues as democracy, poverty, and justice, the book serves as a useful guide to anyone working or interested in the creative field of policy formulation and implementation.

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Book SynopsisPublic policy analysis can be defined as determining which of various alternative public or governmental policies will most achieve a given set of goals in light of the relations between the policies and the goals. The goal of this volume is to define public policy in depth as well as the five key elements of policy evaluation.

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Book SynopsisThis book is designed to introduce readers to a representative range of work which raises what should be regarded as pressing ethical issues in the context of international politics. Although by no means comprehensive in coverage of the possible questions that could be appropriately asked, the chapters convey a sense of how variegated is the field of ethical inquiry in the global realm. Some of the issues are familiar to students of international relations, some of them less so. What they all show, however, is that the academic discipline of international relations has much to learn and benefit from how such problems may be addressed using techniques and approaches that have, until recently, been rather more exclusively restricted to "domestic" -- nation-statist -- political theory. (From the Introduction)

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Book SynopsisIncludes timelines, maps, suggested further readings, and an index.Trade ReviewThis compact narrative history of government institutions and their dialectical relation to society makes a perfect introduction to traditional China for political science, modern history, and comparative politics classes. The thesis, upheld by both specifics in lively prose and thought-provoking cross-period comparisons, is that unity, however valorized, always required hard work: military, political, and cultural creativity amidst ever-changing ethnic, class, and religious formations. Dardess also washes out old libels on non-Han, female, and eunuch power holders simply by recounting the facts. --S. Schneewind, University of California, San DiegoJohn Dardess has provided a concise yet rich description of the evolution of the governing institutions of imperial China through periods of unity and disunity from the late Han (150 CE) to the late Qing (1850) dynasties. His account of change and continuity in governance over a two-thousand-year span of China’s history is an excellent and accessible introduction to a remarkably durable political tradition that resonates even today in the workings of the modern Chinese state and contemporary state-society relations. --William Joseph, Wellesley College

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Book SynopsisIncludes timelines, maps, suggested further readings, and an index.Trade ReviewThis compact narrative history of government institutions and their dialectical relation to society makes a perfect introduction to traditional China for political science, modern history, and comparative politics classes. The thesis, upheld by both specifics in lively prose and thought-provoking cross-period comparisons, is that unity, however valorized, always required hard work: military, political, and cultural creativity amidst ever-changing ethnic, class, and religious formations. Dardess also washes out old libels on non-Han, female, and eunuch power holders simply by recounting the facts. --S. Schneewind, University of California, San DiegoJohn Dardess has provided a concise yet rich description of the evolution of the governing institutions of imperial China through periods of unity and disunity from the late Han (150 CE) to the late Qing (1850) dynasties. His account of change and continuity in governance over a two-thousand-year span of China’s history is an excellent and accessible introduction to a remarkably durable political tradition that resonates even today in the workings of the modern Chinese state and contemporary state-society relations. --William Joseph, Wellesley College

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Book SynopsisAn elegant English version of La Boetie's Discourse on Voluntary Servitude, which is both a key to understanding much of Montaigne and a major piece of early modern political thought. --Timothy Hampton, Professor of French and Comparative Literature, University of California, BerkeleyTrade ReviewAn excellent translation: clear, crisp and accurate. The introduction is also a helpful contextualization of the text, Boétie's relation to Montaigne, and a brief discussion of the history of this important text on non-cooperation in the 20th-Century. I highly recommend it for courses in the history of political theory and of non-cooperation as a means of regime change. --James Tully, Department of Political Science, University of VictoriaA powerful rendition of La Boetie's soldierly prose (as Montaigne would have it). . . . With this unassuming book, the authors have not only offered a solid introduction to Étienne de La Boétie and his legacy, but also passed on to us a living document (Harry Kurz) which may yet find resonance in our own troubled times. --Jeremie Korta, Harvard University, in Sixteenth Century Journal

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Book SynopsisThe only extant treatise on statecraft from classical India, the Arthsastra is an invaluable resource for understanding ancient South Asian political thought; it also provides a comprehensive and unparalleled panoramic view of Indian society during the period between the Maurya (320-185 BCE) and Gupta (320-497 CE) empires.This volume offers modern English translations of key selections, organized thematically, from the Arthasastra. A general Introduction briefly traces the arc of ancient South Asian history, explains the classical Indian tradition of statecraft, and discusses the origins and importance of the Arthasastra. Thorough explanatory essays and notes set each excerpt in its intellectual, political, and cultural contexts.Trade Review"It's of great value to nonspecialists to have this classic work of political theory and political prudence available. This carefully edited and lucidly commented volume will be useful for both research and for courses on the comparative history of politics and civilizations." --Randolph C. Head, University of California, RiversideThe translations are the collaborative product of the two leading authorities today on the Arthasastra. . . . Their work is consistently, meticulously accurate throughout, yet written in the most straightforward and direct manner imaginable. The material prefatory to each translated section is, again, clear and accessible. . . . Complex matters are effectively distilled in plain language, and the key issues brought out. Superb on all counts. I have been awaiting such a volume for a long time. --Timothy Lubin, Washington and Lee UniversityMcClish and Olivelle's general Introduction to the Arthasastra is destined to become a classic in the field of South Asian studies; they have translated the text itself in an accessible style that students and general readers alike will comprehend and enjoy. --James Frey, University of Wisconsin, OshkoshTable of ContentsIntroduction; Authorship & Date: The Cāṇakya Legend, The Composer of the Arthaśāstra: the Historical Kauṭilya, Date & Location of the Arthaśāstra; Historical Context: The Indus Valley Period, The Vedic Period, The Classical Period; Arthaśāstra: Text & Tradition: The Concept of "artha", The Genre of Śāstra, The Tradition of Statecraft, Structure & Style of the Text; The World of the Arthaśāstra: Kingship & Royal Authority, Ruling a Kingdom, The King's Administration, The Layout of the Kingdom, Society, Religion & Ethics, Conquest & Success. The Arthaśāstra -- How to be Good King; The Kingdom; Central Administration; The Judiciary; Internal Security & Suppression of Criminal Activities; Foreign Affairs; War; Index of Passages.

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Book SynopsisInspired by the Enlightenment readings of Hebrew biblical texts generated in the seventeenth through the nineteenth centuries, Mira Morgenstern's Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible goes beyond the pioneering interpretations of various biblical texts penned by such noted Bible students as Spinoza, Rousseau, and Angelina Grimké to present an introduction to the Hebrew Bible as a whole from the perspective of a modern-day political theorist. In doing so, it offers a brilliant thematic guide to the Hebrew Bible's most politically salient passages, complete with text and commentary. Morgenstern's account of the significance of these ancient yet strangely modern texts will fascinate students of both ancient and modern political theory—as well as all readers of the Hebrew Bible itself.Trade Review"The fields of Jewish political thought and political readings of the Hebrew Bible are newly emergent and rapidly growing, but prior to Mira Morgenstern's Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible, there has been no comprehensive scholarship that pulled everything together in a coherent way and served as a stimulus to new research—let alone to teaching. Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible achieves both aims and displays the same care, intelligence, and originality that characterize the author’s earlier scholarship. Morgenstern's selection of biblical passages is judicious, and her extensive Introduction and commentaries comprise a learned treatise that rivals any existing interpretation of the political meanings of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. The pedagogical and scholarly quality of Morgenstern’s volume is suggestive of The Jewish Study Bible (Second Edition, Oxford University Press, 2014), the standard reference work in the field and one that, like her own volume, is anything but a 'textbook.' Morgenstern’s biblical readings are a marvelous blend of literary and social-political analyses that are powerful and persuasive and yet subtle without being dogmatic, leaving open, and indeed encouraging, rival interpretations. To step into the figurative minefield of biblical interpretation and to retain the 'neutrality' that is central to all academic endeavors is no mean accomplishment, and with this new work, Morgenstern will cement her much-deserved place in biblical scholarship. A superb work in every respect." —Gordon Schochet, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Founding Executive Editor of Hebraic Political Studies"An exceptionally fine contribution to Jewish political theory. . . . Morgenstern presents here an approach to the Hebrew Bible in what many would consider a nuanced manner, taking the entire tract as a complete narrative and recognizing that its composition emerged over some period of time, but simultaneously recognizing in it a particular set of values. Following an extensive and comprehensive introductory essay . . . are chapters by topic covering politics: cities as the locus of power; covenants as contractual arrangements between God and the people; treaties as a means of creating relationships with the Israelites’ neighbors; foreign affairs; leadership; monarchy. Political values are covered by a discussion of justice, violence, and civil war. Human rights, a theme that has come to prominence in contemporary times, finds coverage in the Hebrew Bible with Morgenstern looking at women, social order, and secularization in an otherwise religious text. There are some outlying themes that are interesting in terms of psychology, such as dreams and the creation of an Israelite national identification. Each topic selected is given with a particular context, then, most importantly, supplemented by a related passage from various components of the Hebrew Bible. While Jewish political theory is a relatively new subject of academic study, Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible ought to serve as a mainstay text for interested students." —Sanford R. Silverburg, Catawba College, in AJL Reviews"Mira Morgenstern has provided university and seminary teachers with a tool to engage their students in a rational, informed discussion of the Bible on both political theory and practical politics. She offers her readers an extensive anthology of texts from the Hebrew Bible with short introductions to elucidate 'the contributions to political theory represented in its texts.' A comprehensive fifty-one-page introduction precedes the anthology of biblical texts. "Morgenstern recognizes that neither ‘political' nor ‘theory' is a biblical term. Still, biblical texts deal with human behavior in an ordered society and speak of institutionalized political practices and promote a view of human beings and their society that assumes their transcendent value. What this anthology does is present specific texts in which ancient Israel’s political theory is implicit. "An excellent resource for students of political science who wish to explore the influence of the Bible on contemporary political theory by reading actual biblical texts rather than depending solely on secondary sources. It could also serve as collateral reading in courses that introduce students to the Hebrew Bible, since it illustrates how the biblical tradition can be appropriated in reflecting on contemporary political issues." —Leslie J. Hoppe, OFM, Catholic Theological Union, in the Review of Biblical Literature"A fantastic resource for students of both the Bible and political thought, readers stand to gain much from Morgenstern's collection of sources. Her questions probe timeless themes. (See, for example, her raising the question, in the context of Cain founding the first city, whether the Hebrew Bible 'invite[s] the reader to consider whether the (moral) essence of a development is determined by its roots or by its consequences.') Even her passing comments are profound. (She notes that contrary to the Greeks, the Israelite mentality does not celebrate the practice of warfare.) Her volume will serve as an educational, political, and spiritual source of meaning for as long as the biblical texts continue to be mined by those seeking a deeper understanding of the human political condition." —Rabbi Dr. Stu Halpern, Yeshiva University

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Book SynopsisInspired by the Enlightenment readings of Hebrew biblical texts generated in the seventeenth through the nineteenth centuries, Mira Morgenstern's Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible goes beyond the pioneering interpretations of various biblical texts penned by such noted Bible students as Spinoza, Rousseau, and Angelina Grimké to present an introduction to the Hebrew Bible as a whole from the perspective of a modern-day political theorist. In doing so, it offers a brilliant thematic guide to the Hebrew Bible's most politically salient passages, complete with text and commentary. Morgenstern's account of the significance of these ancient yet strangely modern texts will fascinate students of both ancient and modern political theory—as well as all readers of the Hebrew Bible itself.Trade Review"The fields of Jewish political thought and political readings of the Hebrew Bible are newly emergent and rapidly growing, but prior to Mira Morgenstern's Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible, there has been no comprehensive scholarship that pulled everything together in a coherent way and served as a stimulus to new research—let alone to teaching. Reframing Politics in the Hebrew Bible achieves both aims and displays the same care, intelligence, and originality that characterize the author’s earlier scholarship. Morgenstern's selection of biblical passages is judicious, and her extensive Introduction and commentaries comprise a learned treatise that rivals any existing interpretation of the political meanings of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. The pedagogical and scholarly quality of Morgenstern’s volume is suggestive of The Jewish Study Bible (Second Edition, Oxford University Press, 2014), the standard reference work in the field and one that, like her own volume, is anything but a 'textbook.' Morgenstern’s biblical readings are a marvelous blend of literary and social-political analyses that are powerful and persuasive and yet subtle without being dogmatic, leaving open, and indeed encouraging, rival interpretations. To step into the figurative minefield of biblical interpretation and to retain the 'neutrality' that is central to all academic endeavors is no mean accomplishment, and with this new work, Morgenstern will cement her much-deserved place in biblical scholarship. A superb work in every respect." —Gordon Schochet, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Founding Executive Editor of Hebraic Political Studies

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Book SynopsisThe Consumer Financial Protection Bureau helps consumer finance markets work by making rules more effective, by consistently and fairly enforcing those rules, and by empowering consumers to take more control over their economic lives. The Office of Financial Empowerment, part of the Consumer Education and Engagement division of the Bureau, focuses on low-income and economically vulnerable consumers. This book discusses the empowering low income and economically vulnerable consumers, and provides a statement from a hearing on financial literacy.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the national security and preparedness issues, developments and analyses facing the U.S. today. Topics discussed include a unified national security budget; U.S.-EU cooperation against terrorism; immediate opportunities for strengthening the nation''s cybersecurity; electronic grid vulnerability; and the security clearance process.

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Book SynopsisA congressional or federal charter is a federal statute that establishes a corporation. Congress has issued charters since 1791, although the chartering by Congress of organisations with a patriotic, charitable, historical, or educational purpose is essentially a 20th century practice. Congress has used charters to create a variety of corporate entities, such as banks, government-sponsored enterprises, commercial corporations, venture capital funds, and quasi governmental entities. Congressionally chartered corporations have raised diverse issues for Congress. This book provides an overview on Congressional and federal charters; Congressionally chartered non-profit organisations; federal government corporations; hybrid organisations with both government and private sector legal characteristics; and key principles for leveraging non-federal resources in Congressionally chartered organisations.

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Book SynopsisThe spread of the scientific capabilities to produce effective biological weapons has contributed to concerns about the threat posed to the warfighter from biological attacks. This book describes the Department of Defense''s (DOD) funding of medical countermeasures against biological threat agents from fiscal years 2001 through 2013; evaluates DOD''s progress in researching, developing, and making available medical countermeasures against biological threat agents, including DOD''s prioritisation process; describes DOD''s internal co-ordination to allocate resources to medical countermeasures against biological threat agents; and evaluates DOD''s co-ordination with HHS and DHS to research and develop medical countermeasures against biological threat agents.

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Book SynopsisThis book is a comprehensive overview of oversight conducted over the past decade to measure how well DHS is achieving its mission, operating its programs, spending taxpayer funds, complying with the law, and respecting the boundaries established to limit the federal government and protect the rights of law abiding U.S. citizens. This book describes and analyzes the discretionary appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for fiscal year 2015 (FY2015). It compares the President''s request for FY2015 funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the enacted FY2014 appropriations for DHS, and the House-reported homeland security appropriations legislation for FY2015. The book tracks legislative action and congressional issues related to DHS appropriations with particular attention paid to discretionary funding amounts.

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Book SynopsisWorld events since late 2013 have led some observers to conclude that the international security environment is undergoing a shift from the familiar post-Cold War era of the last 20-25 years, also sometimes known as the unipolar moment (with the United States as the unipolar power), to a new and different strategic situation that features, among other things, renewed great power competition and challenges to elements of the U.S.- led international order that has operated since World War II. A shift in the international security environment could have significant implications for U.S. defense plans and programs. This book discusses potential implications for defence and issues for Congress that arise with a shift in the international security environment. It also examines outcomes and key challenges of NATO''s Wales Summit; priorities for 21st century defence; and discusses the 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review and defense strategy.

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Book SynopsisNational security has become a major concern with the rise of terrorist groups and technological advances. Surveillance systems are crucial in maintaining security. This book discusses different types and forms of cybercrimes; security in medical institutions; real-time surveillance; biofocal panoramic lenses; the Gaussian mixture model; hybrid warms and defence synergetics; and a futuristic perspective in global health diplomacy.

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Book SynopsisWith enactment of the FY2014 Consolidated Appropriations Act on January 1, 2014, Congress has approved appropriations for the past 13 years of war that total $1.6 trillion for military operations, base support, weapons maintenance, training of Afghan and Iraq security forces, reconstruction, foreign aid, embassy costs, and veterans health care for the war operations initiated since the 9/11 attacks. This book discusses the cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and other global war of terror operations since 9/11 in detail, and provides information on the FY2015 funding to counter Ebola and the Islamic State (IS).

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Book SynopsisThe Islamic State organisation is the successor to Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI). Countering the financial resources of the Islamic State, which has seized significant territory in Iraq and Syria and threatened to conduct attacks against the United States and its citizens, has become a significant national security priority for policymakers, including Members of Congress. By undermining the financial strength of the group, also known as ISIL or ISIS, policymakers seek to reduce its capability to conduct terrorist attacks, as well as to ultimately "degrade and ultimately destroy" the group. This book includes a comprehensive look at how the group generates revenue.

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Book SynopsisIn 2014, the armed offensive of the Islamic State (IS, also known as ISIL, ISIS, or Daesh) in northern and western Iraq and northeastern Syria raised significant concerns for the United States. After first ordering multiple deployments of U.S. troops to Iraq to provide security to diplomatic personnel and facilities, advise Iraqi security forces, and conduct intelligence gathering and reconnaissance, President Obama began ordering U.S. military airstrikes on IS forces in Iraq in August 2014. Later in September, after laying out plans for expanded use of military force against the Islamic State in a televised speech to the American people, the President ordered U.S. military airstrikes in Syria against both IS forces and forces of the "Khorasan Group," identified by the President as part of Al Qaeda. The intensified U.S. military engagement has raised numerous questions in Congress and beyond about the President''s authority to use military force against the Islamic State. This book discusses the issues and current proposals for the use of military force against the Islamic State.

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Book SynopsisEnacted on 1 August 2011, the Budget Control Act (BCA) as amended sets limits on defense spending between FY2012 and FY2021 that are playing a significant role in the debate about the appropriate level of defense spending. Each year, if Congress enacts a spending level that exceeds BCA caps for the defense base budget, the President is required to sequester or levy across-the-board cuts to each type of defense spending to meet the BCA caps. These spending levels are sometimes referred to as revised or "sequester" caps. War-designated funding (for "Overseas Contingency Operations") is not subject to BCA caps. To help frame the choices about how to respond to the BCA revised or "sequester" caps on defense spending, this book explains congressional adjustments of the caps and Administration reactions; describes the Administration''s position and DOD concerns; analyzes defense spending levels in the FY2016 annual budget resolution; places BCA caps in historical perspective; outlines different types of savings that could help comply with the caps; analyses DOD''s current plan for compliance, and describes budget uncertainties faced by DOD in responding to spending limits.

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Book SynopsisThis work, Radical Islam and Civil Conflict in Africa, is written by a two-time Fulbright-Hays Fellow who currently serves as course director of global and world history courses within the University of Maryland University College system. The author, Norman C. Rothman, Ph.D., has written numerous published works related to Islam. This work serves to highlight recent and continuous struggles between Islamic militant forces and civil societies in North Africa, West Africa, and East Africa. The countries that will represent these regions are Libya, Nigeria, and Somalia. These countries are currently witnessing conflicts with no end in sight. The book examines the roots of these conflicts and analyses the reasons for their continuance. It goes on to assess possible outcomes for these internecine struggles, which appear to have become endemic to these countries. This work also delves into the causes of the growth of radical movements and provides insight as to why they have attracted and continue to attract support. It concludes with recommendations for resolving these conflicts, which at present appear to be permanent and intractable. The book is directed to those who have both a general and specific interest in comparative religion, recent history, international relations, Africa, and Islam.

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Book SynopsisThe Department of Homeland Security''s (DHS) Federal Protective Service (FPS) and the Department of Justice''s (DOJ) United States Marshals Service (USMS) experience a range of challenges in their efforts to provide effective security screening. FPS and USMS conduct building security screening at thousands of GSA buildings across the country. This book examines the challenges federal entities face in their efforts to prevent prohibited items and individuals who may pose a security threat from entering GSA buildings; and actions federal entities have taken to assess the effectiveness of their screening efforts, and the results of those actions. Furthermore, the book examines the extent to which DHS and other stakeholders are prepared to address cyber risk to building and access control systems in federal facilities.

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Book SynopsisThe Defense Production Act (DPA) of 1950, as amended, confers upon the President a broad set of authorities to influence domestic industry in the interest of national defense. The authorities can be used across the federal government to shape the domestic industrial base so that, when called upon, it is capable of providing essential materials and goods needed for the national defense. Congress has expanded the term national defense, as defined in the DPA, so that it now includes activities related to homeland security and domestic emergency management. The scope of DPA authorities extends beyond shaping U.S. military preparedness and capabilities, as the authorities may also be used to enhance and support domestic preparedness, response, and recovery from natural hazards, terrorist attacks, and other national emergencies. This book examines some of the extensive history of the DPA, focusing primarily on its creation and most recent legislative reauthorisation. This book also discusses the foremost active authorities of the DPA; explains how those authorities may have changed as a result of the most recent reauthorisation of the law; identifies relevant delegations of the President''s DPA authorities made in Executive Order; provides a brief overview of issues Congress may wish to consider in its oversight of executive branch use of DPA authorities, as well as the implementation of changes made in the most recent reauthorisation; and discusses congressional considerations for expanding, restricting, or otherwise modifying the authorities provided by the DPA through new legislation.

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Book SynopsisSince 2010, the United States has suffered grave damage to national security and an increased risk to the lives of U.S. personnel due to unauthorised disclosures of classified information by individuals with authorised access to defense information systems. Congress and the President have issued requirements for structural reforms and a new program to address insider threats. A 2014 House Committee on Armed Services report included a provision that the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) assess The Department of Defense''s (DOD) efforts to protect its information and systems. This book evaluates the extent to which DOD has implemented an insider-threat program that incorporates minimum standards and key elements; DOD and others have assessed DOD''s insider-threat program; and DOD has identified any technical and policy changes needed to protect against future insider threats. Furthermore, the book evaluates the extent to which DOD has reflected insider threat considerations in its force protection policies and other guidance; shared actions that U.S. installations have taken to protect against insider threats; and implemented recommendations from the official reviews of the 2009 Fort Hood and 2013 Washington Navy Yard shootings.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the national security and preparedness issues, developments and analyses facing the U.S. today. Topics discussed include President Barack Obama''s national security strategy; national security implications of climate-related risks and a changing climate; the department of defense strategy for countering weapons of mass destruction; orbital debris mitigation and removal; maritime critical infrastructure protection; and the Project BioShield Act.

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Book SynopsisThe potential harm to public health and the environment from a large release of hazardous chemicals has long concerned congressional policymakers. Since 2006, Congress has authorised the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to regulate chemical facilities for security purposes. To this end, the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) regulates security at high-risk facilities possessing more than certain amounts of one or more chemicals of interest. Facilities possessing more than the specified amount must register with DHS through this program and perform security-related activities. This book provides information regarding the pace of DHS CFATS implementation and attempts to identify potential sources of challenges for DHS. Moreover, this book addresses the extent to which DHS has categorised facilities as subject to the CFATS regulation, and approved site security plans and conducted compliance inspections.

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Book SynopsisContinuity of operations at Department of Defense (DOD) installations is vital to supporting the department''s missions, and the disruption of utility services -- such as electricity and potable water, among others -- can threaten this support. DOD installations have experienced utility disruptions resulting in operational and fiscal impacts due to hazards such as mechanical failure and extreme weather. Threats, such as cyberattacks, also have the potential to cause disruptions. This book addresses whether threats and hazards have caused utility disruptions on DOD installations and, if so, what impacts they have had; the extent to which DOD''s collection and reporting on utility disruptions is comprehensive and accurate; and the extent to which DOD has taken actions and developed and implemented guidance to mitigate risks to operations at its installations in the event of utility disruption. Moreover, DOD relies overwhelmingly on commercial electrical power grids for secure, uninterrupted electrical power supplies to support its critical assets. This book also examines the extent to which DOD''s most critical assets are vulnerable to disruptions in electrical power supplies and the extent to which DOD -- both within and outside of the Defense Critical Infrastructure Program -- has attempted to assure the availability of electrical power supplies to its most critical assets.

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Book SynopsisIn 2001, in the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, "homeland security" went from being a concept discussed among a relatively small cadre of policymakers and strategic thinkers to a broadly discussed issue in Congress. Debates over how to implement coordinated homeland security policy led to the passage of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Evolution of America''s response to terrorist threats has continued under the leadership of different Administrations, Congresses, and in a shifting environment of public opinion. This book outlines an array of homeland security issues that may come before the 114th Congress. It provides a brief discussion of the definitions of homeland security, the homeland security budget, and the role of homeland security actors in the intelligence community; discusses the FY2016 appropriations for the DHS and provides an overview of the Administration''s FY2016 request; and discusses appropriations for the components of DHS included in the second title of the homeland security appropriations bill.

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Book SynopsisPersistent weaknesses at 24 federal agencies illustrate the challenges they face in effectively applying information security policies and practices. Most agencies continue to have weaknesses in (1) limiting, preventing, and detecting inappropriate access to computer resources; (2) managing the configuration of software and hardware; (3) segregating duties to ensure that a single individual does not have control over all key aspects of a computer-related operation; (4) planning for continuity of operations in the event of a disaster or disruption; and (5) implementing agency-wide security management programs that are critical to identifying control deficiencies, resolving problems, and managing risks on an ongoing basis. These deficiencies place critical information and information systems used to support the operations, assets, and personnel of federal agencies at risk, and can impair agencies'' efforts to fully implement effective information security programs. This book provides an analysis on the adequacy and effectiveness of agencies'' information security policies and practices; and agencies'' implementation of the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 (FISMA) requirements.

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Book SynopsisThe Congressional Research Service (CRS) developed the Congressional Oversight Manual over 30 years ago, following a three-day December 1978 Workshop on Congressional Oversight and Investigations. The workshop was organized by a group of House and Senate committee aides from both parties and CRS at the request of the bipartisan House leadership. The Manual was produced by CRS with the assistance of a number of House committee staffers. In subsequent years, CRS has sponsored and conducted various oversight seminars for House and Senate staff and updated the Manual as circumstances warranted. The Congressional Review Act (CRA) is an oversight tool that Congress may use to overturn a rule issued by a federal agency. The CRA was included as part of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA), which was signed into law on March 29, 1996. The CRA requires agencies to report on their rulemaking activities to Congress and provides Congress with a special set of procedures under which to consider legislation to overturn those rules. This book discusses both the Congressional Oversight Manual and the Congressional Review Act in detail.

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Book SynopsisThis book deals with the 70-year-old peaceful struggle for autonomy/independence of the Tibetan Buddhist living in the ''Roof of the World'', Tibet. In 1950, Tibet, an erstwhile independent entity intermittently under the suzerainty of China, was coercively annexed by the People''s Republic of China (PRC). It is located in the Himalayan region bordering India and the PRC, the two major players in Asia. The book describes the contemporary history of Tibet and analyses the implications of autonomy especially in the context of geostrategic significance of Tibet to India and China. The response of the PRC and India towards Tibetan autonomy is very important to understand the undercurrents of international relations in the Himalayas. Concomitantly in the 21st century the international response is also significant in helping the move towards autonomy to erstwhile groups of people that have a common cultural identity. The relative significance of the right of a modern state to territorial integrity and people''s right of self-determination are discussed in detail. Though people''s right to self-determination has been an internationally recognised principle, its implementation depends on the persistence of the struggle for autonomy/independence, the means adopted, and the international response toward it. The interplay of international politics with national interests of major players in the era of globalisation is also dealt with. Thus, in the era of human security and human rights, the Tibetan quest for autonomy has solicited great significance.

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Book SynopsisThis book describes the work to be done in building an automated pandemic prevention and response capability for the US with international extensions and extendibility using artificial intelligence. The complexity of operational decisions, information sharing, situational awareness, and planned/ongoing actions by thousands of actors in pandemic prevention, preparedness and response is far too great for anyone to manage effectively. The deaths and economic devastation caused by COVID-19 yet again proved this fact, much like all other major disasters we have endured. There are too many organisations, too many differing plans and agendas, too many different people of varying experience in positions of responsibility, and too much information as well as critical need for optimal decisions and actions, to avoid calamity during the inevitable next pandemic. We need automated planning, information vetting/sharing and rapid action to optimize prevention and, if not prevented, response to minimize spread. Volume I laid out the case for a better approach than exists in the U.S. today, and our nation's military -- touted as the best in the world -- employs methodologies with precision and fidelity that optimise rapid decision making for human-sized enemies. It turns out these same methodologies and associated technologies work just as well with our microscopic enemies, like COVID-19. This book provides an overview of how it should be developed, implemented and evolved nationwide before the next pandemic. Seems like we finally should get our "act" together, otherwise the toll for passage of the next virus could be far higher as we remain unprepared. It will be hard and extensive work, which some have referenced the "Manhattan Project" or the Apollo Program, but the COVID-19 death count mandates we apply our best effort to prevent another pandemic disaster. We are better equipped now than ever to do so.Table of ContentsDedication; Foreword; Prologue; Introduction; COVID-19 and Other Disasters: Applying the Lessons Learned; Organizational Enterprise Synthesis of Effective Pandemic Collaboration; Pandemic Response Collaboration Planning; The AI Plan-ning Engine; The SHOULD-BE Implementation Plan; Epilogue; Acknowledgments; Biographies; Epigraph.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the threat of domestic terrorism in the wake of the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. It discusses whether or not participants and their actions may be categorised as domestic terrorists and domestic terrorism, respectively, and issues around designating domestic fringe groups, such as the Boogaloo Bois and Proud Boys who were allegedly involved in the attack, as terrorist organisations.

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Book SynopsisWith a foreword by Isabel Hardman HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED...how people feel about sleeping with the political enemy? ...whether gambling markets are best at predicting political outcomes? ...who Santa Claus would vote for? Then look no further. More Sex, Lies and the Ballot Box brings us another collection of concise chapters penned by leading political experts and delving into the fascinating field of electoral politics. Following on from the success of its bestselling predecessor, this illuminating book shines a light on how we vote in Britain and around the world. You'll learn about the shifting landscape of party politics and the perceptions and misconceptions that shape our opinions of our politicians and of each other. You'll learn about the factors informing voter habits - from class, race and gender to the internet and the weather. You'll also learn which political party has the most sexually satisfied supporters. Forget mind-numbing numbers and difficult demographics. This sharp and frequently hilarious volume is fizzing with accessible facts and figures that are more than just conversation starters - they're unexpected insights into the human condition.Trade Review"Shrewd, witty, bravura de-bunking. The essential accessory for every political anorak. Each chapter is a cruel and forensic expose of the ill-informed cliches of political reporting. This book must be banned. The country's top political academics do their party pieces: bite-sized brilliant distillations of learning, like conjurers' table magic." - Gary Gibbon, Political Editor, Channel 4 News; "It's like Sgt Pepper but for political geeks." - Stephen Bush, New Statesman Special Correspondent; "A refreshingly accessible book of nuanced, witty insights that will be a welcome salve for those grappling with the current state of British politics." - LSE Review of Books

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Book SynopsisBy any measure, the story of the Scottish National Party is an extraordinary one.Forced to endure decades of electoral irrelevance since its creation in the 1930s, during which it often found itself grappling with internal debate on strategy, and rebellion from within its own ranks, the SNP virtually swept the board in the 2015 general election, winning all but three of Scotland's fifty-nine seats in Westminster. What's more, under the current leadership of Nicola Sturgeon, the SNP has never been a more important force in the landscape of British politics.The leaders who have stood at its helm during this tumultuous eighty-year history - from Sir Alexander MacEwen to Nicola Sturgeon and Alex Salmond - have steered the SNP vessel with varying degrees of success, but there is no doubt that all have contributed to the shape, purpose and ultimate goal of the party of government we see today.The latest addition to the acclaimed British Political Leaders series, Scottish National Party Leaders examines each of these senior figures for the first time, and is essential reading for anyone curious about how this former fringe party evolved into a political phenomenon, changing not only the face of Scottish politics, but British politics as well.Trade Review"A powerful, persuasive and long overdue account of the personalities who have shaped and sustained modern Scottish nationalism since its foundations a century ago." - Ian Jack, writer and journalist; "This book provides a fascinating backdrop to the interesting political times Scotland now faces and the characters that lived the dream that has never died." - Kenny MacAskill, former SNP minister and former MSP; "A fascinating journey through eighty years of Scottish political history, full of insights and lessons for us all. Scholarly and thorough, but also creditably human." - John Harris, The Guardian; "Each of the men and women who guided the SNP, as diverse in temperament as the talents of the authors who bring them to life in this remarkable book, made decisions which still mark the party. Their life sketches, and those of a score of others, make this book an absorbing argument for how human agency, with spoonfuls of sheer luck, can construct political triumph." - Neal Ascherson, author of Stone Voices: The Search for Scotland

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