douglas graham

An external perspective on Sino-American relations

Revisado: 04-23-21

I didn't enjoy this book because it cut against my biases as an American. That's not why I'm giving it 3 stars though, I enjoy anything that can lead me to question my biases. That is, if they are correct and defensible.

My understanding of the authors intent is that they wish to see peaceful cooperation between the US and China, I would support this. Unfortunately, the author tried to accomplish this by comparing the two nations and in that endeavor his own biases were laid bare. Throughout the book the author uses false equivalency, perhaps unintentionally. I don't fault them for it, it's almost unavoidable when attempting to comparing an ethno-nationalist civilization with a diverse multi-cultural state. Maybe that was the problem from the start.

Despite my criticism and many vocal disputes while listening to this book, I would still recommend it to a western audience. America is not without its flaws and understanding how the rest of the world critiques those flaws is important in understanding our place in the world. This book would be challenging for most Americans but I would encourage them, to take the challenge. It's good to get that outside perspective.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Good thought piece

Revisado: 04-18-21

Very interesting look at the changing landscape of war. This book looks at the new rules of war as shaped by various conflicts around the world and throughout history.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Couldn't put it down.

Revisado: 04-15-21

A comprehensive assessment of our current national defense system with suggestions on how to improve.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Beautiful story.

Revisado: 01-11-21

Loved it. Couldn't put it down. My fiance and I saw ourselves in this book. Can't wait to get back out to the wild.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Great coverage of global events

Revisado: 07-20-20

Admittedly, I didn't learn much from this book. I follow these things closely myself but most people do not and this book summarized them nicely. I would recommend this book to anyone but specially government officials and aspiring government employees as well as the average American.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Passionate but misguided man hates humans

Revisado: 03-15-20

I actually found it fascinating to hear this point of view. I love public lands and to an extent I can agree with him that they should be protected and not infringed on. His perspective of absolutism is where I feel bad for him.
Overall well written and read. He paints these elaborate pictures of his journeys and opinions quite eloquently. You'll leave this book feeling either fired up in one way or another, or like me, left feeling sorry for him.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

History written like a story

Revisado: 10-23-18

Wasn't a fan of the style of writing or the way it was read but it was good overall.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

A thurough look at the history and rise of ISIS

Revisado: 09-09-18

Very good. The names are a little difficult to fallow at first but once you start understanding the networks and actors it comes together. The chapter on the tribes lost me a bit because they introduce some new people but over all it was very informative.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 1 persona