Customer Reviews:
received an old edition - very disappointed.......2007-05-21
I'm very disappointed with my order with Amazon. Two co-workers and I all ordered from Amazon and we all got different editions of this textbook; none of them being the most recent. I am going to send mine back.
Full of information but dense.......2007-05-09
I received this book in the high hopes of having everything explained to me in clear English. For the most part, my expectations were met. The downside is that the reading is quite dense in most parts. In addition, being a Tax Professional, I found a few, minor errors in the Tax Planning section. Otherwise, the book has been a tremendous help in my studies to become a CFP(R).
CFP Course 1.......2007-03-24
Good book to form the foundation for the CFP training and exam. It's too expensive, however. My guess is that it is priced assuming most students get reimbursed by their employers. For those of us who have to pay for the book out of our own pockets, it is too expensive.
Typical Textbook.......2007-02-21
textbook was purchased new. It is a large softcover which I am not sure will hold up for the length of my studies and I have found that much of the tax information is of course out of date and there are a couple of references that are incorrect. Time for a reprint.
Pretty good.......2006-07-25
A lot of good info. Fills in the gaps in my knowledge of investing, finance, banking, estate planning, retirement options, etc. There are quite a few typos, however, and a lot of awkward sentence structure. Strange because it's nothing that MS Word wouldn't catch. It needs a pro writer re-write.
Amazon.com
He's written shamelessly for more than a decade and a half about his passion for 12- and 15-year-olds. He's described his dalliances with loves named Heather and Peat and some three dozen named Glen. His name is Michael Jackson. Relax. We're talking here about the Britain-based, award-winning drinks and spirits writer and author of, among other classic reference works, Michael Jackson's Beer Companion.
In Michael Jackson's Complete Guide to Single Malt Scotch, devotees of the dram can peruse the latest revised edition of the 1989 work. In 336 pages brimming with maps, photos, and informed overview of factors such as geography and flavor components--even proximity to the sea--Jackson sketches the evolution of Scotch whisky, from the prebottling days, when shopkeepers like Johnnie Walker and the Chivas Brothers would create their own blends for sale, to the late-1960s and 1970s' surge of individual distilleries marketing their own bottlings. Lamentably labeling the former as a time when "orchestrations drowned out the soloists," Jackson provides some sweet sheet music of his own: 294 pages are devoted to an A-to-Z review (including full-color labels and tasting notes) of more than 800 singles from "every Scottish malt distillery that has ever witnessed its product in a bottle." It's the perfect book to take to your local liquor store next time you're trying to navigate the high shelf of Scotland's highlands, lowlands, and islands. You may laugh at Jackson's description of Auchentoshan Select's "oily" nose with "hints of citrus zest" or Aberlour 10-year-old's "mint-toffee" bouquet. But you'll be laughing out of the other side of your haggis when you actually smell them. All the notes are well researched and designed to appeal to Cardhu-carrying connoisseurs, as well as those who'd just like to know more about Bowmore. In his introduction, the author describes a whisky's finish as "a crescendo, followed by a series of echoes. When I leave the bottle, I like to be whistling the tune." Scotch drinkers will find plenty to wet that whistle in Michael Jackson's Complete Guide to Single Malt Scotch. --Tony Mason
Book Description
Michael Jackson is renowned for his pithy wisdom and a remarkable ability to evoke aromas and flavors. This fully revised and expanded edition of MICHAEL JACKSON'S COMPLETE GUIDE TO SINGLE MALT SCOTCH is the definitive guide to single malt whisky and its producers worldwide. The completely new introduction incorporates Jackson's most recent research on the origins and evolution of the water of life, the nature of aromas and flavors, and regional differences. The book's core is the comprehensive A-to-Z of single malts, arranged by distillery. Each entry offers a new introduction and key information, and features Jackson's evocative, highly regarded tasting notes and ratings. This edition features a refreshed design, specially commissioned photographs of distilleries, and more than 1,000 tasting notes.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent for reviews and consistency, with some reservations.......2007-05-06
Michael Jackson's "Complete Guide To Single Malt Scotch" is an encyclopedic collection of scotch knowledge and reviews of the most common offerings from every one of the nearly hundred malt distilleries in Scotland.
The book starts off by offering a concise education about the origins of scotch, interpretation of scotch labels, flavors, regional variations and factors that influence the taste of scotch all distilled down to less than eighty pages with numerous color pictures.
After you read the first section you will have a some idea about the decisions that affect the taste of your scotch, for example you might be able to tell whether the dram in your glass was matured in bourbon cask or a sherry cask and make some educated guesses about the shape of the copper stills that the scotch was distilled in.
However the first section was just the warm up. The real meat of the book is the second section which is an exhaustive listing of the most common offerings from every one of Scotland's roughly hundred or so malt distilleries with reviews written in Michael Jackson's signature concise style and a ranking on a 100 point scale. If you're like me you'll find yourself reading the first section and then coming back to both sections periodically for quick reference on a particular distillery or region. The second section is more of a reference and not meant to be read linearly.
And now I come to what makes this book unique. Michael Jackson is almost pathologically consistent in his review ratings, more so than the other popular whisky reviewers e.g. Paul Pacult. Taste is highly personal and subjective so it is unlikely you will agree with any one reviewer's ratings 100% of the times however Michael Jackson is very consistent about the factors that he rates well. I found that he especially appreciates robust full bodied whiskies with complex taste with no big surprises i.e. the nose should be a fairly good indicator of what the whisky will deliver in the mouth. Predictability is a fine quality in a reviewer.
So while you may not always agree with him, reading his reviews and the ratings gives you a fairly good idea of what to expect from the whisky. This is what makes Michael Jackson such a great author. That and the encyclopedic listing of reviews makes this book a must buy for a scotch enthusiast like me.
Cons? Just a few. Like other Amazon reviewers have noted, he devotes an excessive amount of print to rare and expensive offerings that the average scotch drinker will never come across in his lifetime. Also his reviews are too concise. I would recommend getting this book for its unique merits but also looking into the writings of other scotch reviewers like F Paul Pacult, Jim Murray and Dave Broom who have a more engaging and conversational style of writing, and will help round out your scotch education.
Can't go wrong with this book!.......2007-04-02
I bought this a few years ago coinciding with my introduction to whiskey (Balvenie Double Wood purchased at the Duty Free @ Gatwick). It was because of this book that I visited Scotland to delve into the mystery of Scotch Whiskey. I went to Glenfiddich, McCallum, and Abelour solely on Michael Jacksons' recommendations. I don't have the greatest pallet in the world but Jackson has been dead on for even a novice such as myself. I would have never picked up a Highland Park, Ardbeg, or Craigenmore if had not been for him.
Great book!
Wonderful Reference.......2007-02-22
This was a gift for my husband and he has enjoyed the reviews immensely. He feels they are right on target and most informative.
Complete Guide to Single Malt Scotch.......2007-01-15
Excellent, comprehensive reference for anyone who enjoys single malt scotch whiskey.
Great to Pair with a bottle of scotch.......2007-01-10
The book is easy to read and was a great pairing idea with a bottle of scotch for a lucky recipient
Customer Reviews:
Outstanding Resource.......2007-07-16
I would imagine that most visitors to the Galapaos are not naturalists. For those without a strong background in natural sciences, I would highly recommend this book. The book is easy and fun to read, detailed without being tedious. The photos are amazing and the author's passion for the islands is evident. If you only have time to read one book, this is one I would advise a Galapagos visitor to read in advance of their trip.
A wonderful introduction to the life of this fantastic place.......2006-04-29
My wife and I bought Jackson's book in preparation for a trip to the Galapagos. The book served us well; when we arrived at the islands we felt that we were almost on a first-name basis with all the fantastic creatures and plants that make the Galapagos such a fascinating place. The book is considerably more than just a field guide; it includes information on the islands' history, their environmental and ecological setting, and the conservation efforts being made to preserve this truly unique place. And, as the title indicates, the book provides a lot of natural history, not just a brief summary of bare facts about each animal or plant. Not only is it a fine guide, it is a most enjoyable read.
The Guide's bible on the Galapagos.......2004-08-11
Every naturalist guide in the Galapagos has this book. They also sell this book at the Charles Darwin Center in Santa Cruz, and it is a must read. It explains how the islands came about and what makes them so unique. I highly recommend this book!
The one book needed when travelling to the galapagos.......2000-08-15
I just recently returned from the Galapagos Islands, and the book that guided me throughout my journey was this book by M.H. Jackson. Very easy to find the animal you are looking, and also helps to discover more creatures to look for. Helped explain things further from what the guides had said. Also helped me in answering many people's questions about different creatures. A Great book! A must for all travelers to the galapagos in search of unique wildlife.
Undoubtedly the best overview of "Darwin's Islands"........1998-05-21
I am a biologist that has been working in the Galapagos as a Naturalist leading tours there for the last 6 years. Michael Jackson's book is the "Bible" for the beginning naturalist and certainly more than adequate for the casual "ecotourist". Jackson covers all major aspects of the history, geology, ecology, and biology of the islands. In the "biology" section, he gives a clear, concise, but thorough group-by-group treatment of all major taxa including plants, reptiles, land and sea birds, mammals, and a brief section covering marine life. While there are other guidebooks available, none come close to the accuracy, clarity of presentation, and logical format of this book. Of particular usefulness are the many photos, tables, and graphs which provide a visual representation of many of the topics discussed and a synthesis of large amounts of data.
Book Description
From grain to glass, Whiskey tells you everything and anything you'll ever want to know about whiskey, from storing and serving whiskey, whiskey cocktails, to pairing whiskey with food. Whether interested in the story behind aromas and flavors, what makes certain distilleries unique or how weather and environment influence taste‹this is the most fascinating illustrated examination of whiskey on the market.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Whiskey Book.......2007-08-15
Michael Jackson attempts to tackle a broad subject and does so fairly well. Although, because of scope, little space is dedicated to any one distillery or bottling, none the less if you're a Whisk(e)y enthusiast it's a fun read and a great coffee table book---the pictures alone make it worth the read.
Devin
Head Drinker
[..]
Wonderful Reference.......2006-08-05
Michael Jacksons books seem to be of two basic types;the handy reference size or the coffee table sized folio or tome.This is one of the later. A large book even by his standards, it will probably be considered the definitive work on Whisky for years to come and take it's place with Gary and Mardee Regans Work "The Book of Bourbon" as the standard reposistory of all knowledge and wisdom on the subject at least for the masses if not the cognescenti of whisky for years to come.Generously illustrated and well written it is a cornerstone addition to a whiskey book collection. That being said,while a great attempt to cover the field of whisky and full of very useful and entertaining information, it lacks the details of his and others more specialized books on the subject that some may wish to ferret out.
Worthwhile addition.......2006-02-16
To me, this book is a little more 'coffee-table-book-like' with great info and nice pictures of most of the worlds whiskeys & their environs. there are some guidebook-like reviews of tastings but not as much as MJ's "Complete Guide to Single Malt Scotch" which should be part of your collection already! i would go for these two before i went for the 'whiskey bible' which is just tasting notes, jmho,,,,
Beautiful and informative........2006-01-09
This book describes the whiskey making process very thoroughly and has many beautiful pictures of the process from barley fields, to coopers, to the stills. Also, the pictures of the various countries (and distilleries) in which whiskey is made are beautiful and evocative. Although this book is not intended to be a buyer's guide, I do wish that he were a bit more opinionated in his tastings (he describes the aromas and flavors, but doesn't often make a judgement about the overall quality of the whiskey) and that he included some indication of price range of the whiskies that he describes. All in all, a beautiful book that will likely delight anyone (even relative newbies like this reviewer) interested in the whiskies of the world.
He Discussed My Favorite Brands, Ergo a Good Book.......2005-09-21
First off, this Michael Jackson is note THAT Michael Jackson. This Michael Jackson is a consulting editor for Whiskey Magazine, and this book is a summary of years of study of what else -- whiskey.
The first couple of chapters give a general introduction to whiskey. What it is, how is made, the stuff it's made of, just about every aspect. This section goes into pretty good detail giving the interested reader a pretty fair understanding of the whole process.
The back part of the book, and by far the biggest part is called The Whiskey Countries. Beginning with Scotland, and then on to Ireland, Canada, The United States, Japan and the rest of the world he discusses not all of the whiskey's produced, but spends more time on the higher quality brands. I went to look at my favorite brands first, and they were all there.
The problem with these 'best bourbons' is that they are sometimes very difficult to get once you go very far from home. Tomorrow a friend is coming to visit from Virginia. He has promised to bring a couple of bottles of Virginia Gentlemen Small Batch.
Book Description
There are two types of barriers that can hinder an excon's successful re-entry into society. There are those created by public policy and public attitude. However, in too many cases, there are also those barriers he creates for himself by lacking a plan, the right attitude, or the personal commitment to see it through. "How to Do Good After Prison" is a practical guide of advice, insight, and motivation to help ex-prisoners overcome the barriers and succeed after prison.
Customer Reviews:
Practical, Common Sense Advice.......2007-09-05
My son has been back and forth to prison for 20 yr. + . I bought him this book and to my amazement he is reading it. He tells me about it all the time. It has given him some great food for thought. I hope he finishes it and refers to it in difficult times. He is going to share it with his Parole Officer.
Lots of info! .......2007-03-28
This is the 2nd book I have read by Mr. Jackson, and have passed this along to others that are in the similar situation. Great, easy read. Wealth of information! Mr. Jackson himself is an inspiration!
An Awesome Book, It just needed a little more proof reading!.......2006-08-15
The book is an insightful honest passionate look into what issues an ex-convict will have to face when they are released. The book is basically a lot of very common sense advice to ex-convicts written and presented in a language and style I am sure they are uniquely qualified by their prison experiences to understand.
While I suggest the book has lots of so called, "Common Sense" advice I speak as a man who has never been to prison and will hopefully never know the prison experience first hand. What is simple basic "Common Sense" self respect, personal dignity, manners, and civics' 101 that I learned at my grandmothers knee and at church is likely a strange new world to ex-convicts. I am the product of a loving home and strong grandparents who took time to teach me to be a strong civil respectful black gentleman. I am a far cry from ex-convicts many of whom had no strong father figure so they learned how to survive on the hard cold gang and thug infested streets.
This book is a rough blueprint designed to show life long thugs and ex convicts with the desire to improve themselves how to strive for goals and demand levels of respect far greater than what a clinched jaw, a strong fist and a loaded gun will ever bring them. The book is written by a person who speaks a highly cultured rarified version of prisonese but that just proves he is real when he says he divorced himself from his former prison life \ mentality.
The author states specifically that this book alone will NOT save an ex-convict from themselves. The author states correctly that this book is merely a tool. Honestly it is not the quality of this book as a tool that defines the likelihood of an ex-convicts ultimate success. It is the strength desire and passion to rehabilitate them selves that burns in the heart of an individual ex-convict that will determine the effectiveness they make of the awesome tool this book can become in the hands of an ex-convict who is committed to eventual total success.
The book does not sugar coat reality. The book does tell the reader that they will face the once a convict always a convict felon mentality and how that Neanderthal mindset is particularly dangerous for them during any encounters with police. The book tries and effectively teaches the balance an ex-convict must walk because, many in this society never totally forgives an ex-con no matter how much crime free straight time they have racked up. The book teaches that sometimes you survive by letting most fools be themselves unmolested because for an ex-convict fighting a fool is just an engraved invite back to prison and NO FOOL IS WORTH THE LOSS OF FREEDOM, DIGNITY AND YOUR GOALS a fight demands.
I used to help ex-convicts learn community living skills after being released from long periods of incarceration and I remember teaching the exact same lessons this book offers. Many ex-convicts honestly want to go straight but they don't know how and few people skilled at living the crime free life actually want to teach ex-convicts how to live crime free. Most crime free people are afraid of ex-convicts because, they have too much to lose if an ex-convict is just running a game about living crime free. At the time as a disabled black man on government subsidies I had nothing to lose, so I could risk helping ex-convicts and did. I found IF an ex-convict was totally serious about living crime free and getting his life together your guidance, friendship, support and time were his private stash of gold and he would defend, protect and love you as if you were a beloved family member.
Weird thing is a convict wanting to live crime free is often the best friend a crime free teacher could have. I laugh at times when I see successful old ex-con friends I taught community living skills to upon their release because, I am like so TOTALLY a straight arrow Joe citizen looking disabled geek people do a double take when some thuggish looking dude walks up, hugs me crying tears as if he has found a long lost family member. I shared my story here because this book teaches everything I used to teach ex-convicts how live in society and I know for the committed real man these pearls of wisdom all work but only if an ex-con remains strong enough to stay crime free no matter what to the very end! This book teaches that despite all the prison convictions and hellish prison experiences there is hope. Ex-convicts are garbage only if they buy into other loathesome peoples ignorant stereotypes and if they do so they have only themselves to blame for their own weakness. Society in this way is just like prison life. If you let other stuck up people in society steal your hope, your joy and commitment to live crime free then society has made you its punk slave society has turned you out. In society its about keeping your dignity, commitment to living crime free and love of others when society does its best to turn you out as its punk slave rotting in its prison like an animal whose upkeep feeds someone else's children and builds others families while yours go wanting. Look at prison for what it is. Prison is a capitalist society's way of culling then turning out its weakest, uneducated or most vulnerable people for use as slaves to feed this nations growing prison industrial complex.
To all the ex-cons out there trying to go straight and live a crime free life you have my undying love, respect and admiration gentlemen, stay strong and do not let anyone steal your joy or commitment to live as your own man instead of enslaved property in some fools prison. Hugs love my constant prayers to a higher power and peace to you my brothers and sista's!
Finally a good book from someone who's been there.......2006-03-23
As the mother of a son who is currently in prison, I have ordered several books in an attempt to get some kind of idea of what we can expect both in prison and when he gets out. This is one of only two books that I have found to be most helpful. The writer has a unique understanding of the system on both sides of the barbed wire and gives some excellent tips on how to succeed. Our family has never dealt with anything like this so we are completely in the dark and this book shined the light on some points I had never thought of that might have taken me by surprise if I had not read this book first. I highly recommend this book both for inmates and their families.
An Answer to a Prayer.......2003-08-23
I was so happy to find this book. I bought one for myself and one for my husband. It was really helpful in many ways.
Customer Reviews:
Great info on most beer styles.......2005-09-13
As a homebrewer, I found this book to be very helpful in creating recipes for various styles of beer. He goes into good detail about them and provides descriptions of a few primary examples of styles. If I have any criticism it would be that I would have done away with the "cooking with beer" articles at the end of the book (you can find better and more comprehensive info elsewhere) and instead added more info about obscure beer styles such as American Stock Ale, Baltic Porter, Kellerbier, Finnish Sahti, Kentucky Common Beer, etc.
Just what America needs: Beer Education.......2003-11-20
Author Michael Jackson is probably my favorite beer writer and critic. He has traveled all over America and the world, attending events, visiting breweries, and tasting beer. He has extensive knowledge on the subject of beer and he shares that knowledge in this book.
Jackson writes this book in a very simple, easy to understand manner. He doesn't use long words that require the use of a dictionary to understand. He keeps it simple while he educates the reader sbout the subject of beer. He begins by talking about the history of the world's greatest beverage, from the ancient days when beer was discovered all the way to the present day and the resurgence of craft- brewing. He talks about the various ingredients used in beer and explains how best to match beer with food. The bulk of the book covers each individual style of beer, with facts, trivia, and full- color photographs of beer labels, breweries, and other beer- related things.
Speaking of the photography, I found that it really adds to the enjoyment and understanding of the subject matter. It would not be very exciting to read a book about beer that contained nothing but text. The pictures really make a difference with this type of book. They keep the reader entertained and informed about different aspects of beer and the brewing industry.
Overall, this is one of the best books on beer I have ever read. Grab a copy and see for yourself how much there is to know and love about the greatest beverage known to man- beer!
Essential.......2002-02-07
Michael Jackson has long been considered one of (if not the) world's foremost experts on beer (so much so that those who love beer think of this Michael long before the putative Pop King Michael). And this book only adds to that well-deserved reputation.
Jackson's "Beer Companion" is loaded with color photos of many beer styles, labels, breweries, and watering holes and gives a decent history of the various brewing styles and tastes (very fascinating!). Mr. Jackson provides advice for what beers go with what foods (and it does matter) and suggests some good drinking establishments (and breweries) to visit if you're a world traveler. A good drinking companion indeed. Unfortunately, the book is somewhat large (and annoying to travel with) so you may be better off reading it first, taking some notes, and bringing the (also essential) Pocket Beer Guide with you instead. Enjoy.
Great overview of beer styles.......2000-09-15
Most of Jackson's other books are organized by region, shopping guides country-by-country. What makes this book particular useful is is attention to various beerstyles, with history and definition for each, along with listings of the classic examples. It's also a gorgeous book, with mouth-watering photos of beer and the geography of beer.
On another note, it's interesting that the only "reviews" that dismiss Jackson as a hack are unsigned. No e-mail addresses, just "a reader". Makes you wonder, doesn't it?
--Jeff Frane
The Beer Snob's Bible.......2000-06-27
If you love beer, and I mean LOVE beer, then this book is a great read. Its for anyone who knows that beer is far more than something to get drunk with, something more than just an after work relaxer, but instead a fine drink that, much like wine, is to be enjoyed for it's flavor, many different styles, and history. It can be dry and boring at times, but when you're looking for information on the world's best beers and traditions in style and flavor, this book is quite handy. It's interesting to say the least, and certainly informs the reader on quite a large bounty on different beer throught the world. Get it, but don't expect too much.
Oh yeah, it might make you thirsty.
Book Description
Too often, today's managers are sold simple solutions to complex problems. But as many soon discover, simplicity is rarely effective in the face of complexity, change and diversity. Despite apparent promise, quick-fix panaceas fail because they are not holistic or creative enough. They focus on parts of the organization rather than the whole, take little account of interaction, and pander to the notion that there is one best solution in all circumstances. As instances of such failure escalate, intelligent managers are increasingly seeking to improve results through Systems Thinking.
Whatever stage you are at in your study of Systems Thinking, this book will help. If you are new to the field then it will serve as a solid introduction. If you are familiar with a few concepts but not with how they can be linked and used by managers, then it will give you a greater understanding of how holistic ideas developed and how to use them in practice. And if you are expert in some approaches but not in others, then it will expand your knowledge and provide you with more choice. In all cases you will achieve competency in creative holism, emerge better equipped to solve complex problems, and ultimately become a more effective Systems Thinking manager.
“It’s neat, easy to read and easy to absorb... It is a boon to students and executives alike..”
J P. von Gigch in
Systems research and Behavioural Science
“ … excellent summary of the latest research findings and … very clear explanations and accessibility”
“No other recent book in the systems field aims for such an accessible and at the same time rigorous interpretation of the major developments of systems theory”
D. Petkov in
Journal of the Operational Research Society
“As far as I can tell there is no other book that includes all the major developments in systems thinking over the last fifty years”
Misha Hebel (Amazon Review)
Download Description
"Too often, today's managers are sold simple solutions to complex problems. But as many soon discover, simplicity is rarely effective in the face of complexity, change and diversity. Despite apparent promise, quick-fix panaceas fail because they are not holistic or creative enough. They focus on parts of the organization rather than the whole, take little account of interaction, and pander to the notion that there is one best solution in all circumstances. As instances of such failure escalate, intelligent managers are increasingly seeking to improve results through Systems Thinking.
Whatever stage you are at in your study of Systems Thinking, this book will help. If you are new to the field then it will serve as a solid introduction. If you are familiar with a few concepts but not with how they can be linked and used by managers, then it will give you a greater understanding of how holistic ideas developed and how to use them in practice. And if you are expert in some approaches but not in others, then it will expand your knowledge and provide you with more choice. In all cases you will achieve competency in creative holism, emerge better equipped to solve complex problems, and ultimately become a more effective Systems Thinking manager. "
Customer Reviews:
A great systems theory source book.......2005-01-25
As a long time student and teacher of systems thinking I welcome the addition of this book to the Amazon collection. As far as I can tell there is no other book that includes all the major developments in systems thinking over the last fifty years. This lack of a source book has in part meant that systems thinking has taken a back seat in management and business development in Europe.
The book starts by clarifying what the systems language means. As this a language that has been hijacked by colloquialism this section is an excellent primer for those wanting to understand the theoretical and philosophical roots of systems. This is followed by a look at applying systems thinking and in particular the creative nature of developments over the last couple of decades. This is an important aspect to be covered as many assume systems must be technical and rigid.
The bulk of the middle part of the book reviews the major developments in approaches, including Soft Systems Methodology, Complexity Theory and Systems Dynamics. These are clearly labelled, with background history, examples of application and clear illustrations. The value of each approach is explicitly stated in terms of management helping the reader to grasp which method might be most appropriate to their situation.
The final section helps the reader to decide how to maximise the benefit of the different holistic approaches. It draws them together using critical thinking approaches developed by the author and others. Examples of application are given although elements come across as a little too philosophical for the average manager.
Book Description
Oxford Handbooks offer authoritative and up-to-date surveys of original research in a particular subject area. Specially commissioned essays from leading figures in the discipline give critical examinations of the progress and direction of debates. Oxford Handbooks provide scholars and graduate students with compelling new perspectives upon a wide range of subjects in the humanities and social sciences. The Oxford Handbook of Contemporary Philosophy is the definitive guide to what's going on in this lively and fascinating subject. Jackson and Smith, themselves two of the world's most eminent philosophers, have assembled more than thirty distinguished scholars to contribute incisive and up-to-date critical surveys of the principal areas of research. The coverage is broad, with sections devoted to moral philosophy, social and political philosophy, philosophy of mind and action, philosophy of language, metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of the sciences. This Handbook will be a rich source of insight and stimulation for philosophers, students of philosophy, and for people working in other disciplines of the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, who are interested in the state of philosophy today.
Book Description
A primer on the evolution of particle physics and the search for the fundamental building blocks of matter. The book presents the full current body of understanding of particle physics in way accessible to a reader with some basic principles of physics (energy, momentum, electrical charge). This concise book tells the fascinating story of how 20th century physicists revealed layer upon layer of structure within the atom to reach the basic particles of matter, and then culminates in descriptions of current theories which form the Standard Model and the discovery of the top quark. Includes chapters on cosmology. The book includes many illustrations and photographs, and integrates the stories of the individual scientists throughout. Includes 4 color photographs, and the famous "Particle Chart". The book is a collaboration among eminent physicists (including J.D. Jackson and G. Goldhaber) at LBL, CERN and high school teachers in the Contemporary Physics Education Project to develop a novel book to teach particle physics to students.Book can thus be used as a supplement for courses in advanced high school and physics courses. FROM THE REVIEWS: ¿¿Recommended as a supplementary text for introductory college courses or for advanced high-school courses; science teachers will find it useful for updating their knowledge in an ever-expanding field of physics research.¿ ¿PHYSICS TODAY
Customer Reviews:
Simple. Very simple........2005-02-20
Simple is both good and bad here. I've had a lingering interest in partticle phyics for years and bought this book when the university bookstore was clearing shelves. It is not the first book I've read on this stuff, but perhaps the most comprehensive attempt to cover a large subject. My frustrations came from knowing, on very few occasions, more than the book would tell. Too often fascinating subject matter is shown to you just long enough to pique your curiosity before they switch gears. Thus you are frequently left with an incomplete picture of processes that are, in ways, less complicated that they seem from the text with its lack of clarifying details. With some more thorough explanations this book could be fantastic.
For an overview and a primer this book stil beats the subatmoic snot out of all the other books I've read, and would be the only one I'd recommend to a novice "layperson."
Be careful about where you read this book, though. On a few occasions I was approached by a young lady at a local coffee shop to "what are you reading?" Yeah, particle physics textbooks don't always impress people in the most favorable ways. I still love it though.
Buy this book and learn something new and massively intriguing.
A great introduction to concepts of particle physics.......2003-01-28
I found this book easy to read and fun. Ive gone back to it several times and still enjoy it each time I open the pages.
With only a highschool backround but an interest in science, I would recommend this book for those who are curious about the world around us but dont have the time or the math skills to grind through a deeper introduction.
Information a wannabe physicist can use.......2001-08-08
I wanted a book that would provide me a readable introduction to the world of particle physics. My days at university are a distant memory and I didn't want to wade through reams of notes or a modern text book just so I could satisfy my mild interest in knowing a little more about the subject. The Charm of Strange Quarks was just what I needed. Not only did it provide me with the theory, but also stimulated my interest by giving some historical background. The theory is presented in a simple structured manner, but is also sufficiently challenging to keep me humble in any desire I may have to become an instant particle physicist.
My only two minor irritations: Firstly I did not find the sequence of presenting the theory and the use of Appendices helpful. It made me feel that I was being shown one thing then before I got really familiar with it I would be whisked off to be shown something else and expected to put it all together myself. Secondly I would have liked a couple of new side bar type boxes to be included headed "... and in plain English!" and "This is what it means to you". The side bars and boxes that are included are very interesting and helpful.
I have no idea what a true particle physicist would think of the book, but for me it is exactly what I was looking for and will remain on my bookshelf for further exploration when I feel like taking my brain out for some exercise.
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