This readable and deeply informed book examines the threat that Islamic extremists pose to the United States and provides a balanced and nuanced discussion of Iraq as a test case of America's war on terrorism. Explaining the basics of Islam and guiding the reader through the intricacies of each significant extremist group; the authors answer key questions: Who are the Jihadists and how do they fit within the broader context of the Islamic religion? What is their war plan and how do they operate? Who are their allies and what are their weaknesses? What is the experience of Israel; the Islamic world; and the United States in fighting Islamic extremists? How can they be defeated? Drawing on decades of experience in the Middle East; the authors provide the only current analysis of the vulnerabilities of the Jihadists; linking those weaknesses to concrete strategies to defeat them. The Palmers trace the movement far beyond Osama bin Laden and the now-splintering al-Qaeda into a range of autonomous networks. The authors also provide extensive information on the Muslim Brotherhood; Hizbullah; and other extremist groups attempting to achieve an Islamic state by more-or-less peaceful means. Their relationship with the Jihadists and their potential for violence are explored in detail. The book also provides the first in-depth discussion of the evolution of a vibrant Hizbullah organization in Iraq. This vitally important work reflects the authors' thorough understanding of the culture and history of the Muslim world. Careful in its analysis; its subtle observations pay tribute to the authors' thirty years of working with Middle Eastern organizations and conducting pioneering studies in the areas of Arab psychology and political behavior. The Palmers effectively combine an engaging writing style and extensive personal experience into an invaluable resource for both policy makers and general readers.
#1585875 in Books 2015-01-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.90 x .80 x 6.20l; .0 #File Name: 0739188003274 pages
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. A must read for Austrian Economics and the Free Market!By A. MillerI bought this book a number of years ago and enjoyed it and wanted to share it. When I attempted to give it to my parish priest; he asked that I donate it to the parish library. Hence; I gave away my only copy; thinking that I had no further need of it.After reading Pope Francis' encyclical; "Laudato Si"; I started writing commentaries on specific paragraphs of that document. I really wanted to go back and refresh myself with a primer on Austrian economics; but written from a Catholic perspective as to the authority of the Pope on matters that seemed to go beyond his realm of "faith and morals." Thus I recently purchased the Kindle version of Dr. Woods book; "The Church and the Market" in order to clarify my own thinking regarding the Pope's recent encyclical.I find now that I have reread this book; that it is far more than a "Catholic" book. Although Dr. Woods does a masterful job of tying in the teachings of the Church on social justice with his primer on Austrian economics; I find that first and foremost; this book is a primer on Austrian economics. I highly recommend this book to any non-Catholic as their second book on Austrian economics. The first book I would recommend is "Economics in One Lesson" by Henry Hazlitt; in order to understand the critical point that in order to do a clear economic analysis; one must consider what is unseen with what is seen. Once you understand that concept; it is time to pick up this book!I love reading Dr. Woods; and have several of his other books. He writes in a way that is both clear and concise. He has that rare gift among writers in that he writes for laymen; and is easily understood. He gives excellent examples of common ordinary items or situations to explain economic laws; and the points that he tries to make about them. I highly recommend any Thomas E. Woods book that covers any subject in which you have an interest. I find all of his books enjoyable; and difficult to put down.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Misconceptions have led to centuries of misled followers as it relates to Christianity and the Austrian School of EconomicsBy DonttreadonmeMany Church leaders; Popes included; have had a distorted view of Austrian Economics. This has led; over the years; to bad political decisions. Austrian Economics; as the author shows; is the economic system that best reflects the justice and fairness that the Bible preaches. Everyone of Faith should read this volume and allow it to open your eyes to the truths found therein.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Excellent case for the free marketBy Daren TobertAs a Christian; I have struggled to find ways of explaining the glorious order God has placed in the universe in the laws of economics. Tom outlines well how many so-called libertarian positions are really just facts of nature; not really subject to debate. Wonderful book.
