In his foreword; Seyyed Hossein Nasr writes: "Over forty years have passed since the death of Ananda Coomaraswamy; yet his writings remain as pertinent today as when he wrote them; and his voice echoes in the ears of present-day seekers of truth and lovers of traditional art as it did a generation ago. In contrast to most scholarly works which become outdated and current philosophical opuses which become stale; Coomaraswamy's works possess a timeliness that flows from their being rooted in the eternal present. It is therefore with joy that one can welcome a new collection of essays of this formidable metaphysician and scholar."
#1009814 in Books Brigham Distributing 2010-11-03Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 2.04 x 6.32 x 9.22l; 1.91 #File Name: 0934364206653 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Get it. Read it. Share it.By zastrongThis is one of W. Clean Skousen's masterworks. Few books truly delve into the spirit that accompanied the Founding Fathers as they crafted our government as well or thoroughly as does this. You will also find a very useful explanation of how Biblical/Israelite law and society functioned. On top or this; you are treated to a superb retelling of many important world events through history; including histories of Greek and Roman political philosophy. I couldn't recommend this more. Buy it and then spread this important information.22 of 24 people found the following review helpful. A critical book for understanding the roots of FreedomBy J. S. HarrisSkousen focuses on the writings that influenced the Founders of the US Constitution; the writings of the Founders themselves and the principles that were used to create the American Republic. It is well researched and well written. About 1/3 of the source material for the Founders was the Bible.There are a few places where he repeats himself; but it's not significant. It should be noted that while he uses history as a backdrop; this is not a history text; but rather an exploration of the principles of Freedom. Skousen primarily focuses on making the material easy to read; which sometimes results in dropping details he seems to consider a distraction.Most people are not aware that the Republic referred to by Franklin in his famous quote "a Republic; Madam; if you can keep it;" did not last more than about 30 years. The decline of the US started with the introduction of political parties. George Washington was not a member of any political party and did not run for office. He was chosen by representatives and accepted the position. Skousen discusses why the Founders selected a Republic and presents a very readable account of the initial structures of American government and the intrusions that have continued to erode them.One reviewer has commented that Skousen is overly critical of Alexander Hamilton. Personally; I thought his characterization of Hamilton was very fair. Hamilton supported a monarchy in the US and was a strong supporter of the first central bank. Jefferson opposed the central bank even more strongly than Hamilton supported it; but Washington was more concerned about the national debt and sided with Hamilton. Skousen presents this discussion and the impact of these decisions on the Constitution. He also discusses why the introduction of central banks in the US was/is a major threat to Freedom. (See the book "The Creature from Jekyll Island") Skousen uses this historical backdrop to discuss the principles of a free market money system; which is critical to preserving freedom; something Jefferson clearly understood.Anyone who believes in Freedom and desires to understand the principles that support a free people should consider this book a 'must read.'0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I bought this book for my husband. He really ...By AmandaI bought this book for my husband. He really enjoys Cleon Skousen books and he is enjoying this book so far! It was fairly priced. And though I have not read this myself; my husband has shared tidbits from parts that he found particularly interesting; and what he has shared has been very thought provoking.