Zdenek's bookshelf: read en-US Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:47:57 -0700 60 Zdenek's bookshelf: read 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный]]> 56581126
Сергей Зотов � культурный антрополог, младший научный сотрудник библиотеки герцога Августа (Вольфенбюттель, Германия), аспирант Уорикского университета (Великобритания), лауреат премии «Просветитель» за бестселлер «Страдающее Средневековье. Парадоксы христианской иконографии».]]> 416 Сергей Зотов 5171179867 Zdenek 4 2024
Один из основных плюсов аудиокниги � это не только богатое содержание, но и великолепная работа чтеца. Голос, который сопровождает нас через эту книгу, приятно слушать; он умело передает тон и атмосферу каждой главы, делая даже сложные моменты понятными и увлекательными. Темп чтения и интонации идеально соответствуют содержанию, что позволяет глубже погружаться в мир алхимии.

Содержание книги заслуживает особого внимания: Зотов охватывает огромное количество материала, делая это структурированно и последовательно. Автор умело соединяет исторические факты, мифы и научные открытия, предлагая слушателям обширный обзор развития алхимии как науки и философии.

Эта аудиокнига � находка для тех, кто интересуется историей науки и философии, а также для всех, кто хочет узнать больше о таинственном мире алхимии. Отличная подача и тщательно проработанное содержание делают её обязательной к прослушиванию.

Я был особенно рад, что смог развивать свою русскую речь, которую я использую каждый день. Прослушивание аудиокниг, таких как «История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» Сергея Зотова, не только позволяет мне углубиться в интересные исторические темы, но и помогает совершенствовать мой русский язык. Каждая новая глава этой книги обогащает мой словарный запас и улучшает понимание структуры языка, что делает её прослушивание не только увлекательным, но и полезным.

Merged review:

История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» представляет собой захватывающее и информативное путешествие через века, исследуя эволюцию алхимических знаний от древних времен до наших дней. Зотов, будучи опытным исследователем и писателем, мастерски ведет слушателя через лабиринты алхимии, раскрывая её влияние на науку и культуру.

Один из основных плюсов аудиокниги � это не только богатое содержание, но и великолепная работа чтеца. Голос, который сопровождает нас через эту книгу, приятно слушать; он умело передает тон и атмосферу каждой главы, делая даже сложные моменты понятными и увлекательными. Темп чтения и интонации идеально соответствуют содержанию, что позволяет глубже погружаться в мир алхимии.

Содержание книги заслуживает особого внимания: Зотов охватывает огромное количество материала, делая это структурированно и последовательно. Автор умело соединяет исторические факты, мифы и научные открытия, предлагая слушателям обширный обзор развития алхимии как науки и философии.

Эта аудиокнига � находка для тех, кто интересуется историей науки и философии, а также для всех, кто хочет узнать больше о таинственном мире алхимии. Отличная подача и тщательно проработанное содержание делают её обязательной к прослушиванию.

Я был особенно рад, что смог развивать свою русскую речь, которую я использую каждый день. Прослушивание аудиокниг, таких как «История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» Сергея Зотова, не только позволяет мне углубиться в интересные исторические темы, но и помогает совершенствовать мой русский язык. Каждая новая глава этой книги обогащает мой словарный запас и улучшает понимание структуры языка, что делает её прослушивание не только увлекательным, но и полезным.]]> 4.25 История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный
author: Сергей Зотов
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/19
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: 2024
review:
История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» представляет собой захватывающее и информативное путешествие через века, исследуя эволюцию алхимических знаний от древних времен до наших дней. Зотов, будучи опытным исследователем и писателем, мастерски ведет слушателя через лабиринты алхимии, раскрывая её влияние на науку и культуру.

Один из основных плюсов аудиокниги � это не только богатое содержание, но и великолепная работа чтеца. Голос, который сопровождает нас через эту книгу, приятно слушать; он умело передает тон и атмосферу каждой главы, делая даже сложные моменты понятными и увлекательными. Темп чтения и интонации идеально соответствуют содержанию, что позволяет глубже погружаться в мир алхимии.

Содержание книги заслуживает особого внимания: Зотов охватывает огромное количество материала, делая это структурированно и последовательно. Автор умело соединяет исторические факты, мифы и научные открытия, предлагая слушателям обширный обзор развития алхимии как науки и философии.

Эта аудиокнига � находка для тех, кто интересуется историей науки и философии, а также для всех, кто хочет узнать больше о таинственном мире алхимии. Отличная подача и тщательно проработанное содержание делают её обязательной к прослушиванию.

Я был особенно рад, что смог развивать свою русскую речь, которую я использую каждый день. Прослушивание аудиокниг, таких как «История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» Сергея Зотова, не только позволяет мне углубиться в интересные исторические темы, но и помогает совершенствовать мой русский язык. Каждая новая глава этой книги обогащает мой словарный запас и улучшает понимание структуры языка, что делает её прослушивание не только увлекательным, но и полезным.

Merged review:

История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» представляет собой захватывающее и информативное путешествие через века, исследуя эволюцию алхимических знаний от древних времен до наших дней. Зотов, будучи опытным исследователем и писателем, мастерски ведет слушателя через лабиринты алхимии, раскрывая её влияние на науку и культуру.

Один из основных плюсов аудиокниги � это не только богатое содержание, но и великолепная работа чтеца. Голос, который сопровождает нас через эту книгу, приятно слушать; он умело передает тон и атмосферу каждой главы, делая даже сложные моменты понятными и увлекательными. Темп чтения и интонации идеально соответствуют содержанию, что позволяет глубже погружаться в мир алхимии.

Содержание книги заслуживает особого внимания: Зотов охватывает огромное количество материала, делая это структурированно и последовательно. Автор умело соединяет исторические факты, мифы и научные открытия, предлагая слушателям обширный обзор развития алхимии как науки и философии.

Эта аудиокнига � находка для тех, кто интересуется историей науки и философии, а также для всех, кто хочет узнать больше о таинственном мире алхимии. Отличная подача и тщательно проработанное содержание делают её обязательной к прослушиванию.

Я был особенно рад, что смог развивать свою русскую речь, которую я использую каждый день. Прослушивание аудиокниг, таких как «История алхимии. Путешествие философского камня из бронзового века в атомный» Сергея Зотова, не только позволяет мне углубиться в интересные исторические темы, но и помогает совершенствовать мой русский язык. Каждая новая глава этой книги обогащает мой словарный запас и улучшает понимание структуры языка, что делает её прослушивание не только увлекательным, но и полезным.
]]> <![CDATA[The Sense of Being Stared At : And Other Aspects of the Extended Mind]]> 125432872 The Sense of Being Stared At, renowned biologist Rupert Sheldrake explores the intricacies of the mind and discovers that our perceptive abilities are stronger than most of us could have imagined.

Sheldrake argues persuasively in this compelling book that such phenomena are, in fact, real. He rejects the label of "paranormal" and shows how these psychic occurrences are in fact a normal part of human nature. Combining the tradition of pragmatic experimentation with a refusal to accept the conventional answers to explain such phenomena, Sheldrake pioneers an intriguing new inquiry into the mysteries of our deepest nature. Rigorously researched yet completely accessible, this groundbreaking book provides a refreshing new way of thinking about ourselves and our relationships with other people, animals, and the world around us.

There are 4 parts:
Part 1: Telepathy
Part 2: The Power of Attention
Part 3: Remote Viewing and Foreshadowings of the Future
Part 4: How does the 7th Sense Work?

The book begins by explaining how the "Sixth Sense" has already been claimed by biologists working on the electrical and magnetic senses of animals. Eels use electrical fields to sense objects around them, sharks and rays use similar fields to hunt, migratory birds and fish have a magnetic senses (biological compass), snakes have heat-sensing abilities, spiders detect web vibrations, etc.

Mr. Sheldrake explains how the 7th sense is biological, not supernatural. It extends beyond the body, though how is not exactly known. "To brush aside what people have experienced is not to be scientific, but unscientific. Science is founded on empirical method..." (experience and observation). "But despite an impresssive accumulation of evidence, psychic research has never been accepted within institutional sciences. It has been kept on the margins as a result of powerful taboos against the "paranormal."

"In the background lurks the archaic fear of witchcraft."]]> 384 Rupert Sheldrake Zdenek 0 to-read 3.33 2003 The Sense of Being Stared At : And Other Aspects of the Extended Mind
author: Rupert Sheldrake
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2003
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/26
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]]> Feeling Is the Secret 11485130 Feeling is The Secretshows readers how they can quickly attain their goals simply by refining their imagination. Your thoughts shape your life, create your reality, and ultimately limit or expand your true potential. The book describes how our thoughts and feelings affect who we become and what we achieve. When we have the power to change them, we gain the power to change our circumstances, our health, and our life's purpose. There is a treasure in it, a clearly defined road to the realization of your dreams.

]]> 108 Neville Goddard 9561000199 Zdenek 0 currently-reading 4.33 2004 Feeling Is the Secret
author: Neville Goddard
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2004
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> Proste prawdy o przywodztwie 97070238 164 Randy Conley Ken Blanchard 8382311725 Zdenek 0 to-read 0.0 Proste prawdy o przywodztwie
author: Randy Conley Ken Blanchard
name: Zdenek
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
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]]> The Grid 48802767 'A highly original, electrifying read' The Times
'A stylish, riveting thriller' Daily Mail
'An assured page-turner ... it combines action and foreign locations with big ideas a la Dan Brown' Sunday Times

Every day the President of the United States receives death threats. Every day his security team tell him there’s nothing to worry about. Today is different. Today he doesn’t believe them. Because he has been dreaming about his own death � over and over. A repeating nightmare that is so real, it feels like a warning.

Josh Cain, President’s Thompson’s doctor, is summoned to a church tower near the White House. A military psychiatrist with a complex past, he thinks he is there to talk down another suicidal ex-Marine. But this veteran tells him of a plot against Thompson, revealing secrets he can’t possibly have known � just seconds before a sniper’s bullet takes him out . . .

Battles have been fought man to man, then machine to machine, and even in cyberspace. But now there is a different battlefield human consciousness and the fight for our minds.]]> 407 Nick Cook Zdenek 0 to-read 3.34 2019 The Grid
author: Nick Cook
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.34
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[The Hunt for Zero Point: Inside the Classified World of Antigravity Technology]]> 22198
The Hunt for Zero Point explores the scientific speculation that “zero point� energy—a limitless source of potential power that may hold the key to defying and thereby controlling gravity—exists in the universe and can be replicated. The pressure to be the first nation to harness gravity is immense, as it means having the ability to build military planes of unlimited speed and range, along with the most deadly weaponry the world has ever seen. The ideal shape for a gravity-defying vehicle happens to be a perfect disk, making antigravity tests a possible explanation for numerous UFO sightings during the past fifty years.

Drawn from interviews with those involved int the research and visits to labs in Europe and the United States, The Hunt for Zero Point is a captivating account of the twentieth century’s most puzzling unexplained phenomenon.
]]> 320 Nick Cook 0767906284 Zdenek 0 to-read, 2025 4.07 2001 The Hunt for Zero Point: Inside the Classified World of Antigravity Technology
author: Nick Cook
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2001
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, 2025
review:

]]> Pokrevní bratrstvo 34328367 John Dickie, autor knihy Cosa nostra, se ponořil ještě hlouběji do archivů a ve světle nejnovějších poznatků rozkrývá vznik a historii tří nejvýznamnějších odnoží italské mafie: sicilské Cosy nostry, neapolské Camorry a kalábrijské ’Ndranghety. Na jednotlivých příbězích ukazuje tragické osudy statečných mužů a žen, kteří se mafii postavili a představuje heroické soudce a policisty, kteří proti mafii neúnavně bojovali a často ve jménu spravedlnosti položili život.]]> 448 John Dickie 8073216485 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.50 2011 Pokrevní bratrstvo
author: John Dickie
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[The Web of Life: A New Scientific Understanding of Living Systems]]> 314114 The Tao of Physics and The Turning Point, Fritjof Capra juxtaposed physics and mysticism to define a new vision of reality. Now, in The Web of Life, he takes yet another giant step forward, offering a brilliant synthesis of such recent scientific breakthroughs as the theory of complexity, Gaia theory, and chaos theory. 25 line drawings.]]> 347 Fritjof Capra 0385476760 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.19 1996 The Web of Life: A New Scientific Understanding of Living Systems
author: Fritjof Capra
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.19
book published: 1996
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[Holograficzny wszechswiat. Naukowe dowody jak mysl wplywa na rzeczywistosc, wydanie 2]]> 150505710 408 Michael Talbot 8383013787 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.00 Holograficzny wszechswiat. Naukowe dowody jak mysl wplywa na rzeczywistosc, wydanie 2
author: Michael Talbot
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[The Holographic Universe: The Revolutionary Theory of Reality]]> 123842315 353 Michael Talbot Zdenek 0 to-read 4.35 The Holographic Universe: The Revolutionary Theory of Reality
author: Michael Talbot
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[Mysticism and the New Physics (Compass)]]> 193589
Until recently, the empirical approach of physicists such as Newton has taught us that the world exists with or without human consciousness to observe it. But we can never be totally objective about reality. The human mind, with all its preconceived notions and prejudices, always intrudes, even in the most scientific of experiments, making true objectivity impossible to achieve.

The new physicists state that reality is a combination of the laws of the physical world, quantifiable and unequivocal, and the subjective viewpoint of the observer. This “omnijective view� of the universe challenges all our most deeply held scientific beliefs and could radically change the way we view reality in the future. As our constructs are amended to this shift in approach, we can anticipate monumental changes in Western thought.]]> 185 Michael Talbot 0140193286 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.97 1980 Mysticism and the New Physics (Compass)
author: Michael Talbot
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1980
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> The Holographic Universe 319014
Now, two of the world's most eminent thinkers -- University of London physicists David Bohm, a former protege of Einstein's and one of the world's most respected quantum physicists, and Stanford neurophysiologist Karl Pribram, one of the architects of our modern understanding of the brain -- believe that the universe itself may be a giant hologram, quite literally a kind of image or construct created, at least in part, by the human mind.

This remarkable new way of looking at the universe explains not only many of the unsolved puzzles of physics, but also such mysterious occurrences as telepathy, out-of-body and near death experiences, "lucid" dreams, and even religious and mystical experiences such as feelings of cosmic unity and miraculous healings.]]> 338 Michael Talbot 0060922583 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.14 1991 The Holographic Universe
author: Michael Talbot
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.14
book published: 1991
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
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]]> <![CDATA[The Cosmic Serpent: DNA and the Origins of Knowledge]]> 865516 Medical Tribune said might herald "a Copernican revolution for the life sciences," leads the reader through unexplored jungles and uncharted aspects of mind to the heart of knowledge.In a first-person narrative of scientific discovery that opens new perspectives on biology, anthropology, and the limits of rationalism, The Cosmic Serpent reveals how startlingly different the world around us appears when we open our minds to it.]]> 257 Jeremy Narby 0874779642 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.18 1998 The Cosmic Serpent: DNA and the Origins of Knowledge
author: Jeremy Narby
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1998
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> DMT: The Spirit Molecule 51654 A Doctor's Revolutionary Research into the Biology of Near-Death & Mystical Experiences.
A clinical psychiatrist explores the effects of DMT: A behind-the-scenes look at the cutting edge of psychedelic research.

From 1990 to 1995 Dr. Rick Strassman conducted US DEA-approved clinical research at the University of New Mexico in which he injected 60 volunteers with DMT, one of the most powerful psychedelics known. His detailed account of those sessions is an inquiry into the nature of the human mind and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. DMT, a plant-derived chemical that is also manufactured by the human brain, consistently produced near-death and mystical experiences. Many volunteers reported convincing encounters with intelligent nonhuman presences, especially "aliens." Nearly all felt that the sessions were among the most profound experiences of their lives.

Strassman's research connects DMT with the pineal gland, considered by Hindus to be the site of the seventh chakra and by René Descartes to be the seat of the soul. DMT: The Spirit Molecule makes the case that DMT, naturally released by the pineal gland, facilitates the soul's movement in and out of the body and is an integral part of the birth and death experiences, as well as the highest states of meditation and even sexual transcendence. Strassman also believes that alien abduction experiences are brought on by accidental releases of DMT. If used wisely, DMT could trigger a period of remarkable progress in the scientific exploration of the most mystical regions of the human mind and soul.]]> 363 Rick Strassman 0892819278 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.15 2000 DMT: The Spirit Molecule
author: Rick Strassman
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2000
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> O naturze, duchu i materii 52857975
Brytyjski biolog, Rupert Sheldrake, i amerykański duchowny, Matthew Fox, mają wspólne zainteresowanie w sięganiu poza zinstytucjonalizowaną naukę i mechanistyczną religię. Te dwa wybitne umysły współczesnych czasów prowadzą ze sobą dialogi, z których wyłania się nowa kosmologia, która przemawia zarówno do naszych serc, jak i umysłów.

Autorzy powracają do dawnego porządku widzenia świata, w którym natura była postrzegana przez ludzi jako żywy organizm. Z czasem ludzkość przyjęła mechanistyczny ogląd świata natury, poddając go coraz bardziej drobiazgowej analizie. Sheldrake i Fox pokazują nam proces, podczas którego zatraciliśmy więź ze światem natury i inspirują do tego, aby odnowić tę utraconą relację. To dzięki niej w naszym życiu może pojawić się nieznana wcześniej harmonia.


Prowadzą nas przez różne aspekty świata natury, odkrywając przed nami nowe oblicza natury i udowadniając, że jest ona żywym organizmem. Poruszają też kwestie związane z naszym doświadczaniem światła, ciemności, duszy, modlitwy, edukacji. Prezentują przykłady duchowych praktyk, które są zanurzone w naturze i uzmysławiają nam ile głębi można odnaleźć w tym, co przyzwyczailiśmy się traktować jako oczywiste. Omawiają również słynną kontrowersyjną hipotezę Sheldrake'a dotyczącą pól morficznych, które są zasadą porządkującą nie tylko w świecie natury lecz również w naszym życiu społecznym. Dowiemy się również dlaczego zdaniem tego biologa natura nie jest oparta na niezmiennych "prawach" (matematycznych czy fizycznych) lecz kierowana nawykami i zdolna do ewolucji. Co przemawia za tym, że jest ona naturą myślącą i czującą, zdolną do zmian i adaptacji?

Sheldrake i Fox przedstawiają duchowość, której integralnym elementem jest świat natury. Łączą pradawną, animistyczną wizję świata ze współczesnymi doniesieniami naukowymi.

W ich zaskakujących dialogach odnajdziemy również niezwykłą harmonię między dwoma pozornie przeciwstawnymi obozami - nauką i religią.

Pierwsze polskie wydanie: 2011]]> 276 Rupert Sheldrake 8365400189 Zdenek 0 to-read 2.00 1996 O naturze, duchu i materii
author: Rupert Sheldrake
name: Zdenek
average rating: 2.00
book published: 1996
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ways To Go Beyond And Why They Work]]> 43903466 0 Rupert Sheldrake 1473653436 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.92 Ways To Go Beyond And Why They Work
author: Rupert Sheldrake
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.92
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A New Science of Life: The Hypothesis of Morphic Resonance]]> 369071
The first edition of A New Science of Life created a furor when it appeared, provoking the outrage of the old-guard scientific community and the approbation of the new. The British journal Nature called it "the best candidate for burning there has been for many years." A lively debate ensued, as researchers devised experiments testing Sheldrake's hypothesis, including some involving millions of people through the medium of television. These developments are recorded in this revised and expanded edition.]]> 272 Rupert Sheldrake 0892815353 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.05 1981 A New Science of Life: The Hypothesis of Morphic Resonance
author: Rupert Sheldrake
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.05
book published: 1981
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Morphic Resonance: The Nature of Formative Causation]]> 6833728 352 Rupert Sheldrake 1594773173 Zdenek 0 currently-reading 4.13 2009 Morphic Resonance: The Nature of Formative Causation
author: Rupert Sheldrake
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology 1)]]> 40937 624 A.T. Fomenko 2913621058 Zdenek 5 2024 Astronomical Dating: Using historical descriptions of celestial phenomena, such as solar and lunar eclipses, Fomenko attempts to recalibrate historical timelines.
Statistical Pattern Recognition: He analyzes patterns in textual data to identify duplications and inconsistencies in historical accounts.
Critical Examination of Primary Sources: Fomenko questions the reliability of medieval chronicles and highlights potential biases or anachronisms in their interpretations.
While these approaches are not free from criticism, they represent a scientific effort to reassess historical narratives. They demand rigorous scrutiny and debate, not outright dismissal.
The critique presented in your review fails to substantively engage with Fomenko’s methodologies. Instead, it relies heavily on ridicule, misrepresentation, and ad hominem attacks. Examples of these issues include:
Sarcastic Dismissal: Your critique consistently mocks Fomenko’s ideas without addressing their underlying rationale. For example, the conflation of the First Crusade and the Trojan War is ridiculed through selective comparisons, ignoring Fomenko’s broader arguments about the cyclical nature of historical narratives.
Misrepresentation of Claims: The text simplifies Fomenko’s hypothesis about the misdating of classical civilizations to a strawman argument, framing it as an absurd conspiracy rather than engaging with his evidence or reasoning.
Lack of Scholarly Engagement: Your critique does not cite or analyze Fomenko’s actual work in detail, instead summarizing his claims in a caricatured manner that undermines serious discussion.
Addressing Specific Misrepresentations - Astronomical Dating: Your critique dismisses Fomenko’s astronomical analysis as “cheating,� failing to explain why his eclipse-based dating methods are invalid or how they might be improved. Such dismissals ignore the potential for astronomy to serve as an objective tool in historical analysis.
Statistical Comparisons:
You are accuses Fomenko of “cherry-picking� data but does not substantiate this claim with examples of how his data selection is flawed. It also neglects to consider the broader implications of pattern recognition in uncovering inconsistencies in traditional chronology.
Language and Numerals:
Fomenko’s hypothesis about Roman numerals and their misinterpretation is reduced to a mockery without addressing the linguistic or paleographical evidence he cites. Such an approach fails to engage with the complexity of medieval manuscript traditions.
Architectural Analysis:
The text criticizes Fomenko’s reclassification of classical buildings as medieval but does not address the archaeological or material evidence he presents. Instead, it relies on rhetorical questions and incredulity as substitutes for argumentation.
Flaws in the Text’s Tone and Argumentation
Your review employs language that is overtly hostile and dismissive, undermining its credibility as a scholarly critique. Phrases like "piss-poor example" and sarcastic comparisons detract from the seriousness of the argument. Academic discourse requires measured critique based on evidence, not emotional invective or ridicule.
Why Fomenko’s Work Warrants Critical Engagement
While Fomenko’s conclusions may appear radical, they provoke valuable questions about the reliability of historical sources and the construction of historical narratives. His work challenges scholars to:
Reevaluate assumptions about historical continuity and chronology.
Explore interdisciplinary approaches to historical study, incorporating mathematics, astronomy, and textual criticism.
Recognize the potential for bias and error in the transmission of historical records.
Engaging with Fomenko’s work does not necessitate accepting his conclusions, but it does require addressing his arguments with intellectual rigor and respect. Dismissing him as a “nationalist conspiracy theorist� without examining the merits and flaws of his methodology fails to advance the discourse.
My Conclusion
Anatoly Fomenko’s New Chronology represents an unconventional but methodologically intriguing attempt to rethink history. The critique presented in your review does little to refute his ideas meaningfully, instead relying on sarcasm and misrepresentation. A more productive approach would involve engaging critically with Fomenko’s methodologies, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and contributing to the broader dialogue about historical chronology.
PS: A Direct Note to You Ozymandias
If your approach to critique extends to the use of dismissive sarcasm and outright ridicule, I wonder how you would treat the works of Isaac Newton, who authored The Chronology of Ancient Kingdoms Amended. Newton, a figure of unparalleled intellectual achievement, also engaged in the reexamination of historical timelines, proposing revisions based on his interpretation of astronomical and historical evidence. Would you dare to apply the same derisive tone and mockery to his work as you have to Fomenko’s?
Newton's contributions to science, mathematics, and beyond are undeniable, but his forays into historical revisionism are a testament to the same spirit of inquiry that drove his other groundbreaking discoveries. Your critique here suggests a reluctance—or inability—to engage with challenging ideas on their own terms. This raises a question: do you possess the scholarly acumen to critique Newton with the same vigor, or is your disdain reserved selectively for those you perceive as more vulnerable to dismissal?
The irony is clear: by adopting a tone so far removed from scholarly discourse, you undermine your own credibility far more than Fomenko’s ideas could ever undermine the field of history. Constructive criticism, grounded in evidence and respect for intellectual dialogue, is the foundation of serious scholarship. Your choice of approach here is not only unbecoming but reveals a profound failure to meet that standard.

Czech version:
Rád bych napsal recenzi na základě recenze na pana Ozymandiase Anatolij Fomenko, matematik s vynikající kariérou, se pustil do historického revizionismu prostřednictvím své Nové chronologie, série prací, které aplikují matematické a statistické nástroje na studium historie. Ačkoli jsou jeho teorie velmi kontroverzní a mainstreamoví historici je často odmítají, Fomenkův přístup si zaslouží diferencovanější kritiku, než je hanlivé odmítnutí, jehož příkladem je vaše recenze. Vaše kritika Fomenkovy práce se opírá spíše o sarkasmus, selektivní argumentaci a zkreslování než o věcný přístup k jeho metodologii nebo myšlenkám. Fomenkovým hlavním přínosem je aplikace statistické analýzy a astronomie na historické záznamy, zejména při datování starověkých událostí. Používá přitom metodologie, jako např:
Astronomické datování: Pomocí historických popisů nebeských jevů, jako jsou zatmění Slunce a Měsíce, se Fomenko pokouší překalibrovat historické časové údaje.
Statistické rozpoznávání vzorů: Analyzuje vzory v textových datech, aby zjistil duplicity a nesrovnalosti v historických zprávách.
Kritické zkoumání primárních zdrojů: Fomenko zpochybňuje spolehlivost středověkých kronik a upozorňuje na možné zkreslení nebo anachronismus v jejich výkladech.
Ačkoli tyto přístupy nejsou prosty kritiky, představují vědecké úsilí o přehodnocení historických vyprávění. Vyžadují důsledné zkoumání a diskusi, nikoliv přímé odmítnutí.
Kritika uvedená ve vaší recenzi se Fomenkovými metodologiemi věcně nezabývá. Místo toho se do značné míry opírá o zesměšňování, zkreslování a útoky ad hominem. Mezi příklady těchto problémů patří:
Sarkastické odmítání: Vaše kritika důsledně zesměšňuje Fomenkovy myšlenky, aniž by se zabývala jejich základním zdůvodněním. Například spojování první křížové výpravy a trojské války je zesměšňováno selektivním srovnáváním, přičemž jsou ignorovány Fomenkovy širší argumenty o cyklické povaze historických vyprávění.
Zkreslení tvrzení: Text zjednodušuje Fomenkovu hypotézu o nesprávném datování klasických civilizací na argument slaměného panáka a rámuje ji jako absurdní konspiraci, místo aby se zabýval jeho důkazy nebo argumentací.
Nedostatek vědecké angažovanosti: Vaše kritika necituje ani podrobně neanalyzuje Fomenkovu skutečnou práci, místo toho shrnuje jeho tvrzení karikujícím způsobem, který podkopává seriózní diskusi.
Řešení konkrétních zkreslení - astronomické datování: Vaše kritika odmítá Fomenkovu astronomickou analýzu jako „podvod� a nevysvětluje, proč jsou jeho metody datování založené na zatmění neplatné nebo jak by mohly být vylepšeny. Takové odmítnutí ignoruje potenciál astronomie sloužit jako objektivní nástroj historické analýzy.
Statistická srovnání:
Fomenko je obviňován z „cherry-picking� dat, ale nedokládá toto tvrzení příklady toho, jak je jeho výběr dat chybný. Rovněž opomíjí širší důsledky rozpoznávání vzorců při odhalování nesrovnalostí v tradiční chronologii.
Jazyk a číslovky:
Fomenkova hypotéza o římských číslicích a jejich nesprávném výkladu je redukována na výsměch, aniž by se zabývala lingvistickými nebo paleografickými důkazy, které uvádí. Takový přístup se nezabývá složitostí středověkých rukopisných tradic.
Architektonická analýza:
Text kritizuje Fomenkovu reklasifikaci klasických staveb na středověké, ale nezabývá se archeologickými nebo hmotnými důkazy, které předkládá. Místo toho se spoléhá na rétorické otázky a nedůvěru, které nahrazují argumentaci.
Chyby v tónu a argumentaci textu
Vaše recenze používá jazyk, který je otevřeně nepřátelský a odmítavý, což podkopává její důvěryhodnost jako vědecké kritiky. Fráze jako „vyčůraný příklad� a sarkastická přirovnání snižují vážnost argumentu. Akademický diskurz vyžaduje uvážlivou kritiku založenou na důkazech, nikoliv emocionální invektivy nebo zesměšňování.
Proč si Fomenkova práce zaslouží kritický přístup?
Ačkoli se Fomenkovy závěry mohou zdát radikální, vyvolávají cenné otázky o spolehlivosti historických pramenů a konstrukci historických vyprávění. Jeho práce je výzvou pro vědce, aby:
přehodnotit předpoklady o historické kontinuitě a chronologii.
Prozkoumali interdisciplinární přístupy k historickému studiu, zahrnující matematiku, astronomii a textovou kritiku.
Uvědomit si možnost zkreslení a chyb při předávání historických záznamů.
Zabývat se Fomenkovou prací neznamená nutnost přijmout jeho závěry, ale vyžaduje, aby se jeho argumenty zabývaly s intelektuální přísností a respektem. Odmítání jeho výroků jako „nacionalistického konspiračního teoretika� bez zkoumání předností a nedostatků jeho metodologie nepřispívá k rozvoji diskurzu.
Můj závěr
Kniha Anatolije Fomenka Nová chronologie představuje nekonvenční, ale metodologicky zajímavý pokus o nové promýšlení historie. Kritika uvedená ve vaší recenzi se příliš nesnaží smysluplně vyvrátit jeho myšlenky, místo toho se spoléhá na sarkasmus a zkreslování. Produktivnější přístup by zahrnoval kritické zapojení do Fomenkovy metodologie, identifikaci jejích silných a slabých stránek a přispění k širšímu dialogu o historické chronologii.
PS: Přímá poznámka pro vás, Ozymandias.
Pokud se váš přístup ke kritice rozšiřuje na používání pohrdavého sarkasmu a přímého zesměšňování, zajímalo by mě, jak byste se choval k pracím Isaaca Newtona, který je autorem knihy The Chronology of Ancient Kingdoms Amended. Newton, osobnost s nedostižnými intelektuálními úspěchy, se rovněž zabýval přehodnocováním historických časových os a navrhoval revize na základě své interpretace astronomických a historických důkazů. Odvážil byste se na jeho práci použít stejný posměšný tón a výsměch jako na Fomenkovu?
Newtonův přínos vědě, matematice a dalším oborům je nepopiratelný, ale jeho výpady do historického revizionismu svědčí o stejném badatelském duchu, který byl hnacím motorem jeho dalších převratných objevů. Vaše kritika naznačuje neochotu - nebo neschopnost - zabývat se náročnými myšlenkami za jejich vlastních podmínek. To vyvolává otázku: máte dostatečnou vědeckou erudici, abyste mohl Newtona kritizovat se stejnou razancí, nebo je vaše opovržení vyhrazeno selektivně těm, které považujete za náchylnější k odmítnutí?
Ironie je zřejmá: tím, že zaujímáte tón tak vzdálený vědeckému diskurzu, podkopáváte svou vlastní důvěryhodnost mnohem více, než by kdy Fomenkovy myšlenky mohly podkopat obor historie. Konstruktivní kritika, založená na důkazech a respektu k intelektuálnímu dialogu, je základem seriózní vědy. Váš přístup zde je nejen nevhodný, ale prozrazuje i hluboké selhání v plnění tohoto standardu.]]> 3.70 History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology 1)
author: A.T. Fomenko
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.70
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/25
date added: 2025/02/12
shelves: 2024
review:
I would like to write a review based on review to Mr. Ozymandias, Anatoly Fomenko, a mathematician with a distinguished career, has ventured into historical revisionism through his New Chronology, a series of works that apply mathematical and statistical tools to the study of history. Although his theories are highly controversial and frequently dismissed by mainstream historians, Fomenko's approach deserves a more nuanced critique than the derogatory dismissal exemplified in the your review provided. Your criticisms leveled against Fomenko's work rely on sarcasm, selective argumentation, and misrepresentation rather than a substantive engagement with his methodologies or ideas. Fomenko’s primary contribution is the application of statistical analysis and astronomy to historical records, particularly in dating ancient events. He employs methodologies such as:
Astronomical Dating: Using historical descriptions of celestial phenomena, such as solar and lunar eclipses, Fomenko attempts to recalibrate historical timelines.
Statistical Pattern Recognition: He analyzes patterns in textual data to identify duplications and inconsistencies in historical accounts.
Critical Examination of Primary Sources: Fomenko questions the reliability of medieval chronicles and highlights potential biases or anachronisms in their interpretations.
While these approaches are not free from criticism, they represent a scientific effort to reassess historical narratives. They demand rigorous scrutiny and debate, not outright dismissal.
The critique presented in your review fails to substantively engage with Fomenko’s methodologies. Instead, it relies heavily on ridicule, misrepresentation, and ad hominem attacks. Examples of these issues include:
Sarcastic Dismissal: Your critique consistently mocks Fomenko’s ideas without addressing their underlying rationale. For example, the conflation of the First Crusade and the Trojan War is ridiculed through selective comparisons, ignoring Fomenko’s broader arguments about the cyclical nature of historical narratives.
Misrepresentation of Claims: The text simplifies Fomenko’s hypothesis about the misdating of classical civilizations to a strawman argument, framing it as an absurd conspiracy rather than engaging with his evidence or reasoning.
Lack of Scholarly Engagement: Your critique does not cite or analyze Fomenko’s actual work in detail, instead summarizing his claims in a caricatured manner that undermines serious discussion.
Addressing Specific Misrepresentations - Astronomical Dating: Your critique dismisses Fomenko’s astronomical analysis as “cheating,� failing to explain why his eclipse-based dating methods are invalid or how they might be improved. Such dismissals ignore the potential for astronomy to serve as an objective tool in historical analysis.
Statistical Comparisons:
You are accuses Fomenko of “cherry-picking� data but does not substantiate this claim with examples of how his data selection is flawed. It also neglects to consider the broader implications of pattern recognition in uncovering inconsistencies in traditional chronology.
Language and Numerals:
Fomenko’s hypothesis about Roman numerals and their misinterpretation is reduced to a mockery without addressing the linguistic or paleographical evidence he cites. Such an approach fails to engage with the complexity of medieval manuscript traditions.
Architectural Analysis:
The text criticizes Fomenko’s reclassification of classical buildings as medieval but does not address the archaeological or material evidence he presents. Instead, it relies on rhetorical questions and incredulity as substitutes for argumentation.
Flaws in the Text’s Tone and Argumentation
Your review employs language that is overtly hostile and dismissive, undermining its credibility as a scholarly critique. Phrases like "piss-poor example" and sarcastic comparisons detract from the seriousness of the argument. Academic discourse requires measured critique based on evidence, not emotional invective or ridicule.
Why Fomenko’s Work Warrants Critical Engagement
While Fomenko’s conclusions may appear radical, they provoke valuable questions about the reliability of historical sources and the construction of historical narratives. His work challenges scholars to:
Reevaluate assumptions about historical continuity and chronology.
Explore interdisciplinary approaches to historical study, incorporating mathematics, astronomy, and textual criticism.
Recognize the potential for bias and error in the transmission of historical records.
Engaging with Fomenko’s work does not necessitate accepting his conclusions, but it does require addressing his arguments with intellectual rigor and respect. Dismissing him as a “nationalist conspiracy theorist� without examining the merits and flaws of his methodology fails to advance the discourse.
My Conclusion
Anatoly Fomenko’s New Chronology represents an unconventional but methodologically intriguing attempt to rethink history. The critique presented in your review does little to refute his ideas meaningfully, instead relying on sarcasm and misrepresentation. A more productive approach would involve engaging critically with Fomenko’s methodologies, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and contributing to the broader dialogue about historical chronology.
PS: A Direct Note to You Ozymandias
If your approach to critique extends to the use of dismissive sarcasm and outright ridicule, I wonder how you would treat the works of Isaac Newton, who authored The Chronology of Ancient Kingdoms Amended. Newton, a figure of unparalleled intellectual achievement, also engaged in the reexamination of historical timelines, proposing revisions based on his interpretation of astronomical and historical evidence. Would you dare to apply the same derisive tone and mockery to his work as you have to Fomenko’s?
Newton's contributions to science, mathematics, and beyond are undeniable, but his forays into historical revisionism are a testament to the same spirit of inquiry that drove his other groundbreaking discoveries. Your critique here suggests a reluctance—or inability—to engage with challenging ideas on their own terms. This raises a question: do you possess the scholarly acumen to critique Newton with the same vigor, or is your disdain reserved selectively for those you perceive as more vulnerable to dismissal?
The irony is clear: by adopting a tone so far removed from scholarly discourse, you undermine your own credibility far more than Fomenko’s ideas could ever undermine the field of history. Constructive criticism, grounded in evidence and respect for intellectual dialogue, is the foundation of serious scholarship. Your choice of approach here is not only unbecoming but reveals a profound failure to meet that standard.

Czech version:
Rád bych napsal recenzi na základě recenze na pana Ozymandiase Anatolij Fomenko, matematik s vynikající kariérou, se pustil do historického revizionismu prostřednictvím své Nové chronologie, série prací, které aplikují matematické a statistické nástroje na studium historie. Ačkoli jsou jeho teorie velmi kontroverzní a mainstreamoví historici je často odmítají, Fomenkův přístup si zaslouží diferencovanější kritiku, než je hanlivé odmítnutí, jehož příkladem je vaše recenze. Vaše kritika Fomenkovy práce se opírá spíše o sarkasmus, selektivní argumentaci a zkreslování než o věcný přístup k jeho metodologii nebo myšlenkám. Fomenkovým hlavním přínosem je aplikace statistické analýzy a astronomie na historické záznamy, zejména při datování starověkých událostí. Používá přitom metodologie, jako např:
Astronomické datování: Pomocí historických popisů nebeských jevů, jako jsou zatmění Slunce a Měsíce, se Fomenko pokouší překalibrovat historické časové údaje.
Statistické rozpoznávání vzorů: Analyzuje vzory v textových datech, aby zjistil duplicity a nesrovnalosti v historických zprávách.
Kritické zkoumání primárních zdrojů: Fomenko zpochybňuje spolehlivost středověkých kronik a upozorňuje na možné zkreslení nebo anachronismus v jejich výkladech.
Ačkoli tyto přístupy nejsou prosty kritiky, představují vědecké úsilí o přehodnocení historických vyprávění. Vyžadují důsledné zkoumání a diskusi, nikoliv přímé odmítnutí.
Kritika uvedená ve vaší recenzi se Fomenkovými metodologiemi věcně nezabývá. Místo toho se do značné míry opírá o zesměšňování, zkreslování a útoky ad hominem. Mezi příklady těchto problémů patří:
Sarkastické odmítání: Vaše kritika důsledně zesměšňuje Fomenkovy myšlenky, aniž by se zabývala jejich základním zdůvodněním. Například spojování první křížové výpravy a trojské války je zesměšňováno selektivním srovnáváním, přičemž jsou ignorovány Fomenkovy širší argumenty o cyklické povaze historických vyprávění.
Zkreslení tvrzení: Text zjednodušuje Fomenkovu hypotézu o nesprávném datování klasických civilizací na argument slaměného panáka a rámuje ji jako absurdní konspiraci, místo aby se zabýval jeho důkazy nebo argumentací.
Nedostatek vědecké angažovanosti: Vaše kritika necituje ani podrobně neanalyzuje Fomenkovu skutečnou práci, místo toho shrnuje jeho tvrzení karikujícím způsobem, který podkopává seriózní diskusi.
Řešení konkrétních zkreslení - astronomické datování: Vaše kritika odmítá Fomenkovu astronomickou analýzu jako „podvod� a nevysvětluje, proč jsou jeho metody datování založené na zatmění neplatné nebo jak by mohly být vylepšeny. Takové odmítnutí ignoruje potenciál astronomie sloužit jako objektivní nástroj historické analýzy.
Statistická srovnání:
Fomenko je obviňován z „cherry-picking� dat, ale nedokládá toto tvrzení příklady toho, jak je jeho výběr dat chybný. Rovněž opomíjí širší důsledky rozpoznávání vzorců při odhalování nesrovnalostí v tradiční chronologii.
Jazyk a číslovky:
Fomenkova hypotéza o římských číslicích a jejich nesprávném výkladu je redukována na výsměch, aniž by se zabývala lingvistickými nebo paleografickými důkazy, které uvádí. Takový přístup se nezabývá složitostí středověkých rukopisných tradic.
Architektonická analýza:
Text kritizuje Fomenkovu reklasifikaci klasických staveb na středověké, ale nezabývá se archeologickými nebo hmotnými důkazy, které předkládá. Místo toho se spoléhá na rétorické otázky a nedůvěru, které nahrazují argumentaci.
Chyby v tónu a argumentaci textu
Vaše recenze používá jazyk, který je otevřeně nepřátelský a odmítavý, což podkopává její důvěryhodnost jako vědecké kritiky. Fráze jako „vyčůraný příklad� a sarkastická přirovnání snižují vážnost argumentu. Akademický diskurz vyžaduje uvážlivou kritiku založenou na důkazech, nikoliv emocionální invektivy nebo zesměšňování.
Proč si Fomenkova práce zaslouží kritický přístup?
Ačkoli se Fomenkovy závěry mohou zdát radikální, vyvolávají cenné otázky o spolehlivosti historických pramenů a konstrukci historických vyprávění. Jeho práce je výzvou pro vědce, aby:
přehodnotit předpoklady o historické kontinuitě a chronologii.
Prozkoumali interdisciplinární přístupy k historickému studiu, zahrnující matematiku, astronomii a textovou kritiku.
Uvědomit si možnost zkreslení a chyb při předávání historických záznamů.
Zabývat se Fomenkovou prací neznamená nutnost přijmout jeho závěry, ale vyžaduje, aby se jeho argumenty zabývaly s intelektuální přísností a respektem. Odmítání jeho výroků jako „nacionalistického konspiračního teoretika� bez zkoumání předností a nedostatků jeho metodologie nepřispívá k rozvoji diskurzu.
Můj závěr
Kniha Anatolije Fomenka Nová chronologie představuje nekonvenční, ale metodologicky zajímavý pokus o nové promýšlení historie. Kritika uvedená ve vaší recenzi se příliš nesnaží smysluplně vyvrátit jeho myšlenky, místo toho se spoléhá na sarkasmus a zkreslování. Produktivnější přístup by zahrnoval kritické zapojení do Fomenkovy metodologie, identifikaci jejích silných a slabých stránek a přispění k širšímu dialogu o historické chronologii.
PS: Přímá poznámka pro vás, Ozymandias.
Pokud se váš přístup ke kritice rozšiřuje na používání pohrdavého sarkasmu a přímého zesměšňování, zajímalo by mě, jak byste se choval k pracím Isaaca Newtona, který je autorem knihy The Chronology of Ancient Kingdoms Amended. Newton, osobnost s nedostižnými intelektuálními úspěchy, se rovněž zabýval přehodnocováním historických časových os a navrhoval revize na základě své interpretace astronomických a historických důkazů. Odvážil byste se na jeho práci použít stejný posměšný tón a výsměch jako na Fomenkovu?
Newtonův přínos vědě, matematice a dalším oborům je nepopiratelný, ale jeho výpady do historického revizionismu svědčí o stejném badatelském duchu, který byl hnacím motorem jeho dalších převratných objevů. Vaše kritika naznačuje neochotu - nebo neschopnost - zabývat se náročnými myšlenkami za jejich vlastních podmínek. To vyvolává otázku: máte dostatečnou vědeckou erudici, abyste mohl Newtona kritizovat se stejnou razancí, nebo je vaše opovržení vyhrazeno selektivně těm, které považujete za náchylnější k odmítnutí?
Ironie je zřejmá: tím, že zaujímáte tón tak vzdálený vědeckému diskurzu, podkopáváte svou vlastní důvěryhodnost mnohem více, než by kdy Fomenkovy myšlenky mohly podkopat obor historie. Konstruktivní kritika, založená na důkazech a respektu k intelektuálnímu dialogu, je základem seriózní vědy. Váš přístup zde je nejen nevhodný, ale prozrazuje i hluboké selhání v plnění tohoto standardu.
]]> Evolution of the Solar System 2039618 616 Hannes Alfvén 1410218848 Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2025 5.00 1976 Evolution of the Solar System
author: Hannes Alfvén
name: Zdenek
average rating: 5.00
book published: 1976
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/10
shelves: currently-reading, 2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Under the Sign of the Scorpion]]> 482322 447 Jüri Lina 9197289779 Zdenek 0 to-read 4.36 1994 Under the Sign of the Scorpion
author: Jüri Lina
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1994
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Secret Societies: Inside the Freemasons, the Yakuza, Skull and Bones, and the World's Most Notorious Secret Organizations]]> 18897270 359 John Lawrence Reynolds 162872160X Zdenek 0 antiq 3.55 2006 Secret Societies: Inside the Freemasons, the Yakuza, Skull and Bones, and the World's Most Notorious Secret Organizations
author: John Lawrence Reynolds
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2006
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/09
shelves: antiq
review:

]]> Christ 139728253 816 N. A. Morozov Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2025 0.0 Christ
author: N. A. Morozov
name: Zdenek
average rating: 0.0
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rating: 0
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date added: 2025/01/08
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]]> We 76171 The exhilarating dystopian novel that inspired George Orwell's 1984 and foreshadowed the worst excesses of Soviet Russia

Yevgeny Zamyatin's We is a powerfully inventive vision that has influenced writers from George Orwell to Ayn Rand. In a glass-enclosed city of absolute straight lines, ruled over by the all-powerful 'Benefactor', the citizens of the totalitarian society of OneState live out lives devoid of passion and creativity - until D-503, a mathematician who dreams in numbers, makes a discovery: he has an individual soul. Set in the twenty-sixth century AD, We is the classic dystopian novel and was the forerunner of works such as George Orwell's 1984 and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World. It was suppressed for many years in Russia and remains a resounding cry for individual freedom, yet is also a powerful, exciting and vivid work of science fiction. Clarence Brown's brilliant translation is based on the corrected text of the novel, first published in Russia in 1988 after more than sixty years' suppression.]]> 256 Yevgeny Zamyatin 0140185852 Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2025 3.91 1924 We
author: Yevgeny Zamyatin
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.91
book published: 1924
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: currently-reading, 2025
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]]> <![CDATA[В поисках вымышленного царства]]> 84485145 0 Лев Николаевич Гумилев 5457073718 Zdenek 5
Основная характеристика произведения:
� Книга не является традиционной научной монографией или популярно-научным трудом; автор сам называет её «средневековым научным трактатом», что подчёркивает её уникальную форму и подход.
� Гумилёв сочетает методы различных научных дисциплин (история, этнография, климатология) и стремится к синтезу данных для создания целостного представления об изучаемых эпохах.

Основная тема:
� Книга сосредоточена на легенде о «царстве пресвитера Иоанна», которую автор использует как рамку для анализа истории кочевых народов Средней Азии в период с VIII по XIII века.
� В центре внимания � процессы, приведшие к возникновению Монгольской империи и приходу Чингисхана, а также исторические мифы и неточности, связанные с этим периодом.

Методология и подход:
� Гумилёв отвергает узкоспециализированный исторический подход, который, по его мнению, ведёт к фрагментации знаний и игнорированию более широких контекстов.
� Автор применяет «стереоскопический метод», включающий анализ на разных уровнях: от детального изучения отдельных событий до широких географических и исторических взаимосвязей.

Исторические и климатические факторы:
� Важную роль в книге играют климатические изменения в истории Средней Азии, особенно циклы засух и увлажнения, которые существенно влияли на кочевые общества.
� Автор показывает, как экологические факторы формировали политические и культурные процессы в Великой степи.
Критика источников и подход к историческим легендам:
� Гумилёв подвергает источники строгой критике и указывает на их ненадёжность, особенно в отношении средневековых европейских представлений о кочевых народах и их «дикости».
� Он анализирует, как возникали мифы, такие как легенда о пресвитере Иоанне, и обращает внимание на их политическую и идеологическую функцию.
Значение книги:
� Книга важна не только для историков, но и для тех, кто интересуется взаимодействием культур и народов, экологическими влияниями на историю и формированием исторического сознания.
� Работа предлагает новый взгляд на историю Средней Азии и роль кочевых народов как создателей уникальной культуры, а не только разрушительных сил.
Ключевые выводы:
� Кочевые народы Средней Азии создали самобытную культурную модель, и их историю нельзя свести к «варварским нашествиям».
� Географические и климатические изменения играли ключевую роль в этногенетических процессах и в создании мощных государственных образований, включая Монгольскую империю.
Значение для современного читателя:
� Книга расширяет представления о роли кочевых народов в истории и побуждает к критическому подходу к источникам и историческим мифам.
� Она способствует пониманию динамики взаимодействия культур и цивилизаций, что актуально и в современном мире.

Эти заметки подчёркивают уникальный характер работы Гумилёва, которая сочетает междисциплинарный подход с анализом легенд и мифов, тем самым способствуя более глубокому пониманию истории.
]]> 5.00 В поисках вымышленного царства
author: Лев Николаевич Гумилев
name: Zdenek
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/01
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: 2025, ancient-history, civilizations
review:
Заметки к содержанию книги "В поисках вымышленного царства" Льва Николаевича Гумилёва:

Основная характеристика произведения:
� Книга не является традиционной научной монографией или популярно-научным трудом; автор сам называет её «средневековым научным трактатом», что подчёркивает её уникальную форму и подход.
� Гумилёв сочетает методы различных научных дисциплин (история, этнография, климатология) и стремится к синтезу данных для создания целостного представления об изучаемых эпохах.

Основная тема:
� Книга сосредоточена на легенде о «царстве пресвитера Иоанна», которую автор использует как рамку для анализа истории кочевых народов Средней Азии в период с VIII по XIII века.
� В центре внимания � процессы, приведшие к возникновению Монгольской империи и приходу Чингисхана, а также исторические мифы и неточности, связанные с этим периодом.

Методология и подход:
� Гумилёв отвергает узкоспециализированный исторический подход, который, по его мнению, ведёт к фрагментации знаний и игнорированию более широких контекстов.
� Автор применяет «стереоскопический метод», включающий анализ на разных уровнях: от детального изучения отдельных событий до широких географических и исторических взаимосвязей.

Исторические и климатические факторы:
� Важную роль в книге играют климатические изменения в истории Средней Азии, особенно циклы засух и увлажнения, которые существенно влияли на кочевые общества.
� Автор показывает, как экологические факторы формировали политические и культурные процессы в Великой степи.
Критика источников и подход к историческим легендам:
� Гумилёв подвергает источники строгой критике и указывает на их ненадёжность, особенно в отношении средневековых европейских представлений о кочевых народах и их «дикости».
� Он анализирует, как возникали мифы, такие как легенда о пресвитере Иоанне, и обращает внимание на их политическую и идеологическую функцию.
Значение книги:
� Книга важна не только для историков, но и для тех, кто интересуется взаимодействием культур и народов, экологическими влияниями на историю и формированием исторического сознания.
� Работа предлагает новый взгляд на историю Средней Азии и роль кочевых народов как создателей уникальной культуры, а не только разрушительных сил.
Ключевые выводы:
� Кочевые народы Средней Азии создали самобытную культурную модель, и их историю нельзя свести к «варварским нашествиям».
� Географические и климатические изменения играли ключевую роль в этногенетических процессах и в создании мощных государственных образований, включая Монгольскую империю.
Значение для современного читателя:
� Книга расширяет представления о роли кочевых народов в истории и побуждает к критическому подходу к источникам и историческим мифам.
� Она способствует пониманию динамики взаимодействия культур и цивилизаций, что актуально и в современном мире.

Эти заметки подчёркивают уникальный характер работы Гумилёва, которая сочетает междисциплинарный подход с анализом легенд и мифов, тем самым способствуя более глубокому пониманию истории.

]]> <![CDATA[Черная легенда. Друзья и недруги Великой степи (Russian Edition)]]> 84484559 0 Лев Николаевич Гумилев 545707370X Zdenek 5
Основная тема книги:

Главная тема книги � разоблачение и деконструкция «черной легенды», то есть совокупности стереотипов и негативных представлений о народах Великой степи (например, монголах, татарах) как о варварах и разрушительных силах. Гумилёв сосредотачивается на том, как эти представления зародились в Западной Европе, особенно в Средние века, и как они повлияли на историческое сознание и интерпретацию событий.

Содержание и ключевые моменты:
Происхождение «черной легенды»:

Гумилёв объясняет, что этот миф возник в результате столкновения Западной Европы с кочевниками во время крестовых походов и монгольских нашествий в XIII веке.
Европейская элита создала негативный образ монголов и кочевых народов, чтобы оправдать собственные неудачи и объединить Европу против «внешнего врага».

Исторические предрассудки:

Автор подчёркивает, что негативные представления о монголах и татарах распространялись как инструмент пропаганды и были связаны с более широкими предрассудками против восточных народов.
Затрагивается также «татаро-монгольское иго», которое в русской историографии часто трактуется искажённо.

Анализ этнических процессов:

Гумилёв представляет свою пассионарную теорию этногенеза, объясняющую возникновение, расцвет и упадок этнических групп как процессы биологической и социальной энергии.
Этот подход позволяет по-новому взглянуть на отношения между народами Великой степи и их соседями.

Критика евроцентризма:

Гумилёв критикует евроцентризм и идею культурного превосходства западной цивилизации. Он подчёркивает, что многие негативные представления о Востоке основаны на незнании и предрассудках.
Исторические примеры:

В книге проводится детальный анализ конкретных исторических событий, таких как битва при Айн-Джалуте, где монголы потерпели поражение, и влияние этой битвы на отношения между Западом и Востоком.
Последствия «черной легенды»:

По мнению автора, эта легенда создала долгосрочные барьеры между Востоком и Западом, повлияв на геополитику и культурные отношения.

Стиль и значение:

Гумилёв сочетает исторический и философский подход со своей собственной теорией, что придаёт книге уникальный характер. Его анализ часто драматичен, что делает книгу увлекательной для чтения.
Произведение важно не только для историков, но и для широкой аудитории, интересующейся вопросами этнических конфликтов, культурных стереотипов и историографии.

Книга «Черная легенда» является ключевым трудом для понимания того, как исторические предрассудки формируют отношения между народами и влияют на национальные и культурные идентичности.

«Черная легенда» Льва Гумилёва даёт обоснование тому, что западная историография, вместо объективного анализа, служила инструментом идеологического доминирования. Гумилёв показывает, как Россия подвергалась культурной экспансии, теряя свою идентичность и евразийские корни.

Для тех, кто знаком с альтернативными версиями истории России и Тартарии, книга Гумилёва становится не только научным трудом, но и подтверждением того, что западное влияние во многом стремилось ослабить Россию и подчинить её своим интересам. Гумилёв призывает восстановить историческую справедливость, возвращая России её подлинное место как уникальной цивилизации между Востоком и Западом.
]]> 5.00 Черная легенда. Друзья и недруги Великой степи (Russian Edition)
author: Лев Николаевич Гумилев
name: Zdenek
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/01
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: 2025, ancient-history, civilizations
review:
Книга «Черная легенда» Льва Николаевича Гумилёва посвящена анализу исторических мифов и предубеждений, в частности, так называемой «черной легенды», связанной с негативным образом кочевых народов и их роли в истории Европы и Азии. Автор исследует причины, происхождение и последствия этих предрассудков для исторического дискурса и восприятия этнических групп.

Основная тема книги:

Главная тема книги � разоблачение и деконструкция «черной легенды», то есть совокупности стереотипов и негативных представлений о народах Великой степи (например, монголах, татарах) как о варварах и разрушительных силах. Гумилёв сосредотачивается на том, как эти представления зародились в Западной Европе, особенно в Средние века, и как они повлияли на историческое сознание и интерпретацию событий.

Содержание и ключевые моменты:
Происхождение «черной легенды»:

Гумилёв объясняет, что этот миф возник в результате столкновения Западной Европы с кочевниками во время крестовых походов и монгольских нашествий в XIII веке.
Европейская элита создала негативный образ монголов и кочевых народов, чтобы оправдать собственные неудачи и объединить Европу против «внешнего врага».

Исторические предрассудки:

Автор подчёркивает, что негативные представления о монголах и татарах распространялись как инструмент пропаганды и были связаны с более широкими предрассудками против восточных народов.
Затрагивается также «татаро-монгольское иго», которое в русской историографии часто трактуется искажённо.

Анализ этнических процессов:

Гумилёв представляет свою пассионарную теорию этногенеза, объясняющую возникновение, расцвет и упадок этнических групп как процессы биологической и социальной энергии.
Этот подход позволяет по-новому взглянуть на отношения между народами Великой степи и их соседями.

Критика евроцентризма:

Гумилёв критикует евроцентризм и идею культурного превосходства западной цивилизации. Он подчёркивает, что многие негативные представления о Востоке основаны на незнании и предрассудках.
Исторические примеры:

В книге проводится детальный анализ конкретных исторических событий, таких как битва при Айн-Джалуте, где монголы потерпели поражение, и влияние этой битвы на отношения между Западом и Востоком.
Последствия «черной легенды»:

По мнению автора, эта легенда создала долгосрочные барьеры между Востоком и Западом, повлияв на геополитику и культурные отношения.

Стиль и значение:

Гумилёв сочетает исторический и философский подход со своей собственной теорией, что придаёт книге уникальный характер. Его анализ часто драматичен, что делает книгу увлекательной для чтения.
Произведение важно не только для историков, но и для широкой аудитории, интересующейся вопросами этнических конфликтов, культурных стереотипов и историографии.

Книга «Черная легенда» является ключевым трудом для понимания того, как исторические предрассудки формируют отношения между народами и влияют на национальные и культурные идентичности.

«Черная легенда» Льва Гумилёва даёт обоснование тому, что западная историография, вместо объективного анализа, служила инструментом идеологического доминирования. Гумилёв показывает, как Россия подвергалась культурной экспансии, теряя свою идентичность и евразийские корни.

Для тех, кто знаком с альтернативными версиями истории России и Тартарии, книга Гумилёва становится не только научным трудом, но и подтверждением того, что западное влияние во многом стремилось ослабить Россию и подчинить её своим интересам. Гумилёв призывает восстановить историческую справедливость, возвращая России её подлинное место как уникальной цивилизации между Востоком и Западом.

]]> <![CDATA[Astronomical Code of The Rigveda]]> 4824073 272 Subhash Kak 8121509866 Zdenek 4 2025
Key Themes and Concepts of the Book

Vedic Astronomy and Geometry
Kak highlights that rituals described in Vedic texts have an underlying astronomical basis. The fire altars (agnicayana), as detailed in texts like the Shatapatha Brahmana, are designed to mirror celestial movements. The number of bricks and geometric patterns used in altar construction align with key astronomical cycles, such as the solar year, lunar phases, and the synchronization of lunar and solar calendars. This intricate system demonstrates the advanced understanding of geometry and mathematics in ancient India.

Numerology and the Structure of the Rgveda
The book reveals that the organization of the Rgveda itself encodes numerical and symbolic patterns. The total number of syllables (432,000) corresponds to the duration of a mahāyuga (a Vedic time cycle). Kak argues that this system is deliberate, reflecting a profound understanding of time and the cosmos.

Chronology of the Vedic Texts
One of the book's central arguments is that the Vedic texts are much older than traditionally believed. Astronomical references to equinoxes, solstices, and the Sarasvati River suggest that many hymns were composed as early as the third millennium BCE. Kak challenges the Aryan invasion theory, emphasizing cultural continuity between the Harappan civilization and the Vedic tradition.

Atharvaveda and Its Practical Applications
In addition to the Rgveda, the author examines the Atharvaveda, which focuses on the practical applications of Vedic knowledge, such as healing, protection, and agriculture. The Atharvaveda shares similar astronomical and numerical patterns with the Rgveda, highlighting a unified tradition of knowledge.

Cosmology of the Puranas
The book delves into later texts, such as the Puranas, which present a complex cosmology based on cycles of time (kalpas and yugas), space, and creation. These texts expand on the Vedic worldview, offering detailed models of the universe that include celestial bodies, earthly continents, and multiple levels of existence.

Comparison with Babylonian Astronomy
Kak compares Vedic and Babylonian astronomy, identifying similarities in their understanding of lunar and solar cycles and calendar synchronization. While Babylonian traditions focused on practical predictions, Vedic astronomy emphasized the integration of rituals with cosmic order.

Influence of Vedic Ideas on the World
The author demonstrates how Vedic concepts, such as cyclic time, karma, and reincarnation, influenced other philosophical systems, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Greek philosophy. Vedic mathematical innovations, such as the concept of zero and the decimal system, spread to the Arab world and later to Europe.

Philosophical and Spiritual Dimensions
The book emphasizes that Vedic texts are not solely scientific or astronomical documents but deeply spiritual works that intertwine cosmology with human existence. The idea that humanity is a microcosm of the universe is central to Vedic philosophy. Rituals, hymns, and geometric models serve as tools for understanding universal harmony and achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Personal Reflections and Review
Subhash Kak’s The Astronomical Code of the Rgveda is a fascinating exploration of the scientific and spiritual depths of Vedic literature. As a reader, I was struck by the meticulous detail in the text and the profound connections Kak draws between ancient rituals and modern scientific principles. His arguments challenge conventional perspectives on history and invite us to reconsider the intellectual sophistication of ancient Indian culture.

What stands out most is Kak’s ability to blend hard science with philosophy, demonstrating that the two are not mutually exclusive but deeply interconnected in the Vedic worldview. The parallels he draws between Vedic and Babylonian astronomy are particularly enlightening, offering a global context for ancient scientific achievements.

However, the book can be dense at times, particularly for readers without a background in Vedic literature or astronomy. The author assumes a degree of familiarity with these topics, which might make some sections challenging for newcomers. Nevertheless, the effort to engage with the text is richly rewarding.

Another aspect I appreciated was the emphasis on the spiritual significance of Vedic knowledge. Kak does not reduce the Rgveda to a purely scientific or historical artifact but respects its multidimensional nature. This approach makes the book not just an academic study but a profound meditation on the relationship between humanity and the cosmos.

Conclusion
The Astronomical Code of the Rgveda is a remarkable contribution to our understanding of ancient Indian culture and its global impact. By uncovering the scientific, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions of the Vedic tradition, Subhash Kak invites us to view the Rgveda as a timeless repository of knowledge that bridges the gap between past and present. For anyone interested in the intersections of science, history, and spirituality, this book is a must-read.]]> 4.42 2011 Astronomical Code of The Rigveda
author: Subhash Kak
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: 2025
review:
Subhash Kak’s The Astronomical Code of the Rgveda offers a groundbreaking perspective on ancient Vedic texts, particularly the Rgveda, through the lens of astronomy, mathematics, and cosmology. The author argues that these texts are not merely collections of hymns or ritual manuals but contain profound scientific and philosophical insights that were far ahead of their time. Combining textual analysis, archaeological findings, and historical records, the book explores the intellectual sophistication of Vedic culture.

Key Themes and Concepts of the Book

Vedic Astronomy and Geometry
Kak highlights that rituals described in Vedic texts have an underlying astronomical basis. The fire altars (agnicayana), as detailed in texts like the Shatapatha Brahmana, are designed to mirror celestial movements. The number of bricks and geometric patterns used in altar construction align with key astronomical cycles, such as the solar year, lunar phases, and the synchronization of lunar and solar calendars. This intricate system demonstrates the advanced understanding of geometry and mathematics in ancient India.

Numerology and the Structure of the Rgveda
The book reveals that the organization of the Rgveda itself encodes numerical and symbolic patterns. The total number of syllables (432,000) corresponds to the duration of a mahāyuga (a Vedic time cycle). Kak argues that this system is deliberate, reflecting a profound understanding of time and the cosmos.

Chronology of the Vedic Texts
One of the book's central arguments is that the Vedic texts are much older than traditionally believed. Astronomical references to equinoxes, solstices, and the Sarasvati River suggest that many hymns were composed as early as the third millennium BCE. Kak challenges the Aryan invasion theory, emphasizing cultural continuity between the Harappan civilization and the Vedic tradition.

Atharvaveda and Its Practical Applications
In addition to the Rgveda, the author examines the Atharvaveda, which focuses on the practical applications of Vedic knowledge, such as healing, protection, and agriculture. The Atharvaveda shares similar astronomical and numerical patterns with the Rgveda, highlighting a unified tradition of knowledge.

Cosmology of the Puranas
The book delves into later texts, such as the Puranas, which present a complex cosmology based on cycles of time (kalpas and yugas), space, and creation. These texts expand on the Vedic worldview, offering detailed models of the universe that include celestial bodies, earthly continents, and multiple levels of existence.

Comparison with Babylonian Astronomy
Kak compares Vedic and Babylonian astronomy, identifying similarities in their understanding of lunar and solar cycles and calendar synchronization. While Babylonian traditions focused on practical predictions, Vedic astronomy emphasized the integration of rituals with cosmic order.

Influence of Vedic Ideas on the World
The author demonstrates how Vedic concepts, such as cyclic time, karma, and reincarnation, influenced other philosophical systems, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Greek philosophy. Vedic mathematical innovations, such as the concept of zero and the decimal system, spread to the Arab world and later to Europe.

Philosophical and Spiritual Dimensions
The book emphasizes that Vedic texts are not solely scientific or astronomical documents but deeply spiritual works that intertwine cosmology with human existence. The idea that humanity is a microcosm of the universe is central to Vedic philosophy. Rituals, hymns, and geometric models serve as tools for understanding universal harmony and achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Personal Reflections and Review
Subhash Kak’s The Astronomical Code of the Rgveda is a fascinating exploration of the scientific and spiritual depths of Vedic literature. As a reader, I was struck by the meticulous detail in the text and the profound connections Kak draws between ancient rituals and modern scientific principles. His arguments challenge conventional perspectives on history and invite us to reconsider the intellectual sophistication of ancient Indian culture.

What stands out most is Kak’s ability to blend hard science with philosophy, demonstrating that the two are not mutually exclusive but deeply interconnected in the Vedic worldview. The parallels he draws between Vedic and Babylonian astronomy are particularly enlightening, offering a global context for ancient scientific achievements.

However, the book can be dense at times, particularly for readers without a background in Vedic literature or astronomy. The author assumes a degree of familiarity with these topics, which might make some sections challenging for newcomers. Nevertheless, the effort to engage with the text is richly rewarding.

Another aspect I appreciated was the emphasis on the spiritual significance of Vedic knowledge. Kak does not reduce the Rgveda to a purely scientific or historical artifact but respects its multidimensional nature. This approach makes the book not just an academic study but a profound meditation on the relationship between humanity and the cosmos.

Conclusion
The Astronomical Code of the Rgveda is a remarkable contribution to our understanding of ancient Indian culture and its global impact. By uncovering the scientific, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions of the Vedic tradition, Subhash Kak invites us to view the Rgveda as a timeless repository of knowledge that bridges the gap between past and present. For anyone interested in the intersections of science, history, and spirituality, this book is a must-read.
]]> <![CDATA[Innovation Lab Excellence: Digital Transformation from Within]]> 44543549
This book goes behind the scenes of working innovation labs to distill a rigorous set of best practices. Apply these to unleash the innovation that will give your enterprise a digital competitive advantage.

Written by an award-winning expert and global manager of multiple labs with more than 20 years of experience, this book � How innovation labs went from exotic add-ons to must-haves, and the unique challenges they face;� How a detailed array of best practices will help your lab excel and be better focused to serve your business interests;� How a human-centric focus is the key to adopting new technology, and to gaining acceptance of both innovators and innovation;� Where you need to rethink what you know about adopting new technology.This guide pulls no punches.

It offers expert analysis of the most typical problems—and their solutions—so that your innovation can transcend the hype and achieve tangible results.

Innovation Lab Excellence is a must-read if you manage an innovation lab, work in one, or are a business manager engaged with innovation.

Richard Turrin is an independent Fintech and AI consultant, helping clients navigate the unchartered waters associated with the latest cognitive technologies. He previously headed fintech for IBM Cognitive Studios Singapore (IBM’s Innovation Lab) and worked for IBM China where he led his team to win the prestigious “Risk Technology Product of the Year� award for his unique hybrid-cloud solution to risk analytics.]]> 190 Richard Turrin 1949642089 Zdenek 4 iot 4.12 Innovation Lab Excellence: Digital Transformation from Within
author: Richard Turrin
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/29
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: iot
review:

]]> <![CDATA[IT Strategy: A 3-Dimensional Framework to Plan Your Digital Transformation and Deliver Value to Your Enterprise]]> 49599142 Kirkus Reviews writes "Maholic’s contribution is a standout in a crowded field and should become the authoritative source on the subject. A consistently clear and notably thorough guide to IT strategy that should be on every chief information officer’s desk."

Where do you begin to create a transformative IT Strategy? Right here.

This book steps you through all the necessary considerations for evaluating your current state and planning for a high-performing future state. IT STRATEGY features interviews with over one dozen CIOs and IT executives. It walks readers through the process from a blank whiteboard to a comprehensive IT Strategy.

Created to be a broad-reaching reference manual, IT STRATEGY introduces a thought-provoking 3-D framework to empower any leader to develop a sound IT Strategy. The author presents technical and non-technical topics to enable readers to develop a roadmap to their desired future state. A spotlight is focused on such core topics as data, technology, security, customer experience, IT governance, organizational change management, culture and talent management. To ensure executives buy into your strategy, the book repeatedly reminds readers to align IT strategic planning to foundational business strategic planning and central business key performance measures. Guidelines for creating a compelling, winning executive presentation round out the book's completeness.

Jim Maholic is an award-winning author with over 25 years as an IT strategist. He has consulted with many of the largest and most prestigious companies in North and South America. His career includes two stints as a CIO and he has held leadership positions with global consulting and technology firms.]]> 608 Jim Maholic Zdenek 5 iot 4.73 IT Strategy: A 3-Dimensional Framework to Plan Your Digital Transformation and Deliver Value to Your Enterprise
author: Jim Maholic
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.73
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/30
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: iot
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Crypt 33: The Saga of Marilyn Monroe - The Final Word]]> 302925 310 Adela Gregory 1559721251 Zdenek 5
What intrigued me most was the detailed account of Marilyn’s interaction with Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev during his visit to Hollywood. Despite initial hesitation, Marilyn attended the event, manipulated by Frank Sinatra, and dined at Khrushchev's table in a tight, revealing gown, as requested by the studio. The narrative captures the tension of the Cold War and Marilyn’s significant yet reluctant role as an American cultural icon. Her reflections on Khrushchev as a "fat, ugly little man" juxtaposed with her pride in representing her country make for a fascinating read.

This book is not just an investigation into Marilyn’s death but also a lens into the political and cultural dynamics of her era, leaving readers questioning how much of the truth remains hidden.

Here is the text from the back cover.

"The Shocking Truth Behind Marilyn’s Death—Revealed at Last
She was an icon, a sex symbol, and a living legend. But when she was
found naked and dead on the morning of August 5, 1962, Marilyn
Monroe became the subject of a mystery that has fascinated and
perplexed the world for generations. Was her death an accident?
Suicide? Or murder? In this riveting account, private investigators
Gregory and Speriglio uncover startling evidence that may solve the
case once and for all. Crypt 33 reveals:
� The truth about Marilyn’s affairs with JFK and Robert Kennedy
� The top-level government secrets that endangered Marilyn’s life
� How Marilyn pulled strings as a political power player
� The identity of the friend who knowingly opened the door to
Marilyn’s killers
� The startling connection between JFK’s father and mobster Sam
Giancana
� Evidence of the deadly drugs and how they were administered to
Marilyn
� The rumors of an assassination plot masterminded by the Cosa
Nostra and and high-ranked government officials
� What happened to the audio tape recording of Marilyn’s murder
� The tangled web of wiretaps in Marilyn’s home
� Why Joe DiMaggio sent flowers to Marilyn’s grave for years
Half a century after her death, Marilyn Monroe still lives in our
hearts. Now, at last, the truth can be told.
“Spiriglio and Gregory are fluent, convincing writers.�
—Publishers Weekly]]> 3.34 1993 Crypt 33: The Saga of Marilyn Monroe - The Final Word
author: Adela Gregory
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.34
book published: 1993
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/29
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves:
review:
Crypt 33 by Adela Gregory and Milo A. Speriglio offers a compelling exploration of the life and mysterious death of Marilyn Monroe. The book examines whether her demise was an accident, suicide, or murder, uncovering provocative evidence that sheds light on her connections to powerful figures like JFK and Robert Kennedy. The authors delve into startling government secrets, rumors of mafia involvement, and wiretaps in Marilyn’s home, presenting a web of intrigue that points to a cover-up surrounding her death.

What intrigued me most was the detailed account of Marilyn’s interaction with Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev during his visit to Hollywood. Despite initial hesitation, Marilyn attended the event, manipulated by Frank Sinatra, and dined at Khrushchev's table in a tight, revealing gown, as requested by the studio. The narrative captures the tension of the Cold War and Marilyn’s significant yet reluctant role as an American cultural icon. Her reflections on Khrushchev as a "fat, ugly little man" juxtaposed with her pride in representing her country make for a fascinating read.

This book is not just an investigation into Marilyn’s death but also a lens into the political and cultural dynamics of her era, leaving readers questioning how much of the truth remains hidden.

Here is the text from the back cover.

"The Shocking Truth Behind Marilyn’s Death—Revealed at Last
She was an icon, a sex symbol, and a living legend. But when she was
found naked and dead on the morning of August 5, 1962, Marilyn
Monroe became the subject of a mystery that has fascinated and
perplexed the world for generations. Was her death an accident?
Suicide? Or murder? In this riveting account, private investigators
Gregory and Speriglio uncover startling evidence that may solve the
case once and for all. Crypt 33 reveals:
� The truth about Marilyn’s affairs with JFK and Robert Kennedy
� The top-level government secrets that endangered Marilyn’s life
� How Marilyn pulled strings as a political power player
� The identity of the friend who knowingly opened the door to
Marilyn’s killers
� The startling connection between JFK’s father and mobster Sam
Giancana
� Evidence of the deadly drugs and how they were administered to
Marilyn
� The rumors of an assassination plot masterminded by the Cosa
Nostra and and high-ranked government officials
� What happened to the audio tape recording of Marilyn’s murder
� The tangled web of wiretaps in Marilyn’s home
� Why Joe DiMaggio sent flowers to Marilyn’s grave for years
Half a century after her death, Marilyn Monroe still lives in our
hearts. Now, at last, the truth can be told.
“Spiriglio and Gregory are fluent, convincing writers.�
—Publishers Weekly
]]> <![CDATA[The Marilyn Conspiracy by Milo Speriglio (1986-08-08)]]> 127719208 0 Milo A. Speriglio Zdenek 4
As I flipped through the pages, I couldn’t help but feel that the author has a genuine passion for detailed investigation. It is fascinating to observe how interviews with alleged witnesses bring new perspectives on the events of that time. This book felt like a warning about how easily public opinion can be manipulated, especially when it comes to protecting powerful individuals.]]> 4.00 1986 The Marilyn Conspiracy by Milo Speriglio (1986-08-08)
author: Milo A. Speriglio
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1986
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/25
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves:
review:
While reading The Marilyn Conspiracy, I noticed how the author takes his theory even further compared to his first book. What truly caught my attention was his emphasis on the media and their role in manipulating the public. From the book, I gathered that, according to Speriglio, there was an extensive network aimed at covering up the truth about Marilyn's death.

As I flipped through the pages, I couldn’t help but feel that the author has a genuine passion for detailed investigation. It is fascinating to observe how interviews with alleged witnesses bring new perspectives on the events of that time. This book felt like a warning about how easily public opinion can be manipulated, especially when it comes to protecting powerful individuals.
]]> <![CDATA[Marilyn Monroe: Murder Cover-Up]]> 773034 269 Milo A. Speriglio 0930990773 Zdenek 4
The book suggests that Speriglio believed Marilyn was murdered due to her connections with the Kennedy brothers and other influential men. It is fascinating to see how the author argues that the actress might have known sensitive information that could have threatened powerful elites. The book compels you to think about how the truth can be deliberately hidden.]]> 3.04 1982 Marilyn Monroe: Murder Cover-Up
author: Milo A. Speriglio
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.04
book published: 1982
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/16
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves:
review:
When I read Marilyn Monroe: Murder Cover-Up, I was surprised at how meticulously author Milo A. Speriglio explored the circumstances surrounding the actress's death. The book felt like a thrilling detective investigation, where each clue reveals additional layers of mystery. I was particularly struck by how the author pointed out contradictions in the official reports � from inconsistencies in the autopsy to uncertainties about the time the body was discovered.

The book suggests that Speriglio believed Marilyn was murdered due to her connections with the Kennedy brothers and other influential men. It is fascinating to see how the author argues that the actress might have known sensitive information that could have threatened powerful elites. The book compels you to think about how the truth can be deliberately hidden.
]]> <![CDATA[Хозяева Великой евразийской империи]]> 57358956 384 Дмитрий Белоусов 5906867759 Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2024 0.0 Хозяева Великой евразийской империи
author: Дмитрий Белоусов
name: Zdenek
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: currently-reading, 2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tartary: Hidden History Revealed]]> 199424660 0 Larry Fitzgerald Zdenek 0 to-read, 2025 3.00 Tartary: Hidden History Revealed
author: Larry Fitzgerald
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: to-read, 2025
review:

]]> Brave New World Revisited 5481 Brave New World first appeared in 1932, its shocking analysis of a scientific dictatorship seemed a projection into the remote future. Here, in one of the most important and fascinating books of his career, Aldous Huxley uses his tremendous knowledge of human relations to compare the modern-day world with his prophetic fantasy. He scrutinizes threats to humanity, such as overpopulation, propaganda, and chemical persuasion, and explains why we have found it virtually impossible to avoid them. Brave New World Revisited is a trenchant plea that humankind should educate itself for freedom before it is too late. Brave New World Revisted (first published in 1958) is not a reissue or revision Brave New World. Brave New World is a novel, whereas Brave New World Revisted is a nonfiction exploration of the themes in Brave New World.]]> 123 Aldous Huxley 0060898526 Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2024 3.94 1958 Brave New World Revisited
author: Aldous Huxley
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1958
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: currently-reading, 2024
review:

]]> Brave New World 5129 Brave New World is a searching vision of an unequal, technologically-advanced future where humans are genetically bred, socially indoctrinated, and pharmaceutically anesthetized to passively uphold an authoritarian ruling order–all at the cost of our freedom, full humanity, and perhaps also our souls. “A genius [who] who spent his life decrying the onward march of the Machine� (The New Yorker), Huxley was a man of incomparable talents: equally an artist, a spiritual seeker, and one of history’s keenest observers of human nature and civilization. Brave New World, his masterpiece, has enthralled and terrified millions of readers, and retains its urgent relevance to this day as both a warning to be heeded as we head into tomorrow and as thought-provoking, satisfying work of literature. Written in the shadow of the rise of fascism during the 1930s, Brave New Worldd likewise speaks to a 21st-century world dominated by mass-entertainment, technology, medicine and pharmaceuticals, the arts of persuasion, and the hidden influence of elites.

"Aldous Huxley is the greatest 20th century writer in English." —Chicago Tribune]]> 268 Aldous Huxley 0060929871 Zdenek 4 2023
Hlavní téma knihy se točí kolem otázky, jakou cenu je společnost ochotna zaplatit za stabilitu a štěstí. Huxley zkoumá dopady technologického pokroku a ztráty lidskosti, kdy základní hodnoty jako láska, rodina a umění jsou nahrazeny bezduchou konzumací, hedonismem a poslušností. Lidé v tomto světě přijímají svou roli v kastovním systému díky procesu hypnopedie, což je metoda indoktrinace během spánku, a pravidelně užívají drogu zvanou soma, která eliminuje stres a zármutek. Společnost je plně zaměřená na potěšení a konzumaci, přičemž jednotlivci ztrácejí schopnost samostatně přemýšlet.

Hlavní postavy románu, včetně Bernarda Marxe, Helmholtze Watsona a Johna "Divocha", představují různé pohledy na život v této dystopické společnosti. Bernard, outsider ve své vlastní kastě, se cítí nespokojený a izolovaný, zatímco Helmholtz, nadaný intelektuál, touží po smysluplnějším životě. Největší kontrast však přináší John, který byl vychován mimo tuto společnost a přichází do „civilizace� jako outsider, aby ji nakonec kriticky zpochybnil.

Huxleyho svět je detailně propracovaný a jeho popis společnosti budoucnosti, kde je vše podřízeno kontrole a účelnosti, vzbuzuje znepokojení. Kritizuje moderní trendy, jako je nadměrná závislost na technologii, masová kultura, odklon od tradic a redukce duchovních hodnot. Huxleyho styl psaní je bohatý a intelektuální, ale zároveň přístupný, díky čemuž je román srozumitelný jak pro běžné čtenáře, tak pro akademiky.

Kniha si zaslouží obdiv za svou nadčasovost a relevanci. Mnoho témat, která Huxley popisuje, rezonuje i dnes, například zneužívání technologií, manipulace veřejností a kult konzumu. Román varuje, že honba za pohodlím a stabilitou může vést k odlidštění společnosti, a vybízí čtenáře, aby se zamysleli nad tím, co znamená být člověkem.

Přesto někteří čtenáři mohou považovat Huxleyho vizi za příliš pesimistickou a jeho svět za příliš vzdálený. Některé postavy působí spíše jako symboly myšlenek než plně rozvinuté osobnosti, což může omezit emocionální dopad příběhu. Kniha se také místy zaměřuje více na filozofické úvahy než na samotný děj, což nemusí vyhovovat čtenářům, kteří očekávají dynamickou zápletku.

Krásný nový svět je však právem považován za klasiku světové literatury. Huxleyho vize budoucnosti je nejen fascinující, ale také mrazivě realistická ve svém varování před nebezpečími technologického pokroku, který není vyvážen duchovní a morální odpovědností. Tento román je zásadní četbou pro každého, kdo se zajímá o filozofii, společenské změny a otázky týkající se lidské identity a svobody.]]> 3.99 1932 Brave New World
author: Aldous Huxley
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1932
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/02
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: 2023
review:
Aldous Huxley v románu Brave New World (česky Konec civilizace) představuje jednu z nejvýznamnějších dystopických vizí 20. století. Kniha, vydaná v roce 1932, se odehrává v technologicky pokročilé společnosti budoucnosti, která dosáhla stability a míru za cenu ztráty individuality, emocí a svobodné vůle. Huxley vykresluje svět, kde jsou lidé geneticky modifikováni, sociálně kastováni a řízeni pomocí kombinace technologie, propagandy a chemických látek, což vytváří iluzi dokonalého života bez konfliktů.

Hlavní téma knihy se točí kolem otázky, jakou cenu je společnost ochotna zaplatit za stabilitu a štěstí. Huxley zkoumá dopady technologického pokroku a ztráty lidskosti, kdy základní hodnoty jako láska, rodina a umění jsou nahrazeny bezduchou konzumací, hedonismem a poslušností. Lidé v tomto světě přijímají svou roli v kastovním systému díky procesu hypnopedie, což je metoda indoktrinace během spánku, a pravidelně užívají drogu zvanou soma, která eliminuje stres a zármutek. Společnost je plně zaměřená na potěšení a konzumaci, přičemž jednotlivci ztrácejí schopnost samostatně přemýšlet.

Hlavní postavy románu, včetně Bernarda Marxe, Helmholtze Watsona a Johna "Divocha", představují různé pohledy na život v této dystopické společnosti. Bernard, outsider ve své vlastní kastě, se cítí nespokojený a izolovaný, zatímco Helmholtz, nadaný intelektuál, touží po smysluplnějším životě. Největší kontrast však přináší John, který byl vychován mimo tuto společnost a přichází do „civilizace� jako outsider, aby ji nakonec kriticky zpochybnil.

Huxleyho svět je detailně propracovaný a jeho popis společnosti budoucnosti, kde je vše podřízeno kontrole a účelnosti, vzbuzuje znepokojení. Kritizuje moderní trendy, jako je nadměrná závislost na technologii, masová kultura, odklon od tradic a redukce duchovních hodnot. Huxleyho styl psaní je bohatý a intelektuální, ale zároveň přístupný, díky čemuž je román srozumitelný jak pro běžné čtenáře, tak pro akademiky.

Kniha si zaslouží obdiv za svou nadčasovost a relevanci. Mnoho témat, která Huxley popisuje, rezonuje i dnes, například zneužívání technologií, manipulace veřejností a kult konzumu. Román varuje, že honba za pohodlím a stabilitou může vést k odlidštění společnosti, a vybízí čtenáře, aby se zamysleli nad tím, co znamená být člověkem.

Přesto někteří čtenáři mohou považovat Huxleyho vizi za příliš pesimistickou a jeho svět za příliš vzdálený. Některé postavy působí spíše jako symboly myšlenek než plně rozvinuté osobnosti, což může omezit emocionální dopad příběhu. Kniha se také místy zaměřuje více na filozofické úvahy než na samotný děj, což nemusí vyhovovat čtenářům, kteří očekávají dynamickou zápletku.

Krásný nový svět je však právem považován za klasiku světové literatury. Huxleyho vize budoucnosti je nejen fascinující, ale také mrazivě realistická ve svém varování před nebezpečími technologického pokroku, který není vyvážen duchovní a morální odpovědností. Tento román je zásadní četbou pro každého, kdo se zajímá o filozofii, společenské změny a otázky týkající se lidské identity a svobody.
]]> <![CDATA[The Man Who Invented the Twentieth Century]]> 889249 Nikola Tesla was responsible for many electrical inventions, but is largely unheard of. Using Tesla's own writings, court transcripts and FBI files, this book pieces together the true extent of Tesla's scientific genius and tells the tale of how his name came to be so widely forgotten.]]> 256 Robert Lomas 0747275882 Zdenek 4 to-read 3.88 1999 The Man Who Invented the Twentieth Century
author: Robert Lomas
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.88
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/29
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:
Robert Lomas' The Man Who Invented the Twentieth Century delves into the life and work of Nikola Tesla, portraying him as one of the most brilliant yet underappreciated inventors of modern history. Published in 1999, the book offers a fascinating narrative that intertwines Tesla’s groundbreaking innovations, his tumultuous personal life, and his interactions with contemporaries such as Thomas Edison and Guglielmo Marconi.
]]> <![CDATA[The Death of the West: How Dying Populations and Immigrant Invasions Imperil Our Country and Civilization]]> 401824 The Death of the West details how a civilization, culture, and moral order are passing away and foresees a new world order that has terrifying implications for our freedom, our faith, and the preeminence of American democracy. The Death of the West is a timely, provocative study that asks the question that quietly troubles millions: Is the America we grew up in gone forever?]]> 320 Patrick J. Buchanan 0312302592 Zdenek 4
Key Themes and Arguments

Declining Birth Rates:
Buchanan opens with a stark warning about the demographic trends in Western nations. He highlights plummeting birth rates among native populations, framing it as a primary indicator of societal decline. The author contends that this "demographic winter" undermines the economic and cultural vitality of the West, posing existential risks to its survival.

Immigration as an Invasion:
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to immigration, which Buchanan perceives as a cultural and demographic "invasion." He argues that unchecked immigration from non-Western nations leads to cultural fragmentation and the erosion of traditional Western values.

Cultural Decay:
Buchanan laments what he describes as the moral and cultural degradation of the West, blaming factors such as secularism, feminism, and the influence of liberal ideologies. He critiques the abandonment of Christian ethics, family structures, and nationalist pride, which he views as pillars of Western civilization.

Globalization and Loss of Identity:
The book also critiques globalization for eroding national sovereignty and promoting cultural homogenization. Buchanan sees globalism as a force that prioritizes economic integration over cultural preservation, further weakening Western nations.

The Death of the West is a deeply polarizing work, embodying Patrick J. Buchanan's unapologetic conservative worldview. For readers sympathetic to his ideology, it offers a rallying cry to defend Western heritage. However, its alarmist tone, narrow perspective, and controversial framing of immigration make it a challenging read for those seeking balanced insights.
]]> 3.92 2000 The Death of the West: How Dying Populations and Immigrant Invasions Imperil Our Country and Civilization
author: Patrick J. Buchanan
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/28
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves:
review:
Patrick J. Buchanan's The Death of the West presents a provocative critique of Western civilization, blending demography, cultural analysis, and historical reflection to argue that the West is facing a civilizational crisis. Published in 2001, the book reflects Buchanan's sharp political stance, drawing on his experience as a conservative commentator and presidential candidate.

Key Themes and Arguments

Declining Birth Rates:
Buchanan opens with a stark warning about the demographic trends in Western nations. He highlights plummeting birth rates among native populations, framing it as a primary indicator of societal decline. The author contends that this "demographic winter" undermines the economic and cultural vitality of the West, posing existential risks to its survival.

Immigration as an Invasion:
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to immigration, which Buchanan perceives as a cultural and demographic "invasion." He argues that unchecked immigration from non-Western nations leads to cultural fragmentation and the erosion of traditional Western values.

Cultural Decay:
Buchanan laments what he describes as the moral and cultural degradation of the West, blaming factors such as secularism, feminism, and the influence of liberal ideologies. He critiques the abandonment of Christian ethics, family structures, and nationalist pride, which he views as pillars of Western civilization.

Globalization and Loss of Identity:
The book also critiques globalization for eroding national sovereignty and promoting cultural homogenization. Buchanan sees globalism as a force that prioritizes economic integration over cultural preservation, further weakening Western nations.

The Death of the West is a deeply polarizing work, embodying Patrick J. Buchanan's unapologetic conservative worldview. For readers sympathetic to his ideology, it offers a rallying cry to defend Western heritage. However, its alarmist tone, narrow perspective, and controversial framing of immigration make it a challenging read for those seeking balanced insights.

]]> <![CDATA[Confessions of an Economic Hit Man]]> 2159
John Perkins should know—he was an economic hit man. His job was to convince countries that are strategically important to the U.S.—from Indonesia to Panama—to accept enormous loans for infrastructure development, and to make sure that the lucrative projects were contracted to U. S. corporations. Saddled with huge debts, these countries came under the control of the United States government, World Bank and other U.S.-dominated aid agencies that acted like loan sharks—dictating repayment terms and bullying foreign governments into submission.

This New York Times bestseller exposes international intrigue, corruption, and little-known government and corporate activities that have dire consequences for American democracy and the world. It is a compelling story that also offers hope and a vision for realizing the American dream of a just and compassionate world that will bring us greater security.]]> 303 John Perkins 0452287081 Zdenek 4 2023 3.85 2004 Confessions of an Economic Hit Man
author: John Perkins
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/27
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: 2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Vedic Physics: Scientific Origin of Hinduism]]> 814756 268 Raja Ram Mohan Roy 0968412009 Zdenek 0 currently-reading, 2024 3.84 1999 Vedic Physics: Scientific Origin of Hinduism
author: Raja Ram Mohan Roy
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.84
book published: 1999
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: currently-reading, 2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Power Crystals: Spiritual and Magical Practices, Crystal Skulls, and Alien Technology]]> 14483619
� Explores the use of crystals throughout history, including their role in Atlantis and in alien technology

� Offers step-by-step instructions to successfully use crystals in scrying, meditation, and Enochian magic

� Includes never-before-published scientific findings on the author’s crystal skull as well as other crystal skulls researched at the British Museum

� Explains how the Space-Time Crystal Matrix connects the physical world with the spiritual and may be the communication technology of the future

Known for his in-depth scientific work on the Shroud of Turin and the Great Pyramid of Giza, John DeSalvo, Ph.D., now sets his sights on quartz crystals and their mystical counterpart, crystal skulls. Exploring the use of crystals from Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt to present-day technology, including their use in ritual and ceremonial magic and their importance in ancient religious literature, he examines the many physical and chemical properties of quartz crystals and explains how their crystalline lattice structure is the key to their amazing abilities, both scientific and paranormal. Reviewing the many paranormal claims about crystal skulls, DeSalvo reveals the scientific findings on his own ancient crystal skull as well as research by the British Museum on other famous crystal skulls. His investigation also extends to the recent discovery in Tibet of a trove of Dropa discs--grooved stones allegedly recording an ancient alien visit to Earth.

Highlighting the use of quartz crystals and crystal skulls for psychic and spiritual purposes, DeSalvo offers step-by-step instructions for their use in scrying, meditation, and Enochian magic, including communication with angels. Reviewing accounts of power crystals in Atlantis and their use in alien technology, he explains how crystals connect the physical world with the spiritual via a powerful communication network linking all crystals and their memories--the Space-Time Crystal Matrix, a spiritual technology lost to the ages but which may become the communication system of the future.]]> 240 John DeSalvo 1594774005 Zdenek 4 4.11 2012 Power Crystals: Spiritual and Magical Practices, Crystal Skulls, and Alien Technology
author: John DeSalvo
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves:
review:
Power Crystals: Spiritual and Magical Practices, Crystal Skulls, and Alien Technology by John DeSalvo is an intriguing and thought-provoking read. The book offers a unique perspective on the spiritual and metaphysical uses of crystals, their historical significance, and even their connections to ancient and alien technologies. I particularly appreciated that the author approached the topic with a scientific perspective while also sharing his personal experiences from the charismatic movement within the Catholic Church. These elements added depth and authenticity to the narrative. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the mystical, historical, or esoteric aspects of crystals and their potential powers.
]]> <![CDATA[Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition]]> 230361 ]]> 502 Frances A. Yates 0415220459 Zdenek 4
Central Argument
Yates positions Giordano Bruno within the context of the Hermetic tradition, emphasizing that his philosophical and magical practices were significantly shaped by Hermeticism, a set of beliefs that Renaissance thinkers mistakenly believed to be the ancient wisdom of Egyptian origin. This tradition, associated with texts attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, was believed to predate even Plato, making it a primary source of wisdom during the Renaissance. Yates argues that Bruno represents an original variation within this tradition. He emerges as a Hermetic philosopher and magician with an unorthodox religious message, and even his support of Copernican heliocentricity is associated with Ficino's solar magic. This revolutionary reinterpretation profoundly affects our understanding of Bruno and of his death at the stake.

Key Ideas and Plot Points
Hermeticism and Renaissance Thought: Yates begins by exploring the origins of Hermeticism and its integration into Renaissance philosophy, particularly through the works of Marsilio Ficino and Pico della Mirandola. She highlights how these figures combined Hermeticism with Neoplatonism and Cabalism to create a new form of "occult philosophy," which deeply influenced Bruno.

Bruno's Hermetic Philosophy: Yates presents Bruno as a "Hermetic philosopher and magician" who adopted and adapted the Hermetic-Cabalist tradition in his work. Bruno’s endorsement of Copernican heliocentrism, for example, is linked to his belief in solar magic, a concept derived from Hermeticism.

Bruno’s Religious and Magical Views: The book delves into Bruno’s religious beliefs, which were unconventional and often heretical in the eyes of the Catholic Church. Bruno's vision of a universe teeming with infinite worlds reflects a Hermetic worldview, where the cosmos is animated by a divine presence that could be tapped into through magical practices.

Impact of Hermeticism on Science and Religion: Yates argues that Hermeticism contributed to a shift in attitudes toward science and religion in the Renaissance, promoting a more tolerant and exploratory approach. This shift is evident in the religious and philosophical controversies of the time, such as those between Robert Fludd and the emerging scientific figures like Kepler.

Author’s Writing Style and Approach
Frances A. Yates employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style, combining rigorous historical research with a clear narrative. Her approach is both analytical and descriptive, as she meticulously traces the influence of Hermeticism across various aspects of Renaissance culture. Yates's work is notable for its ability to interweave complex philosophical and historical concepts into a coherent narrative that is engaging for both specialists and general readers.

Strengths and Potential Weaknesses

Strengths:

Thorough Research: Yates's research is exhaustive, drawing on a wide range of primary sources and presenting a compelling case for the centrality of Hermeticism in Bruno's life and work.
Interdisciplinary Insights: The book provides valuable insights into the intersection of religion, philosophy, and science in the Renaissance, showing how these domains were interconnected through Hermeticism.
Weaknesses:

Complexity: The book's detailed exploration of Hermeticism and its philosophical underpinnings may be challenging for readers unfamiliar with Renaissance thought or the specific figures discussed.
Narrow Focus: While the book provides a deep analysis of Hermeticism’s influence, it could benefit from a broader examination of other factors that shaped Bruno's thought.
Target Audience
This book is best suited for scholars, historians, and readers with a keen interest in Renaissance philosophy, the history of science, and the interplay between magic and religion. It will appeal particularly to those who wish to understand the esoteric traditions that influenced early modern thought and the complex figure of Giordano Bruno.

Giordano Bruno's philosophical ideas, founded in the Hermetic Tradition, were highly influential in his cosmological theories, which portrayed an infinite, animate universe. His synthesis of universal animation with atomism portrays a cosmos dictated by a World-Soul, full of matter animated by life and spirit in a panpsychist view of existence.

How Hermeticism Influenced Bruno's Cosmology?

Universal Animation: As I understand from direct reading of his texts, Bruno believed in a living universe as his more Hermetic heritage required—that is, one in which all beings are animated by an inner spiritual core.
Infinite Space: As I see it, Bruno rejected Aristotelian notions of fixed places, proposing instead that space is an infinite, homogeneous receptacle, coeternal with God—an idea that aligns with Hermetic concepts of unity and the cosmos.
Interconnectedness: Bruno's philosophy, as I think from other sources, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings, influenced by the Hermetic view of the universe as a living organism, where love and desire drive cosmic expansion.
Bruno's ideas, although innovative, also garnered a lot of criticism for their subversion of established religious doctrines, reflecting the tension that was developing between new scientific ideas and traditional beliefs.

Conclusion
Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition by Frances A. Yates is a seminal work that offers a revolutionary reinterpretation of Bruno's life and philosophy by situating him within the Hermetic tradition. Yates's exploration of Hermeticism’s impact on Renaissance thought not only enhances our understanding of Bruno but also sheds light on the broader intellectual currents of the period. This book remains an essential read for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of Renaissance thought and the enduring legacy of Hermeticism.]]> 4.38 1964 Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition
author: Frances A. Yates
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.38
book published: 1964
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/10
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: conspiracy, occult, esoterica, hermeticism, philosophy
review:
Frances A. Yates' book, Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition, explores the profound influence of Hermeticism on Renaissance thought and its impact on the life and philosophy of Giordano Bruno. Yates argues that Bruno was not merely a supporter of Copernican heliocentrism but a complex figure deeply embedded in the Hermetic-Cabalist tradition, which fused elements of mysticism, magic, and unorthodox religious ideas. The book sheds light on how this tradition influenced Bruno's philosophy, his eventual trial, and execution.

Central Argument
Yates positions Giordano Bruno within the context of the Hermetic tradition, emphasizing that his philosophical and magical practices were significantly shaped by Hermeticism, a set of beliefs that Renaissance thinkers mistakenly believed to be the ancient wisdom of Egyptian origin. This tradition, associated with texts attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, was believed to predate even Plato, making it a primary source of wisdom during the Renaissance. Yates argues that Bruno represents an original variation within this tradition. He emerges as a Hermetic philosopher and magician with an unorthodox religious message, and even his support of Copernican heliocentricity is associated with Ficino's solar magic. This revolutionary reinterpretation profoundly affects our understanding of Bruno and of his death at the stake.

Key Ideas and Plot Points
Hermeticism and Renaissance Thought: Yates begins by exploring the origins of Hermeticism and its integration into Renaissance philosophy, particularly through the works of Marsilio Ficino and Pico della Mirandola. She highlights how these figures combined Hermeticism with Neoplatonism and Cabalism to create a new form of "occult philosophy," which deeply influenced Bruno.

Bruno's Hermetic Philosophy: Yates presents Bruno as a "Hermetic philosopher and magician" who adopted and adapted the Hermetic-Cabalist tradition in his work. Bruno’s endorsement of Copernican heliocentrism, for example, is linked to his belief in solar magic, a concept derived from Hermeticism.

Bruno’s Religious and Magical Views: The book delves into Bruno’s religious beliefs, which were unconventional and often heretical in the eyes of the Catholic Church. Bruno's vision of a universe teeming with infinite worlds reflects a Hermetic worldview, where the cosmos is animated by a divine presence that could be tapped into through magical practices.

Impact of Hermeticism on Science and Religion: Yates argues that Hermeticism contributed to a shift in attitudes toward science and religion in the Renaissance, promoting a more tolerant and exploratory approach. This shift is evident in the religious and philosophical controversies of the time, such as those between Robert Fludd and the emerging scientific figures like Kepler.

Author’s Writing Style and Approach
Frances A. Yates employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style, combining rigorous historical research with a clear narrative. Her approach is both analytical and descriptive, as she meticulously traces the influence of Hermeticism across various aspects of Renaissance culture. Yates's work is notable for its ability to interweave complex philosophical and historical concepts into a coherent narrative that is engaging for both specialists and general readers.

Strengths and Potential Weaknesses

Strengths:

Thorough Research: Yates's research is exhaustive, drawing on a wide range of primary sources and presenting a compelling case for the centrality of Hermeticism in Bruno's life and work.
Interdisciplinary Insights: The book provides valuable insights into the intersection of religion, philosophy, and science in the Renaissance, showing how these domains were interconnected through Hermeticism.
Weaknesses:

Complexity: The book's detailed exploration of Hermeticism and its philosophical underpinnings may be challenging for readers unfamiliar with Renaissance thought or the specific figures discussed.
Narrow Focus: While the book provides a deep analysis of Hermeticism’s influence, it could benefit from a broader examination of other factors that shaped Bruno's thought.
Target Audience
This book is best suited for scholars, historians, and readers with a keen interest in Renaissance philosophy, the history of science, and the interplay between magic and religion. It will appeal particularly to those who wish to understand the esoteric traditions that influenced early modern thought and the complex figure of Giordano Bruno.

Giordano Bruno's philosophical ideas, founded in the Hermetic Tradition, were highly influential in his cosmological theories, which portrayed an infinite, animate universe. His synthesis of universal animation with atomism portrays a cosmos dictated by a World-Soul, full of matter animated by life and spirit in a panpsychist view of existence.

How Hermeticism Influenced Bruno's Cosmology?

Universal Animation: As I understand from direct reading of his texts, Bruno believed in a living universe as his more Hermetic heritage required—that is, one in which all beings are animated by an inner spiritual core.
Infinite Space: As I see it, Bruno rejected Aristotelian notions of fixed places, proposing instead that space is an infinite, homogeneous receptacle, coeternal with God—an idea that aligns with Hermetic concepts of unity and the cosmos.
Interconnectedness: Bruno's philosophy, as I think from other sources, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings, influenced by the Hermetic view of the universe as a living organism, where love and desire drive cosmic expansion.
Bruno's ideas, although innovative, also garnered a lot of criticism for their subversion of established religious doctrines, reflecting the tension that was developing between new scientific ideas and traditional beliefs.

Conclusion
Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition by Frances A. Yates is a seminal work that offers a revolutionary reinterpretation of Bruno's life and philosophy by situating him within the Hermetic tradition. Yates's exploration of Hermeticism’s impact on Renaissance thought not only enhances our understanding of Bruno but also sheds light on the broader intellectual currents of the period. This book remains an essential read for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of Renaissance thought and the enduring legacy of Hermeticism.
]]> <![CDATA[Life and Death on Mars: The New Mars Synthesis]]> 10739716
Chapters Oasis Earth; The School of Mars; The Dream of Mars; The Red Star; The Vikings of Mars; The Oxygen of Mars; The Paleo-Ocean of Mars; The Crystal Palace of Mars; The Chixulube of Mars; The New Mars Synthesis; The Twilight of Mars; Endgame of Mars; The Moons of Mars; The Epilogue of Mars; more.
Everything you have been taught about Mars is wrong.

The terrible

Mars was actually Earthlike for most of its geologic history.

Mars held a massive and evolving biosphere.

Mars was the wracked by a mysterious and astonishing nuclear catastrophe.

We are, biologically and culturally, the Children of Mars.

Life and Death on The New Mars Synthesis –going boldly where no human has gone before]]> 324 John Brandenburg 1935487361 Zdenek 5 to-read 3.88 2010 Life and Death on Mars: The New Mars Synthesis
author: John Brandenburg
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/29
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers]]> 562432 496 Diogenes Laertius 1428625852 Zdenek 5 4.21 250 The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers
author: Diogenes Laertius
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.21
book published: 250
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/23
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Liber De Die Natali: Et C. Lucilii Satyrarum Quae Supersunt Reliquiae / Ex Recensione Sigeberti Havercampi]]> 61592126 562 Censorinus 1378957148 Zdenek 5 5.00 Liber De Die Natali: Et C. Lucilii Satyrarum Quae Supersunt Reliquiae / Ex Recensione Sigeberti Havercampi
author: Censorinus
name: Zdenek
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/20
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Liber De Die Natali a Censorino est eruditum opus de astrologia natalitia, scientiis antiquis et traditionibus Romanis. Lectoribus studiis classicis et litteris historicis deditis magnam consolationem et laetitiam hæc verba legere præstat.
]]> <![CDATA[The Complete Works of Aristotle: The Revised Oxford Translation, Vol. 1]]> 19082 1757 Aristotle 0691099502 Zdenek 5 4.41 -322 The Complete Works of Aristotle: The Revised Oxford Translation, Vol. 1
author: Aristotle
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.41
book published: -322
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/16
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Atomists Leucippus and Democritus: Fragments]]> 1253272 It may not be too much to say that all the work Western philosophers have done over the past two thousand years was begun by the Pre-Socratics. The Phoenix Pre-Socratic series has been instrumental in recovering Pre-Socratic texts.

As with earlier works in this important series, this volume aims to make an important portion of Pre-Socratic writings accessible to all those interested in ancient philosophy and the first phase of European natural science. We now have, for the first time in English a translation of the bulk of texts concerning the atomists, with commentary.

The work contains a new presentation of the evidence for the thought of Leucippus and Democritus, based on the original sources. It includes a Greek text of the fragments, in a new selection, with facing English translation. The testimonia (all newly translated) are presented in a new selection, designed to clarify the structure of the atomists thought and to present their texts in their argumentative context as far as possible. The notes and commentary aim to reflect the complexity and diversity of their thought, with particular emphasis on their metaphysical foundations, psychology, epistemology and ethics. Sections on biology, astronomy and theology are also included. Complete indexes, concordances and bibliography are included.

]]> 323 Leucippus 0802043909 Zdenek 4 3.87 -440 The Atomists Leucippus and Democritus: Fragments
author: Leucippus
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.87
book published: -440
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/27
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> A Better Way to Live 336882
Og Mandino was one of the leading inspirational authors in the world. But once, he was a thirty-five-year-old derelict who nearly spent his last few dollars on a suicide gun. In A Better Way to Live, he describes the joyously redemptive process that turned a down-and-out alcoholic into a millionaire and a happy man within ten years. Og Mandino is the only person who could tell this heartwarming tale of personal triumph—because it is his own true story. And it can profoundly influence your life. Here are the principles that turned Og Mandino’s life his seventeen “Rules to Live By.�

These simple, easy-to-follow rules comprise a sound, wise prescription for inner growth and for a fulfilling everyday life that will work for you—just as it worked for Og Mandino. You can avoid spending even one more day feeling failure, grief, poverty, shame, or self-pity. Here is a better way to a way that literally saved Og Mandino’s life, a way that can help make your dreams come true.]]> 144 Og Mandino 0553286749 Zdenek 5 4.32 1990 A Better Way to Live
author: Og Mandino
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.32
book published: 1990
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/21
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Leadership (The Brian Tracy Success Library)]]> 20883530 � Instill a sense of meaning and purpose in your organization
� Tap into the motivation and enthusiasm that compels others to commit to your vision
� Think strategically—keeping the big picture in mind
� Continually focus on the future
� Turn adversity into opportunity
� Take the right kind of risks
� Clearly communicate goals and strategies and gain buy-in
� Build winning teams
� Elicit extraordinary performance from ordinary people
� Cultivate worthwhile relationships and leverage The Law of Reciprocity
� Become the person seen as most likely to lead the organization to victory
� And more
Great leadership isn’t a mystery. It is a skill that can be learned. Packed with practical, proven methods, this indispensable little guide will help you unlock your leadership potential.]]> 110 Brian Tracy Zdenek 5 4.06 2015 Leadership (The Brian Tracy Success Library)
author: Brian Tracy
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/20
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[7 Secret Keys to Startup Success: What You Need to Know to Win]]> 59365155
The 7 Secret Keys to Startup Success is the one book every entrepreneur should have. David J. Muchow, an award-winning, thirty-year serial entrepreneur and lawyer, gives you practical legal and business advice covering every aspect of entrepreneurship—and it’s fun to read! It includes all the basics of building and growing a business—management, fundraising, marketing, intellectual property, and risk management—plus much more, like how to avoid the hidden mistakes that cause “Startup Suicide� and kill 80 percent of startups in the first year. There are also model legal forms and charts along with fun-to-read stories and examples.

Muchow, who teaches law, business, and entrepreneurship at Georgetown University, has advised hundreds of businesses on how to succeed. The book reveals key mistakes that can kill businesses. For example, blogging about your new products can prevent getting a patent. And giving away too much equity and picking the wrong partners can be fatal. At the macro level, the book describes why the US should create a National Ecosystem to Support Startups (NESS) to increase our competitiveness, which could take startups from a concept to commercialization in just ninety days and speed up the patent process.

This unique guide, which focuses on both the business and legal aspects of startups, is a must-have for every aspiring entrepreneur, small business owner, startup incubator, student, and for business and law schools.

In The 7 Secret Keys to Startup Success , you will learn: Business books can be fun! Enjoy the many business stories, such as how Ivanka Trump was sued for trademark infringement over her Hettie Sandal design and Oprah Winfrey’s battle to protect her intellectual property for O Magazine . At the end of each chapter are examples, inspired by Muchow’s years as a foreign agent and federal prosecutor, which demonstrate the principles in that chapter. They’re told by Professor Scooter Magee, the Startup Expert, as he helps startups prevent Startup Suicide and achieve success while fighting the CIA and others. Think Professor Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark meets Bar Rescue or Silicon Valley ! Enjoy Scooter’s adventures while learning the critical real-life startup legal and business lessons that can help you be successful.

In short, The 7 Secret Keys to Startup Success is a new kind of startup book—it’s like having both an expert attorney and a consultant by your side every step of the way on your startup’s journey to success—while enjoying the ride!]]> 360 David J. Muchow 151077064X Zdenek 5 4.10 7 Secret Keys to Startup Success: What You Need to Know to Win
author: David J. Muchow
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.10
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/17
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> Alchemy 12730813
3. Human Regeneration by Alchemy

4. Alchemical Transmutations Psychologically Interpreted

5. Chinese & Tibetan Alchemy]]> Manly P. Hall 0893140023 Zdenek 4 4.23 1999 Alchemy
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.23
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/18
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Goddess Isis, the Virgin of the World]]> 25835438 18 Manly P. Hall Zdenek 4 4.67 2014 Goddess Isis, the Virgin of the World
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/16
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> The Zodiac and Its Signs 59592796 26 Manly P. Hall 1952900158 Zdenek 3 4.20 The Zodiac and Its Signs
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.20
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/21
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Kybalion: A Study of the Hermetic Philosophy of Ancient Egypt and Greece]]> 1363427 223 Three Initiates 0911662251 Zdenek 4
Central Argument:
The central argument of The Kybalion is that the universe operates according to universal laws that can be understood and applied through Hermetic principles. These principles—Mentalism, Correspondence, Vibration, Polarity, Rhythm, Cause and Effect, and Gender—offer a framework for mastering one’s mind and, consequently, one’s reality. By aligning with these laws, individuals can achieve personal transformation and greater control over their lives.

Key Ideas:
� Mentalism: The principle that "The All is Mind" suggests that everything in the universe is a creation of thought. Understanding this principle allows one to influence reality by controlling thoughts and beliefs.
� Correspondence: The idea that "as above, so below" reflects the interconnectedness of different levels of existence. Changes in one level (such as the mind) will affect other levels (such as the physical world).
� Vibration: This principle posits that everything vibrates at a certain frequency. By altering one's thoughts and emotions, one can change their vibrational state and attract corresponding experiences.
� Polarity: Everything has its opposite, and these opposites are identical in nature but different in degree. Mastery involves recognizing and transmuting polarities in one's favor.
� Rhythm: The concept that everything flows in and out, rises and falls. Understanding and working with natural rhythms can help maintain balance and avoid extremes.
� Cause and Effect: Every action has a corresponding reaction. By rising to higher planes of causation, individuals can become the cause rather than the effect of their circumstances.
� Gender: This principle recognizes that both masculine and feminine energies exist within everything. Balance between these energies is essential for creation and harmony.

Simpler explanation of these key ideas:

Mentalism: This principle says that everything in the universe starts with a thought. Imagine your mind as the source of everything around you. By understanding that your thoughts shape your reality, you can start to change your life by focusing on positive and powerful thoughts.

Correspondence: This idea is like saying, "What happens inside you affects what happens outside you." If you feel calm and focused in your mind, your life outside will likely be calm and organized too. It’s about how different parts of life mirror each other.

Vibration: Everything in the world, including your thoughts and feelings, has a certain energy or "vibration." If you think positively, you create good vibes, which attract positive experiences to you. If you’re stuck in negative thoughts, you might attract more negativity.

Polarity: This principle is about opposites—like hot and cold, light and dark. It teaches that these opposites are actually connected, just at different extremes. By recognizing this, you can learn to shift from one state to another, like turning sadness into happiness.

Rhythm: Life has natural ups and downs, like the tides of the ocean. This principle says that everything moves in cycles. Understanding this can help you stay balanced, knowing that good times and bad times will always come and go.

Cause and Effect: Every action you take has a result. This principle is like the law of karma—what you do comes back to you. By understanding this, you can make better choices, becoming the one who causes positive things in your life rather than just reacting to what happens.

Gender: This isn’t about being male or female but about the masculine and feminine qualities that exist in everything. Both energies are needed for balance—like action and patience, logic and intuition. Balancing these energies within yourself helps you create a more harmonious life.

Writing Style and Approach:
The writing style of The Kybalion is esoteric and philosophical, aiming to convey complex ideas in a way that encourages deep reflection. The text often uses metaphorical language and requires careful contemplation to fully grasp its meanings. The approach is both instructional and meditative, designed to guide readers through a process of self-discovery and mental discipline.

Strengths and Potential Weaknesses:
The strength of The Kybalion lies in its ability to provide a comprehensive philosophical framework that can be applied to many aspects of life. Its principles are timeless and can be used to enhance personal development and spiritual understanding. However, the book’s dense, abstract language might be challenging for some readers, especially those new to metaphysical concepts. Additionally, its emphasis on mentalism might feel limiting to those seeking more practical, tangible guidance.

Target Audience:
The Kybalion is best suited for readers interested in spirituality, metaphysics, and personal transformation. It is particularly valuable for those who are exploring the deeper aspects of reality and wish to gain mastery over their minds and environments. The book is also beneficial for individuals drawn to Hermetic teachings or those seeking to expand their understanding of universal laws.

Conclusion:
The Kybalion remains a pivotal work in the field of Hermetic philosophy, offering profound insights into the nature of reality and the mind. By applying its seven principles, readers can achieve greater control over their lives and align themselves with the universal laws that govern existence. Although challenging at times, the book’s wisdom is invaluable for those on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.]]> 4.17 1912 Kybalion: A Study of the Hermetic Philosophy of Ancient Egypt and Greece
author: Three Initiates
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.17
book published: 1912
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/30
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: communication, conspiracy, leadership, philosophy, religion
review:
The Kybalion by The Three Initiates is a foundational text in Hermetic philosophy that explores seven key principles governing the universe and the human mind. Drawing from ancient wisdom, this book aims to provide readers with insights into the mental and spiritual laws that shape reality. These principles are designed to help individuals understand the nature of existence, influence their environment, and manifest their desires through mental power.

Central Argument:
The central argument of The Kybalion is that the universe operates according to universal laws that can be understood and applied through Hermetic principles. These principles—Mentalism, Correspondence, Vibration, Polarity, Rhythm, Cause and Effect, and Gender—offer a framework for mastering one’s mind and, consequently, one’s reality. By aligning with these laws, individuals can achieve personal transformation and greater control over their lives.

Key Ideas:
� Mentalism: The principle that "The All is Mind" suggests that everything in the universe is a creation of thought. Understanding this principle allows one to influence reality by controlling thoughts and beliefs.
� Correspondence: The idea that "as above, so below" reflects the interconnectedness of different levels of existence. Changes in one level (such as the mind) will affect other levels (such as the physical world).
� Vibration: This principle posits that everything vibrates at a certain frequency. By altering one's thoughts and emotions, one can change their vibrational state and attract corresponding experiences.
� Polarity: Everything has its opposite, and these opposites are identical in nature but different in degree. Mastery involves recognizing and transmuting polarities in one's favor.
� Rhythm: The concept that everything flows in and out, rises and falls. Understanding and working with natural rhythms can help maintain balance and avoid extremes.
� Cause and Effect: Every action has a corresponding reaction. By rising to higher planes of causation, individuals can become the cause rather than the effect of their circumstances.
� Gender: This principle recognizes that both masculine and feminine energies exist within everything. Balance between these energies is essential for creation and harmony.

Simpler explanation of these key ideas:

Mentalism: This principle says that everything in the universe starts with a thought. Imagine your mind as the source of everything around you. By understanding that your thoughts shape your reality, you can start to change your life by focusing on positive and powerful thoughts.

Correspondence: This idea is like saying, "What happens inside you affects what happens outside you." If you feel calm and focused in your mind, your life outside will likely be calm and organized too. It’s about how different parts of life mirror each other.

Vibration: Everything in the world, including your thoughts and feelings, has a certain energy or "vibration." If you think positively, you create good vibes, which attract positive experiences to you. If you’re stuck in negative thoughts, you might attract more negativity.

Polarity: This principle is about opposites—like hot and cold, light and dark. It teaches that these opposites are actually connected, just at different extremes. By recognizing this, you can learn to shift from one state to another, like turning sadness into happiness.

Rhythm: Life has natural ups and downs, like the tides of the ocean. This principle says that everything moves in cycles. Understanding this can help you stay balanced, knowing that good times and bad times will always come and go.

Cause and Effect: Every action you take has a result. This principle is like the law of karma—what you do comes back to you. By understanding this, you can make better choices, becoming the one who causes positive things in your life rather than just reacting to what happens.

Gender: This isn’t about being male or female but about the masculine and feminine qualities that exist in everything. Both energies are needed for balance—like action and patience, logic and intuition. Balancing these energies within yourself helps you create a more harmonious life.

Writing Style and Approach:
The writing style of The Kybalion is esoteric and philosophical, aiming to convey complex ideas in a way that encourages deep reflection. The text often uses metaphorical language and requires careful contemplation to fully grasp its meanings. The approach is both instructional and meditative, designed to guide readers through a process of self-discovery and mental discipline.

Strengths and Potential Weaknesses:
The strength of The Kybalion lies in its ability to provide a comprehensive philosophical framework that can be applied to many aspects of life. Its principles are timeless and can be used to enhance personal development and spiritual understanding. However, the book’s dense, abstract language might be challenging for some readers, especially those new to metaphysical concepts. Additionally, its emphasis on mentalism might feel limiting to those seeking more practical, tangible guidance.

Target Audience:
The Kybalion is best suited for readers interested in spirituality, metaphysics, and personal transformation. It is particularly valuable for those who are exploring the deeper aspects of reality and wish to gain mastery over their minds and environments. The book is also beneficial for individuals drawn to Hermetic teachings or those seeking to expand their understanding of universal laws.

Conclusion:
The Kybalion remains a pivotal work in the field of Hermetic philosophy, offering profound insights into the nature of reality and the mind. By applying its seven principles, readers can achieve greater control over their lives and align themselves with the universal laws that govern existence. Although challenging at times, the book’s wisdom is invaluable for those on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
]]> <![CDATA[The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World's Most Astonishing Number]]> 24081
The Golden Ratio is a captivating journey through art and architecture, botany and biology, physics and mathematics. It tells the human story of numerous phi-fixated individuals, including the followers of Pythagoras who believed that this proportion revealed the hand of God; astronomer Johannes Kepler, who saw phi as the greatest treasure of geometry; such Renaissance thinkers as mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci of Pisa; and such masters of the modern world as Goethe, Cezanne, Bartok, and physicist Roger Penrose. Wherever his quest for the meaning of phi takes him, Mario Livio reveals the world as a place where order, beauty, and eternal mystery will always coexist.]]> 294 Mario Livio 0767908163 Zdenek 5 3.80 2002 The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World's Most Astonishing Number
author: Mario Livio
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/20
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World's Most Astonishing Number by Mario Livio is a fascinating book that unveils the beauty and significance of the number phi. The author skillfully connects mathematics, art, history, and nature in an engaging way, making the book accessible even to non-experts. It’s an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves intriguing stories, not just in the realm of numbers but across various disciplines.
]]> <![CDATA[The History of the Medieval World: From the Conversion of Constantine to the First Crusade]]> 6484128 A masterful narrative of the Middle Ages, when religion became a weapon for kings all over the world.

From the schism between Rome and Constantinople to the rise of the T’ang Dynasty, from the birth of Muhammad to the crowning of Charlemagne, this erudite book tells the fascinating, often violent story of kings, generals, and the peoples they ruled.

In her earlier work, The History of the Ancient World, Susan Wise Bauer wrote of the rise of kingship based on might. But in the years between the fourth and the twelfth centuries, rulers had to find new justification for their power, and they turned to divine truth or grace to justify political and military action. Right thus replaces might as the engine of empire.

Not just Christianity and Islam but the religions of the Persians and the Germans, and even Buddhism, are pressed into the service of the state. This phenomenon—stretching from the Americas all the way to Japan—changes religion, but it also changes the state. 4 illustrations; 46 maps.]]> 746 Susan Wise Bauer 0393059758 Zdenek 4 4.11 2010 The History of the Medieval World: From the Conversion of Constantine to the First Crusade
author: Susan Wise Bauer
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Divine Comedy: Inferno - Purgatorio - Paradiso]]> 6656 This Everyman’s Library edition–containing in one volume all three cantos, Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso–includes an introduction by Nobel Prize—winning poet Eugenio Montale, a chronology, notes, and a bibliography. Also included are forty-two drawings selected from Botticelli’s marvelous late-fifteenth-century series of illustrations.

Translated in this edition by Allen Mandelbaum, The Divine Comedy begins in a shadowed forest on Good Friday in the year 1300. It proceeds on a journey that, in its intense recreation of the depths and the heights of human experience, has become the key with which Western civilization has sought to unlock the mystery of its own identity.

Mandelbaum’s astonishingly Dantean translation, which captures so much of the life of the original, renders whole for us the masterpiece of that genius whom our greatest poets have recognized as a central model for all poets.]]> 798 Dante Alighieri 0679433139 Zdenek 5 4.08 1320 The Divine Comedy: Inferno - Purgatorio - Paradiso
author: Dante Alighieri
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.08
book published: 1320
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/24
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Divina Commedia a Dante Alighieri est opus magnum, quod infernum, purgatorium et paradisum explorat. Theologiam, philosophiam et humanam emotionem arte coniungit, sapientiam moralem ac redemptionem aeternam praebens.
]]> Neuromancer (Sprawl, #1) 6088007 Neuromancer is a cyberpunk, science fiction masterpiece—a classic that ranks with 1984 and Brave New World as one of the twentieth century’s most potent visions of the future.

The Matrix is a world within the world, a global consensus-hallucination, the representation of every byte of data in cyberspace...

Henry Dorsett Case was the sharpest data-thief in the business, until vengeful former employees crippled his nervous system. But now a new and very mysterious employer recruits him for a last-chance run. The target: an unthinkably powerful artificial intelligence orbiting Earth in service of the sinister Tessier-Ashpool business clan. With a dead man riding shotgun and Molly, mirror-eyed street-samurai, to watch his back, Case embarks on an adventure that ups the ante on an entire genre of fiction.

The winner of the Hugo, Nebula, and Philip K. Dick Awards, Neuromancer was the first fully-realized glimpse of humankind’s digital future—a shocking vision that has challenged our assumptions about our technology and ourselves, reinvented the way we speak and think, and forever altered the landscape of our imaginations.]]> 288 William Gibson Zdenek 5 3.94 1984 Neuromancer (Sprawl, #1)
author: William Gibson
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1984
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/17
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> Harmonic 33 2893538 207 Bruce L. Cathie 0589000837 Zdenek 4 3.56 1977 Harmonic 33
author: Bruce L. Cathie
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.56
book published: 1977
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/23
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Harmonic 695 - The UFO and Anti-Gravity]]> 1902404
So said Captain Bruce L. Cathie, a Fokker Friendship captain flying for the National Airways Corporation of New Zealand. After he and a number of other flying enthusiasts spotted a UFO at Mangere, Auckland, Captain Cathie began to apply his professional knowledge of navigation theory to elucidate a magnetism-based "solution" to the UFO mystery.

His discovery of the magnetic grid around Earth was proven in his first book, "Harmonic 33 " (1968), which has become famous in UFO circles throughout the world. His research since its publication has led him to still more astonishing discoveries, which are detailed here in Harmonic 695: The UFO and Antigravity. Captain Cathie is married and lives with his family in Te Atatu, Auckland, NZ.

Peter Temm, M.A., has been a correspondent for newspapers like The Washington Star in the U.S., The Sunday Times in London, The Melbourne Herald in Australia, and The Auckland Star in New Zealand. He is now Consul of Information at the Australian Consulate-General in Osaka, Japan.

Temm's interest in UFOs was sparked when he began studying the "sky myths" of the Ainu people of Japan. Of his association with Bruce Cathie, Temm "He is the only independent researcher I know of who has come up with a theory, supported by numerous facts, which answers most of the questions surrounding UFOs."]]> 201 Bruce L. Cathie 0589006614 Zdenek 4 3.87 1977 Harmonic 695 - The UFO and Anti-Gravity
author: Bruce L. Cathie
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1977
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/21
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Energy Grid: Harmonic 695: The Pulse of the Universe [The Investigation into the World Energy Grid]]]> 518513 -- UFO navigation and mysterious aerials
-- Nikola Tesla's inventions
-- Pythagoras and the Grid
-- Atomic detonations and energy vortexes
-- Native American power spots and the Australian Stonehenge]]> 263 Bruce L. Cathie 0932813445 Zdenek 4 3.87 1990 The Energy Grid: Harmonic 695: The Pulse of the Universe [The Investigation into the World Energy Grid]
author: Bruce L. Cathie
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1990
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Serpent in the Sky: The High Wisdom of Ancient Egypt]]> 910226 286 John Anthony West 0835606910 Zdenek 5 4.15 1979 Serpent in the Sky: The High Wisdom of Ancient Egypt
author: John Anthony West
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1979
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/25
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: civilizations, egypt-alternative
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Psychoanalyzing the Twelve Zodiacal Types]]> 25318183 54 Manly P. Hall Zdenek 4 3.93 1955 Psychoanalyzing the Twelve Zodiacal Types
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.93
book published: 1955
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/20
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ten Basic Rules for Better Living]]> 128408327 52 Manly P. Hall Zdenek 5 4.05 1996 Ten Basic Rules for Better Living
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.05
book published: 1996
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/15
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Præcepta optima ad vitam, quæ omnes noscere debent.
]]> <![CDATA[The Secret Teachings of All Ages]]> 183683 A classic since 1928, this masterly encyclopedia of ancient mythology, ritual, symbolism, and the arcane mysteries of the ages is available for the first time in a compact "reader's edition."

Like no other book of the twentieth century, Manly P. Hall's legendary The Secret Teachings of All Ages is a codex to the ancient occult and esoteric traditions of the world. Students of hidden wisdom, ancient symbols, and arcane practices treasure Hall's magnum opus above all other works.

While many thousands of copies have sold since its initial publication in 1928, The Secret Teachings of All Ages has previously been available only in oversized, expensive editions. For the first time, Hall's celebrated classic is now published in an affordable trade paperback volume. Literally hundreds of entries shine a rare light on some of the most fascinating and closely held aspects of myth, religion, and philosophy from throughout the centuries.

More than one hundred line drawings and a sixteen-page color insert reproduce some of the finest illustrations of the original book, while reset and reformatted text makes this edition of The Secret Teachings of All Ages newly accessible to readers everywhere.]]> 768 Manly P. Hall 1585422509 Zdenek 5 4.26 1928 The Secret Teachings of All Ages
author: Manly P. Hall
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.26
book published: 1928
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/18
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Hoc est opus magnificum, quod legere omnes debent.
]]> <![CDATA[The Giza Prophecy: The Orion Code and the Secret Teachings of the Pyramids]]> 12365362
� Debunks the “pyramids as tombs� theory and shows how they are “recovery vaults� to ensure the rebirth of civilization after a global disaster

� Explains in detail how the angles and geometry of the Great Pyramid record a shift of the world’s axis in 3980 BCE and predict more to come

� Uncovers the location of an additional as-yet-undiscovered “recovery vault� on the Giza plateau, as revealed in the myth of Osiris

Offering a radical new perspective on the Great Pyramid of Giza and all the structures surrounding it, including the Sphinx, Scott Creighton and Gary Osborn show how the designers of Giza intentionally arranged these massive structures to create an astronomical timeline recording catastrophic events in the past as well as warning later generations of the precise times of future catastrophes. They reveal how the Old Kingdom pyramids of Giza were created, not as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens, but as “recovery vaults� to ensure the rebirth of the Kingdom of Egypt after a global disaster by acting as storehouses for ancient Egyptian culture--its tools, seeds, art, and sacred texts.

Through the use of photos, maps, and diagrams of the Giza plateau, the authors explain in detail how the angles and geometry of the Great Pyramid align with the stars of Orion’s Belt to encode an important message: that changes in the tilt of the world’s axis have occurred in the remote past, most recently in 3980 BCE, and will occur again in the near future. Highlighting the ubiquitous appearance of 23.5-degree angles--the most important of the precessional angles encoded in the Giza pyramids--in classic works of art, including the work of Leonardo da Vinci and portraits of John the Baptist and George Washington, the authors reveal how this angle, the Great Pyramid, and its fateful message are tied to Freemasonry and other secret societies. Concluding with the remarkable revelation triggered by the myth of Osiris that there may be an as-yet-undiscovered 14th “recovery vault� on the Giza plateau, Creighton and Osborn show that the prophecy of Giza is a message of first importance to our own civilization.]]> 352 Scott Creighton 1591431328 Zdenek 5 3.67 2012 The Giza Prophecy: The Orion Code and the Secret Teachings of the Pyramids
author: Scott Creighton
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/24
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Thrice Great Hermetica and the Janus Age: Hermetic Cosmology, Finance, Politics and Culture in the Middle Ages through the Late Renaissance]]> 21814530 354 Joseph P. Farrell 1939149339 Zdenek 5 4.03 2014 Thrice Great Hermetica and the Janus Age: Hermetic Cosmology, Finance, Politics and Culture in the Middle Ages through the Late Renaissance
author: Joseph P. Farrell
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/19
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Hidden Agenda: NASA and the Secret Space Program]]> 29737840
The book will ask and answer many questions. Was Wernher von Braun involved in the Roswell crash investigation? Why did he suddenly become fascinated with highly advanced theoretical physics propulsion systems during the Apollo years, and why did all of this public research suddenly "go black" in the early 1960s? Did NASA and the Pentagon know and expect to find evidence of alien bases on the Moon? Did the Apollo 12 astronauts deliberately damage the TV cameras in order to hide their explorations of one of these bases? What was the top secret "Chapel Bell" experiment on Apollo 16? Has teleportation been developed from captured alien technology and used to transport humans to secret NASA/DOD bases on Mars? Do space shuttle videos taken in the 1990s show proof of a highly advanced secret US space fleet? Does hacker Gary Mackinnon's discovery of defense department documents identifying "non-terrestrial officers" serving in space mean that the US has secret space platforms designed to fight a war with an alien race? And, have these secret military space platforms been photographed by civilian observers here on Earth?]]> 208 Mike Bara 1939149665 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.50 Hidden Agenda: NASA and the Secret Space Program
author: Mike Bara
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Ancient Aliens on Mars II 21814529 294 Mike Bara 1939149312 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.64 2014 Ancient Aliens on Mars II
author: Mike Bara
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ancient Aliens and Secret Societies]]> 23116807 288 Mike Bara 1939149401 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.19 2015 Ancient Aliens and Secret Societies
author: Mike Bara
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Ancient Aliens on Mars 16222509
Chapters War of the Worlds, The Mars Tidal Model, The Death of Mars, Cydonia and the Face on Mars, The Monuments of Mars, The Search for Life on Mars, The True Colors of Mars and The Pathfinder Sphinx.]]> 286 Mike Bara 1935487892 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.98 2013 Ancient Aliens on Mars
author: Mike Bara
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Ancient Aliens on the Moon 14646179
Bara discusses the popular theory that the film "2001 ―A Space Odyssey" was used as a training ground for Stanley Kubrick to develop the technology to fake the footage of the landings plus the curious mission of Apollo 17–possibly a technology salvage mission, primarily concerned with investigating an opening into a massive hexagonal ruin near the landing site. Bara details how the astronauts managed to get nearly 30 minutes of "off camera" time to investigate an entrance into the ruin and then later proceeded to a nearby crater to retrieve technological objects. He examines evidence from the Russian Zond series of lunar probes as well as the more current Clementine and Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter data, including an in-depth study of strange objects in Tycho crater. Plus a look at the current politics of the new race to return to the Moon and what hidden agenda's may be behind it. Finally, Bara looks at the various arguments that the entire Moon is an artificial object. Bara shows how the Moon would have been an ideal place for an alien species involved in genetic experimentation on Earth to have set up a base.

Includes 8-page Full-Color insert.]]> 256 Mike Bara 193548785X Zdenek 5 moon 3.69 2012 Ancient Aliens on the Moon
author: Mike Bara
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/18
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: moon
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Black Diary: M.I.B, Women in Black, Black-Eyed Children, and Dangerous Books]]> 40245114
Nick Redfern reveals the very latest information on the sinister Men in Black, the chilling Women in Black, and the creepy Black-Eyed Children. Highlights dozens of never-before-seen stories of encounters with these creatures; Nick’s own sighting of an MIB; the ability of these multi-dimensional entities to invade our space in hostile fashion; and how and why writing, reading and even thinking about them can be hazardous.

Nick Redfern is the author of more than forty books. They include Men in Black; Women in Black; The Roswell UFO Conspiracy; and 365 Days of UFOs. Nick has appeared on many TV shows, including the BBC’s Out of This World; the SyFy Channel’s Proof Positive; the History Channel’s Monster Quest, America’s Book of Secrets and UFO Hunters; the National Geographic Channel’s Paranatural; and MSNBC’s Countdown.

He can be contacted]]> 260 Nick Redfern Zdenek 0 to-read 3.92 2018 The Black Diary: M.I.B, Women in Black, Black-Eyed Children, and Dangerous Books
author: Nick Redfern
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Martians: Evidence of Life on the Red Planet]]> 52568231
The Martians is an in-depth study of the theory that Mars was once a world that teemed with life. Perhaps, even, life not too dissimilar to ours. Incredibly, the Martians may still be there. Alive.

The questions that this book asks and answers include the The Martians explores the CIA's top-secret search for the Martians, multiple photos of strange anomalies, and the latest revelations about the environment and water on Mars. And most tantalizing of Did an ailing Martian race come to Earth in past eons and were they confused with gods? The questions concerning life on Mars—then and now—are many. The answers are astounding.]]> 304 Nick Redfern 1632651769 Zdenek 0 to-read 3.23 2020 The Martians: Evidence of Life on the Red Planet
author: Nick Redfern
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.23
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The NASA Conspiracies: The Truth Behind the Moon Landings, Censored Photos & the Face on Mars]]> 9476036
But behind the open face of NASA, there is a much more mysterious world. NASA has been linked to a wealth of high-level cover-ups, ]]> 240 Nick Redfern 1601631499 Zdenek 5 3.34 2010 The NASA Conspiracies: The Truth Behind the Moon Landings, Censored Photos & the Face on Mars
author: Nick Redfern
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.34
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/24
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language]]> 35016110 117 Moustafa Gadalla Zdenek 5
"The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" is a unique and intriguing book that delves into the metaphysical aspects of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Written by Moustafa Gadalla, this book presents a thought-provoking perspective on the hidden meanings and symbolism behind the intricate hieroglyphic script.

One of the standout features of this book is its in-depth exploration of the metaphysical and symbolic meanings associated with hieroglyphs. Gadalla goes beyond the traditional understanding of hieroglyphs as a form of writing, and delves into the spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical aspects of these ancient symbols. He discusses how hieroglyphs were used not only as a means of communication but also as a form of sacred language that conveyed deeper meanings and concepts related to the ancient Egyptian worldview.

Another notable aspect of this book is its thorough research and scholarly approach. Gadalla draws on a wide range of sources, including ancient Egyptian texts, inscriptions, and monuments, as well as comparative studies with other ancient civilizations, to support his interpretations and insights. He presents a compelling case for the metaphysical significance of hieroglyphs, backed up by his extensive knowledge of Egyptian history, culture, and spirituality.

The book also includes practical exercises and techniques for readers to explore and experience the metaphysical aspects of hieroglyphs. Gadalla provides step-by-step instructions on how to meditate on hieroglyphs, use them for divination, and tap into their energy for personal growth and transformation. These practical applications add a unique and experiential aspect to the book, allowing readers to actively engage with the material and apply it to their own spiritual practices.

However, it's worth noting that "The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" may not be suitable for readers who are looking for a strictly academic or historical analysis of hieroglyphs. The book takes a metaphysical and esoteric approach, which may not align with everyone's beliefs or expectations. Additionally, some readers may find the content to be complex and challenging, as it delves into abstract concepts and requires an open mind to fully grasp the author's interpretations.

In conclusion, "The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" is a thought-provoking and unique exploration of the metaphysical aspects of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Moustafa Gadalla's in-depth research, scholarly approach, and practical applications make this book a fascinating read for those interested in the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of hieroglyphs and ancient Egyptian culture.]]> 4.50 2016 The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language
author: Moustafa Gadalla
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/28
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
"The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" by Moustafa Gadalla

"The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" is a unique and intriguing book that delves into the metaphysical aspects of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Written by Moustafa Gadalla, this book presents a thought-provoking perspective on the hidden meanings and symbolism behind the intricate hieroglyphic script.

One of the standout features of this book is its in-depth exploration of the metaphysical and symbolic meanings associated with hieroglyphs. Gadalla goes beyond the traditional understanding of hieroglyphs as a form of writing, and delves into the spiritual, philosophical, and metaphysical aspects of these ancient symbols. He discusses how hieroglyphs were used not only as a means of communication but also as a form of sacred language that conveyed deeper meanings and concepts related to the ancient Egyptian worldview.

Another notable aspect of this book is its thorough research and scholarly approach. Gadalla draws on a wide range of sources, including ancient Egyptian texts, inscriptions, and monuments, as well as comparative studies with other ancient civilizations, to support his interpretations and insights. He presents a compelling case for the metaphysical significance of hieroglyphs, backed up by his extensive knowledge of Egyptian history, culture, and spirituality.

The book also includes practical exercises and techniques for readers to explore and experience the metaphysical aspects of hieroglyphs. Gadalla provides step-by-step instructions on how to meditate on hieroglyphs, use them for divination, and tap into their energy for personal growth and transformation. These practical applications add a unique and experiential aspect to the book, allowing readers to actively engage with the material and apply it to their own spiritual practices.

However, it's worth noting that "The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" may not be suitable for readers who are looking for a strictly academic or historical analysis of hieroglyphs. The book takes a metaphysical and esoteric approach, which may not align with everyone's beliefs or expectations. Additionally, some readers may find the content to be complex and challenging, as it delves into abstract concepts and requires an open mind to fully grasp the author's interpretations.

In conclusion, "The Egyptian Hieroglyph Metaphysical Language" is a thought-provoking and unique exploration of the metaphysical aspects of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Moustafa Gadalla's in-depth research, scholarly approach, and practical applications make this book a fascinating read for those interested in the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of hieroglyphs and ancient Egyptian culture.
]]> <![CDATA[Egyptian Divinities: The All Who are the One]]> 865576 127 Moustafa Gadalla 1931446040 Zdenek 5
In "Egyptian Divinities: The All Who Are the One," Moustafa Gadalla provides a captivating exploration of the ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses, shedding light on their significance and symbolism within the Egyptian pantheon. This book offers a unique perspective on the complex world of Egyptian mythology and spirituality, drawing on Gadalla's deep understanding of Egyptian history and culture.

One of the notable strengths of this book is its thorough and organized presentation of the Egyptian deities. Gadalla provides detailed information on various gods and goddesses, including their attributes, roles, and relationships with each other. He delves into their origins, myths, and symbolism, offering insights into their significance in the Egyptian belief system.

What sets this book apart is Gadalla's approach to the Egyptian gods and goddesses as aspects of the One Divine Essence. He presents the concept of the "All Who Are the One," which underscores the ancient Egyptian belief in the interconnectedness and unity of all divine beings. He discusses how each deity represents a specific aspect of the Divine and how they are all interconnected and interdependent in the Egyptian cosmology. This perspective adds a unique and thought-provoking dimension to the understanding of Egyptian mythology and spirituality.

Gadalla's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts understandable to readers with various levels of familiarity with Egyptian mythology. He provides ample references to ancient Egyptian texts and inscriptions, as well as comparative studies with other cultures, to support his interpretations and insights. The book is well-structured, with clear headings and subheadings, making it easy to navigate and reference.

In addition to the comprehensive information on the Egyptian deities, Gadalla also includes practical exercises and rituals for readers to connect with and work with the energies of the gods and goddesses. He provides instructions for invocations, meditations, and rituals that readers can incorporate into their own spiritual practices, adding a practical and experiential dimension to the book.

It's worth noting that this book may not be suitable for readers who are looking for a purely historical or academic analysis of Egyptian mythology. Gadalla's approach is metaphysical and philosophical, focusing on the deeper symbolism and significance of the deities rather than the historical narratives. Some readers may also find the book challenging, as it delves into abstract concepts and requires an open mind to fully grasp the author's interpretations.

In conclusion, "Egyptian Divinities: The All Who Are the One" is a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the Egyptian gods and goddesses from a metaphysical perspective. Moustafa Gadalla's deep understanding of Egyptian culture, his unique perspective on the interconnectedness of the deities, and his practical applications make this book a valuable resource for those interested in Egyptian mythology, spirituality, and metaphysics.]]> 4.47 2001 Egyptian Divinities: The All Who are the One
author: Moustafa Gadalla
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2001
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/09
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
"Egyptian Divinities: The All Who Are the One" by Moustafa Gadalla

In "Egyptian Divinities: The All Who Are the One," Moustafa Gadalla provides a captivating exploration of the ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses, shedding light on their significance and symbolism within the Egyptian pantheon. This book offers a unique perspective on the complex world of Egyptian mythology and spirituality, drawing on Gadalla's deep understanding of Egyptian history and culture.

One of the notable strengths of this book is its thorough and organized presentation of the Egyptian deities. Gadalla provides detailed information on various gods and goddesses, including their attributes, roles, and relationships with each other. He delves into their origins, myths, and symbolism, offering insights into their significance in the Egyptian belief system.

What sets this book apart is Gadalla's approach to the Egyptian gods and goddesses as aspects of the One Divine Essence. He presents the concept of the "All Who Are the One," which underscores the ancient Egyptian belief in the interconnectedness and unity of all divine beings. He discusses how each deity represents a specific aspect of the Divine and how they are all interconnected and interdependent in the Egyptian cosmology. This perspective adds a unique and thought-provoking dimension to the understanding of Egyptian mythology and spirituality.

Gadalla's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts understandable to readers with various levels of familiarity with Egyptian mythology. He provides ample references to ancient Egyptian texts and inscriptions, as well as comparative studies with other cultures, to support his interpretations and insights. The book is well-structured, with clear headings and subheadings, making it easy to navigate and reference.

In addition to the comprehensive information on the Egyptian deities, Gadalla also includes practical exercises and rituals for readers to connect with and work with the energies of the gods and goddesses. He provides instructions for invocations, meditations, and rituals that readers can incorporate into their own spiritual practices, adding a practical and experiential dimension to the book.

It's worth noting that this book may not be suitable for readers who are looking for a purely historical or academic analysis of Egyptian mythology. Gadalla's approach is metaphysical and philosophical, focusing on the deeper symbolism and significance of the deities rather than the historical narratives. Some readers may also find the book challenging, as it delves into abstract concepts and requires an open mind to fully grasp the author's interpretations.

In conclusion, "Egyptian Divinities: The All Who Are the One" is a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the Egyptian gods and goddesses from a metaphysical perspective. Moustafa Gadalla's deep understanding of Egyptian culture, his unique perspective on the interconnectedness of the deities, and his practical applications make this book a valuable resource for those interested in Egyptian mythology, spirituality, and metaphysics.
]]> <![CDATA[The Ancient Egyptian Roots of Christianity]]> 2283962 191 Moustafa Gadalla 1931446296 Zdenek 5 4.33 2016 The Ancient Egyptian Roots of Christianity
author: Moustafa Gadalla
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/16
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> Isis The Divine Female 33553408
There are 2 available options: concise ($3.99) and expanded ($5.99).
The book is available in three format -- pdf,ePub and MOBI

You can find more information from our secure site @ ]]> 192 Moustafa Gadalla Zdenek 5 scribd 3.79 2016 Isis The Divine Female
author: Moustafa Gadalla
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/09
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: scribd
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Secret Life of Plants: A Fascinating Account of the Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Relations Between Plants and Man]]> 99442 The Secret Life of Plants includes remarkable information about plants as lie detectors and plants as ecological sentinels; it describes their ability to adapt to human wishes, their response to music, their curative powers, and their ability to communicate with man. Authors Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird suggest that the most far-reaching revolution of the 20th century � one that could save or destroy the planet � may come from the bottom of your garden.]]> 402 Peter Tompkins 0060915870 Zdenek 5 nature, bilology
Key themes include the interconnectedness of all life forms, the intelligence and sensitivity of plants, and the potential for a deeper, more spiritual relationship between humans and nature. The book also highlights the importance of nurturing and respecting the natural world, promoting a holistic view of the environment.

I was able to learn about the surprising abilities of plants, such as their reaction to music and their role in lie-detection experiments. The book also encourages a more empathetic and respectful approach to nature, suggesting that plants are more than just passive organisms.

"The Secret Life of Plants" is an eye-opening read that challenges conventional views of plant life. Tompkins and Bird offer a compelling case for the sentience of plants and the profound connections between all living things. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in botany, environmental science, or the mystical aspects of nature.]]> 3.99 1973 The Secret Life of Plants: A Fascinating Account of the Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Relations Between Plants and Man
author: Peter Tompkins
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1973
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/21
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: nature, bilology
review:
"The Secret Life of Plants" by Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird is a groundbreaking exploration into the unseen world of plants and their interactions with humans. This book has captivated readers since its publication in 1973, revealing astonishing findings about plant sentience and communication.

Key themes include the interconnectedness of all life forms, the intelligence and sensitivity of plants, and the potential for a deeper, more spiritual relationship between humans and nature. The book also highlights the importance of nurturing and respecting the natural world, promoting a holistic view of the environment.

I was able to learn about the surprising abilities of plants, such as their reaction to music and their role in lie-detection experiments. The book also encourages a more empathetic and respectful approach to nature, suggesting that plants are more than just passive organisms.

"The Secret Life of Plants" is an eye-opening read that challenges conventional views of plant life. Tompkins and Bird offer a compelling case for the sentience of plants and the profound connections between all living things. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in botany, environmental science, or the mystical aspects of nature.
]]> Man and His Symbols 123632 Man and His Symbols owes its existence to one of Jung's own dreams. The great psychologist dreamed that his work was understood by a wide public, rather than just by psychiatrists, and therefore he agreed to write and edit this fascinating book. Here, Jung examines the full world of the unconscious, whose language he believed to be the symbols constantly revealed in dreams. Convinced that dreams offer practical advice, sent from the unconscious to the conscious self, Jung felt that self-understanding would lead to a full and productive life. Thus, the reader will gain new insights into himself from this thoughtful volume, which also illustrates symbols throughout history. Completed just before his death by Jung and his associates, it is clearly addressed to the general reader.]]> 415 C.G. Jung 0440351839 Zdenek 5
Jung brilliantly explains how symbols, archetypes, and dreams are not just random images but powerful keys to understanding ourselves and the collective human experience. The clarity and accessibility of his writing make complex psychological concepts relatable and engaging, even for readers unfamiliar with his work.

This book is more than an exploration of symbols—it’s a guide to self-discovery. It inspires reflection and a deeper connection to the inner workings of the mind. Jung’s ability to articulate the universal truths hidden within myths, dreams, and cultural symbols is nothing short of extraordinary.

A timeless classic, Man and His Symbols is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock the mysteries of the psyche and embrace a richer understanding of life. C.G. Jung was truly a great mind and a great human being, and this work is a testament to his genius. Highly recommended!]]> 4.19 1964 Man and His Symbols
author: C.G. Jung
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.19
book published: 1964
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/23
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Man and His Symbols is a deeply insightful and thought-provoking masterpiece that delves into the profound language of the unconscious mind. C.G. Jung’s wisdom and vast practical experience as a psychologist shine on every page, making this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding the deeper layers of human existence.

Jung brilliantly explains how symbols, archetypes, and dreams are not just random images but powerful keys to understanding ourselves and the collective human experience. The clarity and accessibility of his writing make complex psychological concepts relatable and engaging, even for readers unfamiliar with his work.

This book is more than an exploration of symbols—it’s a guide to self-discovery. It inspires reflection and a deeper connection to the inner workings of the mind. Jung’s ability to articulate the universal truths hidden within myths, dreams, and cultural symbols is nothing short of extraordinary.

A timeless classic, Man and His Symbols is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock the mysteries of the psyche and embrace a richer understanding of life. C.G. Jung was truly a great mind and a great human being, and this work is a testament to his genius. Highly recommended!
]]> <![CDATA[Digital Intelligence: A framework to digital transformation capabilities]]> 52902536 Based on my architectural thought leadership on various digital transformation and modernisation engagements, with the accumulated wealth of knowledge and skills, I want to share these learnings in a concise book hoping to add value by contributing to the broader digital community and the progressing initiatives.
Rest assured, this is not a theory or an academic book. It is purely practical and based on lessons learned from real enterprise transformation and modernisation initiatives taken in large corporate environments.
I made every effort to make this book concise, uncluttered, and easy-to-read by removing technical jargons for a broader audience who want to enhance digital intelligence and awareness.
Upfront, this book is not about a tool, application, a single product, specific technology, or service, and certainly not to endorse any of these items. However, this book focuses on architectural thinking and methodical approach to improve digital intelligence and awareness. It is not like typical digital transformation books available on the market. In this book, I do not cover and repeat the same content of those books describing digital transformations. My purpose is different.
What distinguishes this book from other books is that I provide an innovative thinking framework and a methodical approach to increase your digital quotient based on experience, aiming not to sell or endorse any products or services even though I mention some prominent technologies which enable digital transformation, for your digital awareness, intelligence, and capabilities.
]]> 183 Mehmet Yildiz Zdenek 4 4.80 Digital Intelligence: A framework to digital transformation capabilities
author: Mehmet Yildiz
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.80
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/18
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Short Biography of John Wesley]]> 18084997 27 J.C. Ryle Zdenek 4 3.55 2013 A Short Biography of John Wesley
author: J.C. Ryle
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/24
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Secret History of the American Empire: Economic Hit Men, Jackals & the Truth about Global Corruption]]> 61117 384 John Perkins 052595015X Zdenek 5 3.86 2007 The Secret History of the American Empire: Economic Hit Men, Jackals & the Truth about Global Corruption
author: John Perkins
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/16
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
The Secret History of the American Empire: Economic Hit Men, Jackals & the Truth is a book I’ve now read twice, and for good reason. It’s always valuable to revisit history that isn’t widely known or acknowledged. This book sheds light on the hidden mechanisms of global power and influence, offering insights that challenge the mainstream narrative. Each reading brings new understanding, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper grasp of the forces shaping our world. Highly recommended!
]]> <![CDATA[Agile Business Architecture for Digital Transformation: Architectural Leadership for Competitive Business Value]]> 49248620 In this book, I attempt to share my knowledge and experience using a rigorous yet agile architectural method. My aim is to add accelerated value to the broader business architecture and digital transformation communities by focusing on the practical aspect with minimal emphasis on the theoretical aspect.
The content in this book is based on my architectural thought leadership experience gained in multiple large business and enterprise architecture initiatives, focusing on business capabilities, digital transformation initiatives, and enterprise modernisation engagements, reflecting hard lessons learned in these applied settings.
In this book I attempt to redefine the role of business architects as primary leaders for digital transformation programs. The content reflects my experience and observations from the field. As a caveat, this book is not based on theories in the traditional business architecture textbooks which may conflict with my experience. My beta readers found this as a unique guide reflecting reality from the field. Hope it adds new insights for your role in the business digital transformation initiatives.]]> 214 Mehmet Yildiz Zdenek 4 4.33 Agile Business Architecture for Digital Transformation: Architectural Leadership for Competitive Business Value
author: Mehmet Yildiz
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/14
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Digital Supply Networks: Transform Your Supply Chain and Gain Competitive Advantage with Disruptive Technology and Reimagined Processes]]> 49049338
Digital tech has disrupted life and business as we know it, and supply chain management is no exception. But how exactly does digital transformation affect your business? What are the breakthrough technologies and their capabilities you need to know about? How will digital transformation impact skills requirements and work in general? Do you need to completely revamp your understanding of supply chain management? And most How do you get started?

Digital Supply Networks provides clear answers to these and many other questions. Written by an experienced team comprised of Deloitte consultants and leading problem-driven scholars from a premier research university, this expert guide leads you through the process of improving operations building supply networks, increasing revenue, reimagining business models, and providing added value to customers, stakeholders, and society. You’ll learn everything you need to know
Drawing from real world-experience and problem-driven academic research, the authors provide an in-depth account of the transformation to digitally connected supply networks. They discuss the limitations of traditional supply chains and the underlying capabilities and potential of digitally-enabled supply flows. The chapters burst with expert insights and real-life use cases grounded in tomorrow’s industry needs.

Success in today’s hyper-competitive, fast-paced business landscape, characterized by the risk of black swan events, such as the 2020 COVID-19 global pandemic, requires the reimagination and the digitalization of complex demand-supply systems, more collaborative and connected processes, and smarter, more dynamic data-driven decision making―which can only be achieved through a fully integrated Digital Supply Network.]]> 320 Amit Sinha 1260458199 Zdenek 4 3.67 Digital Supply Networks: Transform Your Supply Chain and Gain Competitive Advantage with Disruptive Technology and Reimagined Processes
author: Amit Sinha
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.67
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/13
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Digital Transformation: Build Your Organization's Future for the Innovation Age]]> 36453617 One book for the entire How to digitally transform your organization Innovation in the face of major external change is critical for any organization's success, but attempting to do so often leads to more questions than Where do you start? How do you get the right resources? How should work be implemented? What data should you measure? For the first time, these questions are answered in a single book that covers the end-to-end execution of digital transformation � from leadership-level strategy, to on-the-ground team implementation. With the biggest revelation of all, Herbert argues, being that true digital transformation only needs to happen once because, at its core, it means becoming more adaptive to change itself.Featuring the 'how to' of digital transformation devised from successes across every sector, Herbert distils it into five actionable stages. These stages act as a repeatable framework for continual innovation, allowing you to produce results immediately and grow change incrementally across your organization. In Digital Transformation, Herbert draws on her own experiences in leading change and innovation programmes globally, as well as featuring insights from experts and leaders from organizations as diverse as the World Wildlife Fund, Morgan Stanley, Royal Caribbean Cruises, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, the Rijksmuseum, the American Cancer Society, The Guardian, Harvard University, and many others.]]> 265 Lindsay Herbert Zdenek 4 3.82 Digital Transformation: Build Your Organization's Future for the Innovation Age
author: Lindsay Herbert
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.82
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/12
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[How to Create Innovation: The Ultimate Guide to Proven Strategies and Business Models to Drive Innovation and Digital Transformation]]> 62334026
Each of the models presented in the book were developed under the Understanding and Navigating Innovation and Transformation in Enterprises (UNITE) umbrella—a business and innovation strategy that reminds us that when we UNITE, we are greater than the sum of our parts.

How to Create Innovation is unique in its scope and comprehensiveness:

Over 400 pages of content make it one of the world’s most-complete leadership books.
The only end2end book on innovation and digital transformation.
Moves business management from concept to action
Frames thinking strategically to power execution
Over 50 ready-to-use tools, models, and canvases
95 compelling illustrations to connect the dots
FREE access to over 50 complimentary download packages covering the details and helpful background information
Ready foryour workshops, with questions and background commentary
Co-authored by over 60 international thought leaders
In use by some of the industry’s best digital transformation programs
Extensively tried and tested

Who needs How to Create Innovation? Everyone who wants to:

Uncover Opportunities: Be ready for success by finding the right niche.
Successfully Drive Innovation: You’re ready to start innovating and transforming your business.
Go From Whiteboard to Reality: Every good business or product starts with a plan and a solid strategy. Get yours!
Lead Culture Change: Avoid the most common reason for failure.
Design Winning Business Models: Use business model innovation to grow your company.
Succeed With Your Digital Transformation: Understand the what, where, and how of innovation.

This book is practically 20 books in one. Fully supported with all the tools, models, canvases, and frameworks you need to identify opportunities with near certainty and deliver to your expectations. It is tried and tested, holistic and end-to-end, covering everything you need in a business leadership book.]]> 576 Stefan F. Dieffenbacher 3952568716 Zdenek 4 iot 4.31 How to Create Innovation: The Ultimate Guide to Proven Strategies and Business Models to Drive Innovation and Digital Transformation
author: Stefan F. Dieffenbacher
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/10
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: iot
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Practical Guide for IoT Solution Architects: Architecting secure, agile, economical, highly available, well performing IoT ecosystems]]> 50855069 192 Mehmet Yildiz 1080722963 Zdenek 5 iot 4.50 A Practical Guide for IoT Solution Architects: Architecting secure, agile, economical, highly available, well performing IoT ecosystems
author: Mehmet Yildiz
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/11
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: iot
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Industry 4.0: Managing The Digital Transformation (Springer Series in Advanced Manufacturing)]]> 34923091 304 Ustundag 3319578693 Zdenek 5 digital-transformation
One of the strengths of the book is its clear and systematic approach to understanding Industry 4.0. Ustundag provides a thorough overview of the fundamental concepts, technologies, and trends associated with Industry 4.0, including the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and cyber-physical systems. He explains how these technologies are transforming traditional industries, and discusses the potential benefits and risks of the digital transformation.

Furthermore, Ustundag offers practical guidance on how organizations can effectively manage the digital transformation process. He provides a strategic framework for organizations to assess their readiness for Industry 4.0, identify potential disruptions and opportunities, and develop effective strategies to adapt and thrive in the digital era. He also discusses the importance of leadership, organizational culture, and talent management in driving successful digital transformation initiatives.

The book is well-researched and provides numerous real-world examples, case studies, and practical tools to help readers understand and apply the concepts of Industry 4.0 in their own organizations. Ustundag's writing style is clear and concise, making complex concepts accessible to readers with varying levels of background knowledge in technology or business.

Another notable aspect of the book is its forward-looking perspective. Ustundag discusses the potential future developments and implications of Industry 4.0, including the impact on jobs, society, and global economy. He encourages organizations to be proactive and adaptive in preparing for the evolving digital landscape, and provides insights on how to stay ahead of the curve in the fast-changing business environment.

However, one potential limitation of the book is its focus on the strategic and managerial aspects of Industry 4.0, with limited technical details. Readers looking for in-depth technical discussions or implementation guidance may find this book less suitable for their needs.

In conclusion, "Industry 4.0: Managing The Digital Transformation" is a valuable and comprehensive book that provides a strategic and practical approach to understanding and managing the digital transformation in the context of Industry 4.0. Ustundag's clear writing style, well-researched insights, and forward-looking perspective make this book a recommended read for business leaders, managers, and professionals seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.]]> 4.43 Industry 4.0: Managing The Digital Transformation (Springer Series in Advanced Manufacturing)
author: Ustundag
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.43
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/17
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: digital-transformation
review:
"Industry 4.0: Managing The Digital Transformation" by Alp Ustundag is an insightful and comprehensive book that explores the concept of Industry 4.0 and its implications for businesses and industries in the digital age. Ustundag, a renowned expert in the field of digital transformation and innovation, presents a practical and strategic approach for organizations to navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0.

One of the strengths of the book is its clear and systematic approach to understanding Industry 4.0. Ustundag provides a thorough overview of the fundamental concepts, technologies, and trends associated with Industry 4.0, including the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and cyber-physical systems. He explains how these technologies are transforming traditional industries, and discusses the potential benefits and risks of the digital transformation.

Furthermore, Ustundag offers practical guidance on how organizations can effectively manage the digital transformation process. He provides a strategic framework for organizations to assess their readiness for Industry 4.0, identify potential disruptions and opportunities, and develop effective strategies to adapt and thrive in the digital era. He also discusses the importance of leadership, organizational culture, and talent management in driving successful digital transformation initiatives.

The book is well-researched and provides numerous real-world examples, case studies, and practical tools to help readers understand and apply the concepts of Industry 4.0 in their own organizations. Ustundag's writing style is clear and concise, making complex concepts accessible to readers with varying levels of background knowledge in technology or business.

Another notable aspect of the book is its forward-looking perspective. Ustundag discusses the potential future developments and implications of Industry 4.0, including the impact on jobs, society, and global economy. He encourages organizations to be proactive and adaptive in preparing for the evolving digital landscape, and provides insights on how to stay ahead of the curve in the fast-changing business environment.

However, one potential limitation of the book is its focus on the strategic and managerial aspects of Industry 4.0, with limited technical details. Readers looking for in-depth technical discussions or implementation guidance may find this book less suitable for their needs.

In conclusion, "Industry 4.0: Managing The Digital Transformation" is a valuable and comprehensive book that provides a strategic and practical approach to understanding and managing the digital transformation in the context of Industry 4.0. Ustundag's clear writing style, well-researched insights, and forward-looking perspective make this book a recommended read for business leaders, managers, and professionals seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
]]> <![CDATA[Agile Transformation: Structures, Processes and Mindsets for the Digital Age]]> 43289644
Traditional organizational structures and cultures are no longer fit for purpose in a digitally empowered world. The number of new and disruptive technologies is increasing, the speed of change shows no sign of slowing down and business leaders and organization development practitioners need to act urgently to enable their companies to succeed in the digital age.

Agile Transformation is the much-needed guide to achieving this success. Packed full of practical advice, this book covers why new operating models are needed, how to apply agile principles at scale, leveraging digital-native processes and why change managers need to think big but start small.

Agile Transformation also looks at how to build and engage high-performing teams for change, how to tackle the employee mindset that can hinder agile adoption and why developing an agile business is not a reason to fail to plan.

There is also guidance on how to develop fast and focused high-velocity decision making, build momentum for change, and ensure that leadership behaviours and organizational culture catalyze true organizational agility. Featuring case studies from organizations including Amazon, Netflix and Vodafone, this book is crucial reading for businesses wanting to effectively compete in the new world of work.]]> 280 Neil Perkin 0749497475 Zdenek 5
The author begins by outlining the need for agile transformation in today's fast-paced and rapidly changing business environment. He then goes on to explain the key principles of agile methodologies, including iterative development, continuous improvement, and customer-centricity.

The book is divided into three main parts. The first part focuses on the structures and processes required for successful agile transformation, including agile team structures, agile project management, and agile governance.

The second part focuses on the key mindset shifts required for successful agile transformation, including a focus on experimentation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

The third and final part provides practical guidance for implementing agile transformation, including advice on how to build an agile culture, how to manage agile teams, and how to measure the success of agile projects.

Throughout the book, the author provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the benefits of agile transformation and to help readers understand how to apply agile methodologies in their own organizations.

Overall, "Agile Transformation" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to implement agile methodologies in the digital age. The book is well-written, highly informative, and provides valuable insights into the principles, practices, and mindset shifts required for successful agile transformation. Highly recommended.]]> 4.24 Agile Transformation: Structures, Processes and Mindsets for the Digital Age
author: Neil Perkin
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.24
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/30
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
"Agile Transformation: Structures, Processes and Mindsets for the Digital Age" by Neil Perkin is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the principles and practices of agile transformation. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, frameworks, and best practices for implementing agile methodologies in the digital age.

The author begins by outlining the need for agile transformation in today's fast-paced and rapidly changing business environment. He then goes on to explain the key principles of agile methodologies, including iterative development, continuous improvement, and customer-centricity.

The book is divided into three main parts. The first part focuses on the structures and processes required for successful agile transformation, including agile team structures, agile project management, and agile governance.

The second part focuses on the key mindset shifts required for successful agile transformation, including a focus on experimentation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

The third and final part provides practical guidance for implementing agile transformation, including advice on how to build an agile culture, how to manage agile teams, and how to measure the success of agile projects.

Throughout the book, the author provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the benefits of agile transformation and to help readers understand how to apply agile methodologies in their own organizations.

Overall, "Agile Transformation" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to implement agile methodologies in the digital age. The book is well-written, highly informative, and provides valuable insights into the principles, practices, and mindset shifts required for successful agile transformation. Highly recommended.
]]> <![CDATA[The Science of the Dogon: Decoding the African Mystery Tradition]]> 828750
� Reveals striking similarities between Dogon symbols and those used in both the Egyptian and Hebrew religions

� Demonstrates the parallels between Dogon mythical narratives and scientific concepts from atomic theory to quantum theory and string theory

The Dogon people of Mali, West Africa, are famous for their unique art and advanced cosmology. The Dogon’s creation story describes how the one true god, Amma, created all the matter of the universe. Interestingly, the myths that depict his creative efforts bear a striking resemblance to the modern scientific definitions of matter, beginning with the atom and continuing all the way to the vibrating threads of string theory. Furthermore, many of the Dogon words, symbols, and rituals used to describe the structure of matter are quite similar to those found in the myths of ancient Egypt and in the daily rituals of Judaism. For example, the modern scientific depiction of the informed universe as a black hole is identical to Amma’s Egg of the Dogon and the Egyptian Benben Stone.

The Science of the Dogon offers a case-by-case comparison of Dogon descriptions and drawings to corresponding scientific definitions and diagrams from authors like Stephen Hawking and Brian Greene, then extends this analysis to the counterparts of these symbols in both the ancient Egyptian and Hebrew religions. What is ultimately revealed is the scientific basis for the language of the Egyptian hieroglyphs, which was deliberately encoded to prevent the knowledge of these concepts from falling into the hands of all but the highest members of the Egyptian priesthood. The Science of the Dogon also offers compelling new interpretations for many of the most familiar Egyptian symbols, such as the pyramid and the scarab, and presents new explanations for the origins of religiously charged words such as Jehovah and Satan.]]> 224 Laird Scranton 1594771332 Zdenek 5 civilizations 4.03 2002 The Science of the Dogon: Decoding the African Mystery Tradition
author: Laird Scranton
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/10
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: civilizations
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Cydonia: The Secret Chronicles of Mars]]> 4268661 260 David E. Flynn 0972134719 Zdenek 5 4.30 2002 Cydonia: The Secret Chronicles of Mars
author: David E. Flynn
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/12
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Killing the Planet: How a Financial Cartel Doomed Mankind]]> 48722954 Killing the Planet: How A Financial Cartel Doomed Mankind best-selling authors Rodney Howard-Browne and Paul L. Williams investigate the true motives and consequences of the Pilgrim Society. Early members of the Society included J. P. Morgan Andrew Carnegie Andrew Mellon Cornelius Vanderbilt Paul Warburg Mortimer I. Schiff Otto Kahn and John D. Rockefeller. Although the Pilgrim Society and the powerful men involved are often praised for their philanthropic actions Howard-Browne and Williams show that the Society was self-serving and subjected the American people to a brutal system of economic tyranny one which is still in place today. As a sequel to The Killing of Uncle Sam Killing the Planet is a thoroughly documented and impeccably researched book with over 1 500 footnotes. It shows how mankind has become enslaved within the Luciferian world system that is managed and controlled by the world's wealthiest families. The book is not full of conspiracy theories but instead unfortunately for all of humanity full of gut-wrenching facts.]]> 574 Rodney Howard-Browne 1645720012 Zdenek 4 christian 4.10 2019 Killing the Planet: How a Financial Cartel Doomed Mankind
author: Rodney Howard-Browne
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/10
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: christian
review:
Killing the Planet: How a Financial Cartel Doomed Mankind by Rodney Howard-Browne comes across as though the authors have just "discovered America" with its revelations. However, this might be expected within certain charismatic circles, where uncovering truths that many have long recognized often feels like groundbreaking insight. While the book presents critical perspectives on financial and global systems, its impact might vary depending on the reader's familiarity with these concepts. For those new to the subject, it could be an eye-opener; for others, it may feel like revisiting well-trodden ground. Still, it offers a valuable reminder of the issues at hand.
]]> <![CDATA[The Killing of Uncle Sam : The Demise of the United States of America]]> 40134685

This book captures details of the last 200 years of American history that mainstream media does not want you to know. It dissects the ?legalized? system of the private central banks that has gone unchecked, and delivers gut-wrenching truths about the real domestic and foreign enemies of the United States. With over 1000 footnotes and quotes from former presidents, prime ministers, and state officials, it will equip you with the facts that the elites have covered up for centuries and empower you to stand up for the truth.]]> 646 Rodney Howard-Browne 1642553573 Zdenek 5 4.37 2018 The Killing of Uncle Sam : The Demise of the United States of America
author: Rodney Howard-Browne
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/09
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Grid of the Gods: The Aftermath of the Cosmic War and the Physics of the Pyramid Peoples]]> 11175865 Join popular Oxford-educated researcher Dr. Joseph P. Farrell and fellow Oxford-educated scholar Dr. Scott D. de Hart as they take you on an alarming and breath-taking ride through ancient sites, secret and advanced technologies, and explore the topological metaphors behind the physics of the "pyramid peoples." As always, with Farrell and contributing author de Hart, painstaking research leads to fresh and astonishing conclusions. Topics *Alchemical Cosmology and Quantum Mechanics in Stone*Paradoxes at Pumu Punku*Anomalies at the Temples of Angkor*Mesopotamian Pyramid Peoples*Grid Geopolitical Geomancy*The Ancient Prime Giza*Divination, Animation, Healing, and Numerical Traditions*Transmitters, Temples, and Nazis*The Master Plan of a Hidden Elite]]> 436 Joseph P. Farrell 1935487396 Zdenek 5 4.15 2011 The Grid of the Gods: The Aftermath of the Cosmic War and the Physics of the Pyramid Peoples
author: Joseph P. Farrell
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/25
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
he Grid of the Gods: The Aftermath of the Cosmic War and the Physics of the Pyramid Peoples by Joseph P. Farrell is an exceptional book that challenges the reader to think deeply on every page. Farrell masterfully reveals connections and insights that are not immediately apparent, making this a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating read. It’s a compelling and provocative exploration of ancient mysteries and advanced physics, offering perspectives that captivate and inspire. Highly recommended for anyone eager to delve into the hidden connections of history and science.
]]> The Cosmic Serpent 206946 299 Victor Clube 0876633793 Zdenek 4 Very interesting book. 4.28 1982 The Cosmic Serpent
author: Victor Clube
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1982
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/11
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Very interesting book.
]]> Moon, Myths and Man 3566058
"... considers the Moon to be a metallo-mineral body covered with a sphere of ice... captured out of transterrestrial space where, probably not so very long ago, it existed as an independent planet ...".]]> H.S. Bellamy Zdenek 5 3.83 1936 Moon, Myths and Man
author: H.S. Bellamy
name: Zdenek
average rating: 3.83
book published: 1936
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/25
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Solaria Binaria: Origins and History of the Solar System]]> 39380375 288 Alfred De Grazia 1603770968 Zdenek 5
This book combines scientific rigor with creative thinking, making it an intriguing read for anyone interested in alternative cosmology and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding our universe. A must-read for those open to questioning mainstream theories and exploring unconventional ideas. Highly recommended!]]> 4.75 Solaria Binaria: Origins and History of the Solar System
author: Alfred De Grazia
name: Zdenek
average rating: 4.75
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/23
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:
Solaria Binaria: Origins and History of the Solar System by Alfred De Grazia and Earl R. Milton is a groundbreaking exploration of an alternative perspective on the formation and evolution of the solar system. The authors present a thought-provoking hypothesis that our solar system may have originated as a binary star system, with unique insights into celestial mechanics, planetary formation, and ancient mythology.

This book combines scientific rigor with creative thinking, making it an intriguing read for anyone interested in alternative cosmology and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding our universe. A must-read for those open to questioning mainstream theories and exploring unconventional ideas. Highly recommended!
]]> <![CDATA[Manilius: Astronomica (Loeb Classical Library No. 469) (English and Latin Edition) by Manilius published by Harvard University Press (1977)]]> 129496539 0 Marcus Manilius Zdenek 5 5.00 1942 Manilius: Astronomica (Loeb Classical Library No. 469) (English and Latin Edition) by Manilius published by Harvard University Press (1977)
author: Marcus Manilius
name: Zdenek
average rating: 5.00
book published: 1942
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/04
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves:
review:

]]>