very good argument for regulations NOW
346753
I'd rate this 5 stars because I couldn't put it down.  Overall, I'd probably go with 4.  Database Nation is a very good set of arguments for privacy laws and regulations.
Most of what Mr. Garfinkle talks about is not new, although he does a great job of going into detail about why any individual type of invasion of privacy should worry you.  The biggest single worry in my mind was the chapter on medical records and the things that are happening behind your back that you will never be told about with respect to insurance companies, your hospital records, and the access to them.
It's not that any one thing is probably that big of an issue.  It's that it's all tied together --  and your entire life is on display.  It's chilling when looked at as a whole.  This isn't a handbook on how to hide.  But Garfinkle sets a mood and frame of mind that will certainly make you aware of how information about you gets out there, and does give some suggestions on how to limit that flow.  He raises many questions about the balance of security and privacy -- concerns that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
[If you like this kind of thing, Rise of the Computer State is an excellent book, but it looks like it's out of print now (and probably dated).  But it's well written.]
4881456
This book explains the fundamental arguments from mainstream libertarians. It also stresses that freedom does not cost anything except its defense when it's threatened. This contrasts with most of today's governmental policies.
It's easy to read, but it will make you think a lot.
3982881
A very readable resume of the status quo, and very interesting suggestions for future protocols and markets.  Exceptionally well reasoned throughout.
1787739
Noce to read, lot of details and arguments, not just about the climate change but also about the world economical system
2473209
This is a terrific book. The argument goes roughly like this: there has been a change from mode 1 to mode 2 science (explained in their previous book) involving greater interdisciplinarity, more goal directed research, and a diversification of sources of research funding. This book now argues that there has also been a concomitant change in the public sphere. Perhaps the easiest way to describe it is that in the 19th century we had mass primary education; in the first half of the 20th mass secondary education; and in the last 50 years mass university education. As a result, expert decisions cannot be taken by only a few: there are too many civil servants, think tank employees, consultants, and other members of the general public who are able to understand and criticize. Scientific and technical decisions, especially relating to science policy, simply cannot be taken behind closed doors. What we get instead is a more complex and more democratic process, where the aim is socially robust knowledge - a compromise that the enlarged body of decision makers can agree upon. It may be called socially distributed expertise. The authors pursue this using the term agora, the Greek equivalent of the Latin forum. They are attuned to the many interesting changes that has come with this new setting, such as the challenge to the peer review system.
The book is written in the genre of the grand, unspecific sweep. There are few references and few concrete examples. The crude before-and-after discourse is heuristically useful but of course in many ways misleading. These stylistic choices are not everyone's cup of tea, but they do help making the above argument.
599142
The author of this book had a very good observation and reasonable argument. Actually, I believe that is the strength of America. Information flows so fast and I can get this book from library for free. After solving the basic problem of living, China has to go the America way to stimulate creativity and gracious.
2748383
Arguments are very well presented and a lot of the issues the author pointed out, such as the financial-viability of shale gas, are substantiated by many current news report. A pleasant read to a not-so pleasant subject/reality. Highly recommended.
4947338
This book takes some very complicated issues and makes them easy to understand. The arguments are persuasive and well researched.  I found myself getting angry at what is happening to our country and this book explains much of it. This is an interesting perspective and I hope it will start a new debate about the value of public media and spectrum as a public resource.
2679184
This book is a very well-thought-out argument in defense of the rational over faith-based reasons for what truly is. I found it gentle, persuasive and easy to read. If you read this and experience any outrage or insult, it is clearly a case for you to resolve in the face of such self-evidence as Dennett illustrates so well. You are necessarily obliged to think and re-read, I'd suggest. A fine work of non-fiction.
1803341
This is a stimulating, well-written critique of legal compulsiveness and over-formalism.  It will be welcome to
those who (like me) have been influenced at least somewhat by the Realist idea that law is about choices and not about mechanically following rules as though sets of rules were wholly autonomous or self- executing.  Although the book does tend to get a bit flighty to the end in its exposition of the author's broader philosophic themes, in the main it's a sensible explanation of why we're always going to disagree about the law and a reasoned plea for recognizing society's "ethical pluralism" (though I think he goes a bit far on the theme as applied to slavery debates in the 19th Century).  Well written and stimulating.
898408
Fracking is big topic of debate, with claim and counterclaim as to its safety and impact on the environment and local communities as well as long term damage.

The cases both for and against it are often difficult to understand, there seaming to be no common ground. This is very pertinent here in my locale as the area is being surveyed as a potential fracking site.

So its nice to hear a balanced account of the fracking argument from someone who really knows what they are talking about, not a spin doctor or a suit, but someone who has a first class working knowledge of the argument both for and against. The beauty of this book is that it is a balanced view without the hysteria shown by too many people ton both sides of the argument.

Eric George simply explains the fact and leaves you to make your own judgement on the matter. There should be more books like this it makes a refreshing change. My recommendation? If you want the facts and simply the facts about fracking you need to read this book.
1829795
Mr. Friedman, who has previously written a thorough exploration of the philosophy of Natural Rights Libertarianism, now provides a practical analysis of the implications of a Libertarian approach to the numerous real world issues that seem to confound, perplex and challenge present society.  Beginning with a devastating critique of the failings and follies of current policy and practice in this country on the majority of currently controversial policies, he also remedies the deficiency in many such efforts by additionally recommending practical measures that could ameliorate the worst impacts of these failing policies.  These proposed alternatives also possess the virtue of considering the practical possibility of adoption.  In chapters ranging from tax policy, the regulatory state, public education, health care and the welfare state, and not excepting corporate welfare, the author presents thoughtful and challenging ideas to combat the conventional wisdom of current public policy thought.  Whether the reader is seeking more knowledge of natural rights Libertarian philosophy, a well researched critique of the failings of current policies, or prescriptions for practical, and politically possible alternatives, this book is well worth reading.  I find myself returning to it frequently when considering my own views, and when called upon to debate others.
750141
Lott's preface to this book is right: nearly a decade has passed since the most recent comprehensive look at effects of gun laws, a period in which fundamental changes have taken place, not least of which the sunset of an "assault weapon" federal law. Understanding the effects of these policy changes is critical, and his book covers it all. Good piece of work and very accessible material!
1822432
Despite the acrimony of some (obviously biased) reviewers, this is an outstanding book.  Strossen has become a regular source for high school and collegiate debaters for precisely the type of solid analysis you'll find here.  The legal argumentation is great and its nice to hear from an actual lawyer, not merely a social scientist who thinks s/he understands the field.
The rest of the book is also well-written, good structure and organization, decent index, entertaining style, excellent logic.  It is obviously, designed to argue in favor of free speech, but her critics' responses that she ignores data do not impede the force of her argument.  In fact, a lot of the data they rely on is less than ideally gathered, as Strossen points out.  If it wasn't a powerful attack, Strossen's opponents wouldn't be as viciously opposed to this book as they are.
If, like me, you need evidence for debate rounds or are preparing a thesis on free speech, this book is essential, if only because it has generated so much debate.  Don't be mislead by the mediocre rating or the views of an unsuccessful porn star, this book is a "must read".
4249178
Dan presents a very valid argument that is well thought out and well studied. At multiple times while reading this book I was presented with ideas that I not only hadn't thought of, but made me want to read the source material as well. Dan does not pull any punches and does not apologize for his opinions. No doubt there will be many that will be offended by what he has to say, especially in light of recent events. Regardless his arguments are strong and the book is certainly worth a read.
2348898
A good book to read that counter's a lot of liberals complaints and inaccuracies about our current health care system.  She goes on to explain why we shouldn't try to emulate Britain's or Canada's system and does a good job citing her claims which can be looked up and verified given some time (which I actually in some instances because I considered the claims unbelievable).

Ms. Pipes certainly has the credentials and we should certainly listen to what she has to say.  She does a good job of breaking down this complex issue into simple reading.

As an added note, she lived under the Canadian health care systems and says it isn't satisfactory for most American's.  Since I've never experienced this I'll never know, but I'll take her word for it.
518536
This the best book I've read on the problems with our food supply. I highly recommend it as an interesting read with good ideas. We need more regulations and enforcement of food safety laws, not less.