bound to stir up spirited discussions
351236
The negativew reviews of WAR WITHOUT MERCY seem to be emotional reactions based on the belief that pointing out the racism in American policies and attitudes towards Japan somehow cheapens the sacrifices of the American fighting men who defeated Japan. History abounds with events where a noble goal and positive result was achieved as a result of very mixed motives. The Pacific war falls in that category, and Dower should not be blasted for documenting that.
I also think it is unfair to claim that Dower leaves the Japanese off the hook. He never denies the cruel methods of the Japanese armed forces. He never denies the rapacious goals of the Japanese militarists. His treatment is evenhanded.
The reviewer who denies the link between racist animosity and the 1980s trade wars cites a handful of books by tabloid hacks who wanted to make money from American fears. The truth is at the time of the uproar over Japanese purchases of American corporations and real estate, British firms were conducting a much vaster acquisition spree-but that was never portrayed as a sinister threat to the American economy. Dower is sometimes a pedantic and plodding author-but his thesis demands serious attention from anyone interested in U.S.-Japan relations.
1602348
So many great conversations with amazing people in and outside the mainstream comedy world. Fabulous. Also, there are some cool insights into writing on "The Larry Sanders Show".
1121545
This is a thought provoking book and entertaining book.

Divided into ten chapters, each one presents a short story that focuses on moral and ethical issues.  It would be great for starting discussions in a Bible study, ethics class, or any other small group.

The topics covered include the following:  evolution, history, abortion, absolute vs. relative values, character, marriage, whether the elites know best, pornography, and relationships.  The last chapter entitled 'Two Lists' about human relationships is one that everyone in our fast paced culture would do well to read and ponder.

Another chapter that is incredibly creative is 'The Vote'.  It deals with the functioning of government - pure democracy vs. a republic.  He clearly illustrates the old adage that democracy is about two wolves and a lamb voting on what is for dinner.

Although it is very short, this book packs a punch.  I highly recommend it.
444925
Easy read, yet a wonderful discussion starter. Highly recommended for those who want to enrich their faith.
1562243
I think that this essay is the perfect start of the conversation that all Americans need to have. If people put rational thought and consideration into opposing viewpoints many disagreements could be resolved. I
619718
This is a great conversation starter for the free thinkers, I keep it on my end table in the living room and have had many interesting conversations around it. I have a good library of books for freethinkers and I have loaned some of them out after people see this and start questioning the interpritations of storys they have been told their whole lives.
259196
This book gives good food for thought  Gives Connection between history and current time. Promotes conversation from several different viewpoints
4566990
This is a wonderful and provocative exploration of the journey of each of the women in the collective that produced this collection.  It underlines with a good deal of passion the struggles of being a woman and a person of color in the world of hierarchy, neo-colonial social forces and white male supremacy.  Provides lots of areas for discussion and elaboration of gender, race, culture, community, sexuality and other fundamental issues that we all face. This is a good addition to anyones reading list.
3532802
Heated debates are the spice of life and this book generates life large! Every list is a perfect capsule of trivia and information. I find myself going from book to 'net to find out more about the topics covered. A great read in any room of the house, but especially awesome in the loo.
3949661
The reader is invited to explore deeply into words that vibrate with meaning and feeling. Selecting a word for each day  has given me surprising and delightful insights.  Bekki Bergeson
1376345
The book overall led to lots of interesting thought and discussion at a book club. It is very time, thats for sure. A few examples were not the strongest.
14923
If you have a gathering of people this would be a great edition/addition to have available.  By answering a series of questions some profound insights come about for each person.  Very cool
3787259
The issues and concerns and our needs and wants are discussed openly and fairly. The steps until the coupling takes place are very hot. This is a fun read
152274
Fun game, but even more lively conversation.  Would recommend for groups with a working/general knowledge of pop culture.
4142853
A fascinating discussion in which both participants try very hard to address each other's actual views, rather than knock down straw men; and in which each acknowledges the other's good points. A rather hopeful beginning to a long-procrastinated conversation of civilizational importance...
3039270
For any new or (soon-to-be) parent - humorous yet can set the stage for some healthy conversations about expectations and values on parenting
2377845
This book truly is a conversation. You can hear Cronkite's speech cadence as he candidly recalls the events recounted by Carleton. Carleton's knowledge of his subject's life and career is impressive in its attention to detail. My husband and I are reading this book aloud so we can discuss these events and share our own memories of them. It is a delightful experience.