The book challenges the common portrayal of the Buddha as "enlightened," arguing instead for the term "awakened." It explores how this distinction influences the perception of Buddhism, suggesting that the focus on enlightenment has shaped the religion's identity. By reframing the discussion, it invites readers to reconsider the essence of Buddhist teachings and their implications for personal and spiritual growth.
MAKING HISTORY is an epic exploration of who writes about the past and how the biases of certain storytellers - whether Julius Caesar, William Shakespeare or Simon Schama - continue to influence our ideas about history (and about who we are) today. In this authoritative and entertaining book, Richard Cohen reveals how professional historians and other equally significant witnesses (such as the writers of the Bible, major novelists, dramatists, journalists and political propagandists) influence what become the accepted records of human experience. Is there, he asks, even such a thing as 'objective' history? The depth of Cohen's inquiry and the delight he takes in his subjects includes the practitioners of what he calls 'Bad History,' those thieves of history who twist reality to glorify themselves and conceal their or their country's behaviour. Cohen investigates the published works and private utterances of our greatest historical thinkers to discover the agendas that informed their views of the world, and which in so many ways have informed ours. From the origins of history-writing, when such an idea seemed itself revolutionary, through to television and the digital age, MAKING HISTORY abounds in captivating figures brought to vivid life, from Thucydides and Tacitus to Voltaire and Gibbon, from Winston Churchill to Mary Beard. Rich in character, complex truths and surprising anecdotes, the result is a unique exploration of both the aims and craft of history-making. It will lead us to think anew about our past and ourselves. Review What a brilliant achievement! Like all Richard Cohen's writing, Making History opens a dialogue with the reader - grave and witty, suave yet pointed - erudite yet engaging and full of energy. It has huge scope, but never forfeits the telling detail. It is scholarly, lively, quotable, up-to-date and fun -- HILARY MANTEL Richard Cohen has written an utterly engaging love letter to History's hidden story tellers. Provocative, funny but scrupulously fair, Making History is a timely reminder that history doesn't write itself -- AMANDA FOREMAN With meticulous research and riveting anecdotes, Richard Cohen has peeled back the hidden history behind those who record our past. He brilliantly shows how an extraordinary gallery of characters - from prodigies to charlatans, from ideologues to heroes - has exposed, shaped and, at times, bent and even covered up the facts. In the process, Cohen has achieved what only the finest historians can: he has scrupulously and engagingly made history -- DAVID GRANN, author of Killers of the Flower Moon and The Lost City of Z What a grand, illuminating and fun book! Richard Cohen takes us on a learned tour through the cacophony of history and of the characters who've told the stories that shape us. To understand who we are, we have to understand who we've been - and, as Cohen amply demonstrates, who's framed those understandings -- JON MEACHAM, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House and Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power A fascinating and finely wrought history of history ― PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, starred review [A] love song to the profession of history . . . extremely effective. Cohen's range is admirably broad . . . insightful, thought-provoking and thoroughly researched ― Library Journal About the Author Richard Cohen is the author of Chasing the Sun , How to Write Like Tolstoy and By the Sword. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and for two years was programme director of the Cheltenham Festival of Literature. Five times UK national sabre champion, he was selected for the British Olympic fencing team. He lives in New York.
The secret history of the fiercely beautiful art of fencing. Though fencing is seen as a graceful and noble sport, it is not without its seamy sides. By The Sword traces the darkness behind the mask, from the sport's early brutal days to the more civilised, yet no less dangerous, days of duelling and then to the present day. Abraham Lincoln, Karl Marx and Mussolini were all involved in duels, Hitler gave fencing a special emphasis in his regime and the best fencer the world has ever seen was an anti-Soviet spy. Cohen delves behind the headlines exposing lurid tales of cheating and blackmail, of murder and strange love affairs, the honour and dishonour of swordmanship and its cultural side from The Three Musketeers to Star Trek. Above all the book portrays the character of fencing - at once graceful, balletic, rough, technically beautiful and fiercely competitive.
The Spectator Best Book of the Year and a charming, eloquent love letter to the stories we adore A glorious patchwork of quotation and anecdote. It is a true commonplace book, the homage of a passionate reader to the writers who have provided his main pastime. Sunday Times
Adazzling tour d'horizonof mankind's enduring fascination with, and reliance upon, the extraordinary star at the centre of our solar system.
The book explores the emotional landscape of LGBTQ+ individuals, aiming to foster deeper connections with gay family members and friends. It addresses common conflicts and misunderstandings surrounding homosexuality, offering insights that promote empathy and understanding. By highlighting the importance of love and acceptance, it serves as a guide for those seeking to strengthen their relationships within the LGBTQ+ community.
Focusing on the journey of a young boy grappling with family and school challenges, the narrative follows Rich as he seeks guidance from a counselor. Through this support, he learns to mend his relationships and prioritize love, leading to personal healing and hope. Ultimately, Rich's growth culminates in a fulfilling marriage and the creation of a loving family, offering an inspiring message about resilience and the power of connection.
The book offers a comprehensive therapeutic protocol designed for therapists, coaches, and ministry leaders to support individuals facing challenges related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Accompanied by a 40-hour film series in English and Arabic, as well as an MP3 series, it serves as a detailed roadmap for recovery. This resource aims to equip helpers with the necessary tools and insights to effectively assist those in need.
Exploring the origins of sexual orientation, this book delves into the debate surrounding whether being gay is an innate characteristic or a result of environmental influences. It examines scientific research, personal stories, and cultural perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of sexual identity. Through this exploration, the book aims to shed light on the ongoing discourse about nature versus nurture in the context of homosexuality.
The book offers insights into sexual orientation and gender identity through the author's unique experiences as both a gay man and a heterosexual psychotherapist. Drawing from his extensive work with individuals and families, the author provides guidance on resolving conflicts related to sexual identity. He also shares his expertise in helping parents reconnect with their LGBTQ+ children and training therapists and ministry leaders, making it a valuable resource for both personal and professional development in understanding these complex issues.