Symphonic theology is Vern Poythress' proposal of a new paradigm for doing biblical and systematic theology.

He begins by noting the influences our worldviews and presuppositions have on the way we interpret the data with which we come into contact. He applies this insight to the way we read the Bible, encouraging us to use multiple perspectives in our exegesis and interpretation. For example, those accustomed to reading the Bible for devotional purposes would do well to read it for theological and ethical insights as well. Likewise, theologians often neglect the devotional side of the Scriptures and thus miss the rich wisdom to be gained from that perspective. Although many perspectives can be expanded to apply to the whole Bible - Poythress mentions the 10 commandments as an example of an ethical theme that can be used as an interpretive grid for all the ethical teachings of the Bible - there are some analogies that should not be overextended.

Poythress then moves to a brief examination of semantics and semiotics and their relation to multiperspectival hermeneutics. Words have "fuzzy boundaries," Poythress explains. One word can mean many things, depending on context. Thus, in interpreting the Bible, we must not act as if the author intends the same meaning for a word every time he uses it. The Bible does not use its terms with as much technical precision as systematic theologians might desire. Biblical scholars should also realize that different Scriptural authors approach their subjects from varying perspectives. Matthew is not necessarily concerned with the same things that his counterparts are. Poythress concludes with examples of how symphonic theology can aid believers in the apologetic task and applies the symphonic model to the problem of miracles.

Symphonic Theology is, in my opinion, largely successful in its intention to encourage a more faithful interpretation of God's Word. Along with Carson's Exegetical Fallacies, it stands as a good example of evangelicals applying the insights of secular philosophy, in this case the linguistic philosophers, to the task of Christian theology. It will prove useful for Biblical and systematic theologians alike. However, the work could have been improved in a few areas. First, Poythress needs to clarify the distinction between analogies and motifs. Poythress warns exegetes not to stretch analogies beyond their intention, but argues that motifs can be applied universally. Wherein lies the difference?

Second, Poythress spends too much time regurgitating the same sloppy thought long propounded by Reformed theologians regarding the analogical nature of language. As Gordon Clark and E. J. Carnell repeatedly pointed out, man is not confined to thinking thoughts merely similar to God's. Our knowledge is univocal with God's. Even analogical language has a univocal element that saves it from meaninglessness. In addition, the analogical-language proponents seem to be far too credulous toward 20th century linguistic philosophy, most of which presupposes language as an evolved skill of man. This assumes not only naturalism but also empiricism.

The Christian view, on the other hand, sees language as a capacity endowed by God for the purpose of communication with Him. Our language about God is not, therefore, analogical to our experience. Rather, our experience is analogical to God. For example, when we call God father, our language is not analogical; it is univocal. The analogy occurs when we call our human parent a father. Our earthly father is meant to be an analogy of our heavenly father. Like many things, 20th century philosophy got it all backwards!

Irenic and scholarly, this book represents the theme of Poythress's philosophy of theology. He advocates humility and unity in the body of Christ by showing the validity of the many perspectives contributing to the world of theology. While one camp of theologians may think they have the "true" and "only" position on a matter, Poythress shows that every perspective in the realm of orthodoxy must be regarded in order to understand more fully the scope of God's wonderful truth. Just like the 5 five blind men feeling an elephant in different places in a well know parable, many people are claiming that they have a corner on the truth, while the fact may remain that they all have something important to contribute to the whole. Thus, dogmatism and strife are untenable positions. In our pilgrimage to know the Word of God more fully, all Christians must unite and "play fair" in their analysis of one another's doctrinal understandings. As one teacher of mine once said, "Dogmatism is oftentimes nothing but grown up puppy-ism."
Read this book to develop a Christ-spirited methodology of hermeutics that will revolutionize the way you think biblically. You may never read the Bible, or view the debates of Christians over hermeneutical issues, the same way again! This book is truly honoring to Christ and seeks to call all His people to a better understanding of His Word with a corporate effort founded out of humility and love.

Just to clarify some of the other more high-toned reviews, this is the story that a man whose inclinations are thoroughly homosexual and inclined toward pederasty tells to male friends who, the reader infers, incline the same way. It is the story of his marriage and attempt toward a "normal" life. Though Marceline, his wife, is a paragon of sweetness, he cannot maintain a constant affection for her, and when she contracts tuberculosis, though he tries to be sympathetic, distraction and boredom send him off to the boys who infatuate him. The story is told subtley; you slowly realize that this an unreliable narrator who is more of a scoundrel that he makes himself out to be. It's impossible to think of an American politician (Gide held several important government jobs in France) writing a book like this!

Many readers of this book are inclined to compare it with the works of Camus. I grant that The Immoralist does suggest existential questions but, unlike Camus' La Chute (for instance), it simply presents the life and actions of the anti-hero without his actual and deliberate existential questioning. This is the subtle richness of Gide's writing. The Immoralist presents a unique disparity in the lavishness in description of setting, and the relatively spare characterizations. Gide does not glorify, chastise nor condemn his Michel. Michel is simply what he is, what he has become. This novel is filled with brilliant writing, lines of which one can't help but memorize. For instance, "The capacity to get free is nothing; the capacity to be free, that is the task." and also, "You cannot be sincere and at the same time seem so." Having read both Bussy's pioneer translation and Howard's later one, I much prefer the latter. It's a far more exact translation.

First off, you should (preferably) read this book only if you've read "The Counterfeiters" first. Anyway, Gide has a marvelous voice; even in translation, the prose pours magnificently from the page. Much has been made of the scandalous homosexual undertones of the book; more interesting is the socialist ideas that are subtly portrayed in the novel's simple storyline. Michel is not a hero; he is simply a man who comes to understand himself only through losing everything. Very similar to Camus - think "La Chute" or "L'Etranger". Very original...I have heard life changing, though I wouldn't go that far. However, it does make you think. Definitely high on my reading list.

I read this interesting work while researching "Sacred Blood." It is heavy reading on a notoriously heavy subject, but is especially relevant in these troubled times we are currently experiencing around the world. It makes an interesting case to explain, in the specific case of one town, "how could they let this happen?" Just goes to reiterate that while times change, people don't.

Sheridan uses one community to explain how the Nazis (NSDAP) were able to gain power in an entire country within the democratic system. His exhaustive research of local archives shows how the NSDAP was able to set up an effiecient bureaucracy that simply outworked other parties and spread their message through 1000's of meetings. Extremists (from the right or left) don't always take power through military force - sometimes the open nature of democracies can be used to subvert them, as was the case in Germany in 1933. True, there are many other factors involved, but Sheridan's book provides clear examples that are often overlooked.

By tracing the personal histories of the inhabitants of Nordheim and the practical workings of the local Nazi party structures, Allen illustrates the reasons for the sudden and powerful rise to power of the NSDAP in a way that is insightful and memorable. By using such details as excerpts from local newspapers, attendance records of Nazi and non-Nazi events, and memories of the still-living Nordheim residents, Allen is able to give an amazingly detailed and yet concise and easily readable view of the events and feelings that proceeded and stemmed from the Nazi rise to power.

when it came to building a ghost story, through dialogues and occurences, noone matches Lefanu. At this, he is a master. he describes the situation before THE happening magnificently. however, when it does happen, the story is over. the horror itself seem to escape Lefanus writing style. his ghost stories are mostly not catching to a modern(living)reader. only 2 of his ghost stories are worth reading. I still recommend this book. the reason are the two stories who are not ghost stories. Carmilla, one of the very best vampire stories, built beautifully through subtle hints, psychology, and descriptions. my favourite gothic story. then it's Lefanu's masterpiece: green tea. in fact, one of the best horror stories ever written! too bad Lefanu insisted on writing so many ghost stories, instead of common horror, otherwise he might be a real master in the genre, as Carmilla and Green Tea proves

I don't much like ghost stories, but these and the ones by M R James really stand out from the pack. Atmospheric, inventive, and original. In "Carmilla" LeFanu invented the vampire story, and with its subtle horrors and hints of lesbianism, it is at least as good as Dracula. Rich and intricate prose.

Not only would I say that Lefanu is superior to the supposedly incomparable M.R. James, he actually rivals Poe in terms of psychological profundity and intellectual denseness. These tales are meticulously crafted and some of them are inexhaustible in their potential readings. M.R. James, on the other hand, is a pleasure to read, to be sure, but shallow when placed alongside the likes of Lefanu. I have nothing against James but he is strangely over-rated for some reason. Lefanu, Onions, Poe and Lovecraft I would have to rate ahead of him, with Lefanu and Poe at the top.

I started reading this book one evening before bed and had not gone more than two chapters when I found myself noticing that I had a couple of places on the wall I needed to touch up with paint. A couple of chapters later I found myself wondering if I needed to clean my gutters out.

Since neither paint nor gutters appear prominently in this book, the only conclusion I could draw was-- I was bored. I ended up finishing the book when stopped by a train and it was the only book I had in the car.

Here's the good: It's not badly written at all. One of the authors writes the China Bayliss mysteries which I have read and enjoyed, so the writing is smooth and professional.

The information on horse doping was new to me and appeared well researched.

Here's the bad: I felt as though the characters lacked depth. Charles (I think he started the series as Sir Charles but I must have missed something after that) is egalitarian (doesn't want to use his title), supportive of his wife having a career as a writer, and interested in science. The reader would not guess that he had ever held any other views or struggled to arrive at the views. The just appear full blown. Kate, his American wife, supports women's sufferage, writes succesful novels and has set up a school to teach women agriculture. She also never seems to question her ideas or wonder if what she is doing is best for the objects of her charity.

They have one friend who supports Cecil Rhodes' policy in Africa, but I'm sure he will see the error of his ways. All of the other members of the nobility and gentility are potrayed as corrupt and venal. This is just too easy for the modern reader. It affirms the current beliefs in these areas and never asks us to examine whether or not the beliefs of that era had any value.

Also there are numerous errors in the titles used in the story. Lord Charles (and Lady Charles for his wife) are honorific titles for the younger sons of Dukes and Marquesses and their wives. Charles's proper title would have been Lord Somerset and Kate would be Lady Somerset. It's stated he doesn't want to use the title (prefers Sheridan) but it still wouldn't be proper to address him as "Lord Charles Sheridan." If he properly renounced the title he would be simply Mr. Charles Sheridan.

I guess it might be possible to just say it's meant to be light entertainment and shrug off any criticism that way, but it has to have some quality that engages the interest of the reader before it can entertain.

I admit I do enjoy this series, but it is strictly a "fun" read. I agree with the other reviewers that the author(s) really make a royal hash of the British titles, alternately referring to the same character as Lord "surname" and then as Lord "first name" - yet the same person would NEVER go by both of those. Charles, as a peer, would never EVER be referred to a Lord Charles, and it would be terribly gauche to do so. A prince is never Your Majesty.

These are pretty simple things that even an American like me can figure out and understand, yet the author(s) screw this up every time in book after book.

However if I just grit my teeth and bear it the rest of the book is funny and informative, a "light" read, so I guess I cannot expect too much accuracy. But fun. Brain candy.

This book is just as enjoyable as the previous ones in the series. I like the way the Albert's craft a tale. The story is neatly plotted, the mystery is just quirky enough, and we get a bird's eye view of actual people that lived during this era. The depiction of Lily Langtree is realistic. We see her as she was in the later stages of her illustrious career. I found this book was also interesting because of the descriptions of the life of the "horsey" set from this time. It also told us what horse racing was like in England in the latter part of the 19 century. Really, not much different than now if you think of it. Doping still occurs, and fortunes are made and lost at the track. All in all, a good story with all of our favourite characters.

Without a doubt - my favorite San Fran Travelers book that goes so far beyond the usual "tourist" finds. This book is for the unknown and "local" treasures. "Savvy in the City: San Francisco - See Jane Go Guide to City Living by Sheridan Becker and Jayne Young is a wonderful little gem that breaks down those hard to find places by neighborhood and category. Each of those contains :

Eats ... (from the best and greatest - to those small little gems)
Treats ... (from massages to tattoo's)
Traumas... (for when you break your Prada heals)
Treasures ... (those really whims)
Twilight... (all the great clubs)
Tripping ... (for those with adventure on their mind)

You'll find great little sections such as best [inexpensive] manicures and diviest pubs. It's all those must haves for young woman in the BIG CITY. San Fran is one of the most amazing places in the world and this guide gives us vistors the best of the best. Great resource and really user friendly. Loved the whole feel and illustration.

Cheers!

This will become your bible if you are taking a trip to San Francisco. The city will become managealbe - and it has everything I was looking for to make my boring business trip become interesting. Thanks for the great information, Jane! P.S. I am going to London over the summer and was wondering if there is a Savvy book for London? Enjoy!

... A girlfreind gave me this book as a welcome home present. I was blown away by the great information that has really helped me adjust. I am so happy to be back and ready to hit the streets running. To put it this way, it is well work the money. I do wish they would have put an index in the back so I can find the places easier? But, overall, I have been a very happy and informed reader. I have just bought 10 copies for bachelorette party favor.

I bought this as a gift for my boss. I thought the subject was very interesting and bought it based on the positive reviews of other readers. When I received it, I was very disappointed by the quality of the printing. It looked like someone photo-copied it. I expected a $12 paperback to have a more professional look. Needless to say, I won't be giving it as a gift.

Mind you, I am not judging the quality of the writing. Since I know nothing about children or accupressure, I am not qualified to rate that.

This book has wonderful information on Chinese "TUINA" Acupressure and Aromatherapy. The author studied in China, and the valuable information taken from both Chinese Medicine Doctors and a very well known Registered Nurse Jane Buckle, author of "Clinical Aromatherapy in Nursing" of whom wrote the foreword in this book. There is much credible information in the book, great for new mothers and for those who simply want to use acupressure to help their children! Sincerely, LOVED THE BOOK!! AMTA (AMERICAN MASSAGE THERAPY JOURNAL IS DOING A FRONT COVER ARTICLE ON THIS BOOK SPRING 2001. A NATIONAL MEDICAL ORGANIZATION, BOOK REVIEW WILL FOLLOW IN SEPTEMBER 2001 ISSUE OF THE MASSAGE THERAPY JOURNAL.

I have used the information in this book and it is truly great and very helpful to new mothers with infants. I am devastated of what another reviewer has to say about Ms Larson's book. This sounds almost like petty jealousy and no where did I read that Ms Larson was proclaiming to be a doctor. Her techniques and methods are proven and very good. I did not see anywhere in her book which I own,falsehoods at all. I am sorry, this is a great book and every new mother should have it in her home.

Given the spectacular corporate finance shenanigans of Enron, Worldcom, American Tissue, and others, it is inconceivable this book doesn't cover off-balance sheet products in the detail they deserve.

Corporate finance tools such as total return swaps aren't covered. These are disguised financing used as hedge funds and corporations for leverage. When corporations use their own equity as collateral, they create a toxic convertible. For more on this and other off-balance sheet products including an explanation of off-shore bankruptcy remote corporations, read "Credit Derivatives" (Second Edition) by Tavakoli.

I bought this book as a recommended supplemental text for a course in Corporate Finance in the MBA program at the U of Michigan Business School. I can say I am very glad that I bought and am reading this book. There is a great deal of information here so I hate to say that I have already read it.

But I can recommend it to you strongly by praising it for these reasons:

1) It puts practical flesh on the financial model bones you learned in your first course on finance. There are very good discussions of the basic and well-known fundamental theories and models, but the authors also share with us what tends to happen in the real world. And isn't that what each of us need to add to our theoretical thinking?

2) Each chapter has effective summarizing Key Concepts and Key Terms with plenty of problems to work through and a list of References and Additional Readings that enable the reader to dive deeper into the topic of the chapter just read.

3) The book is helpfully organized into six Parts that provide the framework for the discussion. Parts 1-3 are a review of "Financial Markets and Instruments", "Valuing Financial Assets", and "Valuing Real Assets". This foundation gives the student a good grounding in order to see how these principles are used in the work of managing the capital structure of a corporation. Parts 4-6 discuss the "Corporate Financial Structure", "Incentives, Information and Corporate Control", and "Risk Management". These last three sections are the real meat of the book and where a great deal of its value to the business student lies.

4) Each of the Parts has an effective and brief introduction that sets the tone for what is to be studied. Even better, at the end of each the six Parts there are two very helpful summary sections: "Practical Insights" and "Executive Perspective".

This is a specialized topic. But it is an important topic. This is a very good book that can help a serious student get grounded in some very important principals necessary to managing the financial issues facing every corporation. I recommend it.

The most valuable part of this book is in its ability to integrate financial decision making with strategy. This is rare especially for a book this good.

Another valuable point is that its approach of balancing theories and practicality. If student finds it a little confusing or non-conclusive on many issues, it is precisely so in reality.

A book this good is more than a gift.

i like a book that goes back in time. everytime she bumped her head, she switched centuries. it got really annoying because everytime it got interested, she switched centuries!! i really didn't like it.

The story held my interest but I was dissapointed that there weren't more references to the future. It always makes me laugh when the people can't figure out how to do things. It seemed that Laura already knew how to do everything and being 100 years in the past was no sweat. That wasn't real believable.

The time travel was handled so well in this story. Laura kept fading in and out of 1998 to the year 1898 at very dramatic times after a wish upon a star. Both hero and heroine were tormented souls who found each other despite being born a century apart. I liked how Corby did not believe Laura immediately when she spoke about 1998. It took him a long time to trust Laura and made their love all the more precious. Corby's relatives, both during 1898 and the ones Laura knew in 1998 were out of the ordinary. Corby was shown as very human and even had a side one couldn't like very well. Laura too had her own foibles. The path of love is not easy. You will cheer for a happy ending and will not be disappointed. The sexual tension was wonderful and the love scenes were sensuous. If you are a time travel fan, you will love this one.

I would give this book 1/2 of a star or a 1/4 of a single star... One customer's review said she "laughed till her sides hurt" which is why I bought the book. I for one did NOT laugh at the book, it really wasn't even funny. The stories are VERY dry and dated. I am 40 pages into the book and its awful. I can't believe the copy write is 1997 because the stories all seem to come from the 1930's and 50's. What was the author thinking? Couldn't she find some 80's or 90's women to share their child birthing stories? I couldn't at all relate to the women in the book. Very disapointing read, save your money on this one and put it towards your baby's nursery room. If your interested in a better book I highly recommend, "From Here to Maternity" by Allan Zullo with John McGran, very funny outrageous but true pregnancy stories.

Belly Laughs and Babies is simply delightful! It brought tears and laughter and evoked a great many memories about my own experiences with pregnancy, childbirth, and baby days. It was very easy to read and I finished it in one sitting, eager to read more and to share my own stories. Any mother/father, young or old will recognize themselves in some of the stories or recall thier own as they delight in this collection. A fun read!!

I loved Belly Laughs and high recommed it to anyone who has ever experienced the fun and foibles of parenthood. It makes a great gift for a new parent, especially if given after they have experieced those sleepness nights and need a few laughs. The variety of chuckles, heartfelt smiles and OhmyGod-how-awful anecdotes are sure to lighten a harried heart.