John D. Clark - Böcker

Instead of taking somebody's word for it about the basic size and distance statistics for the solar system, this book shows amateur astronomers how to measure these things for themselves. This is an enriching experience for any amateur astronomer - to understand and personally measure some fundamental astronomical quantities and distances.A basic knowledge of geometry is required, but it is amazing how simple the geometry can be. Readers are led through the geometry as gently as possible - and in a light-hearted way - presuming that most non-academics will have half-forgotten most of their mathematics. The practical astronomical equipment recommended is no more than a typical commercially-made amateur telescope and a camera of some sort - these days a webcam works very well. Apart from that all the reader will need is access to a computer, the know-how to download free software, and an enthusiasm to expand his knowledge of the basis of scientific astronomy.

Globalization is one of the most politically charged issues of our time. This book aims to bridge the divide between its advocates and its critics, but, rather than trying to find middle ground, the author looks at globalization through the lens of poor people and poor countries, arguing for a different management of global changes that ensures everyone a share in its opportunities. His is a call for ethical globalization. An influential and globalizing civil society has a great opportunity to be a critical player - but this could be a brief window. Its advocacy largely pillories deficiencies in the system instead of promoting viable alternatives. The author seeks to change this by applying his experience from both sides of the ideological divide - working with NGOs, governments and the World Bank - to analyse the system's faults and suggest a fresh framework for transforming global relations and redressing injustices.

'Informative and useful.' Development and ChangeUntil recently, most civil society organizations (CSOs) operated at national or local levels. However, new global organizations and networks are increasingly emerging. This book examines what CSOs can achieve, and the barriers they face, when they break national boundaries and sectoral moulds and work with others in global networks. A series of case studies of CSO initiatives reveal how transnational action can yield impressive results in changing policies and public attitudes. The diverse range of CSOs studied includes consumer groups, trade unions, the anti-globalization protest movement, the World Social Forum, Jubilee 2000 and others. All reveal a remarkably similar array of practical challenges, from structure and leadership issues to governance dilemmas. The book offers practical guidance to those engaged with CSOs and contributes to academic enquiry about civil society.