Paul Joseph Livres

The book explores the evolving attitudes of Americans towards militarism in the aftermath of the 2004 elections and the Iraq War. It examines the cumulative effects of various scandals, including Abu Ghraib and the Valerie Plame case, alongside the significant loss of U.S. soldiers. These events may be influencing a shift in public opinion, suggesting a growing inclination towards peace and a reevaluation of U.S. military involvement.

Exploring the journeys of two families a century apart, the narrative juxtaposes Mark Twain's late 19th-century travels with Paul Joseph's modern-day adventures in the South Pacific. Twain's experiences on his lecture tour and the insights from his notebooks are contrasted with Joseph's sabbatical in New Zealand and travels through Fiji, Australia, and Indonesia with his family. Utilizing journals, photographs, and humor, the book delves into the geographical and emotional landscapes they navigate, highlighting the enduring nature of travel and family connections across time.

The book examines the role and impact of Human Terrain Teams, which consisted of social scientists integrated into combat brigades in Iraq and Afghanistan. It highlights their contributions to counterinsurgency efforts, analyzing both the promises made and the outcomes achieved. Through this exploration, the work sheds light on the complexities of military operations and the importance of understanding local cultures in conflict zones.

Economic inequality, declining public services, environmental degradation, and other forms of domestic decay threaten the quality of life in the US. This title develops a systematic comparison of the "old" and "new" world orders that links foreign and domestic affairs.