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This original book has been consistently cited by scholars of international relations who explore the roots of realism in Thucydides's history and the political philosophy of Thomas Hobbes. While acknowledging that neither thinker fits perfectly within the confines of international relations realism, Laurie M. Johnson proposes Hobbes's philosophy is more closely aligned with it than Thucydides's.

Has modern Western society lost its sense of honor? If so, can we find the reason for this loss? Laurie Johnson Bagby turns to the political philosophy of Thomas Hobbes for answers to these questions, finding in him the early modern 'turning point for honor.' She examines Hobbes's use of the word honor throughout his career and reveals in Hobbes's thought an evolving understanding of honor, at least in his analysis of politics and society. She also looks at Hobbes's life and times, especially the English Civil War, a cataclysmic event that solidified his rejection of honor as a socially and politically useful concept. Bagby analyzes key ideas in Hobbes's philosophy which shed further light on his conclusion that the desire for honor is dangerous and needs to be eliminated in favor of fear and self-interest. In the end, she questions whether the equality of fear in the state of nature is actually a better source of social and political obligation than honor. In rejecting any sense of obligation based upon earlier notions of natural superiors and inferiors, does Hobbesian and future liberal thought unnecessarily reject honor as a source of restraint in society that previously promoted protection of the weaker against the stronger?

That so many characters in literature were drawn from real life has long intrigued me. What was the inspiration that anabled so many writers to breathe such intense reality into imagined characters, and provided the power to propel them through entire novels? The models in this book were already well known to the writers, hence - Drawn From Life. LAURIE JOHNSON

Come and take a real time walk with me, thru life as you journey thru the pages of this book. Laughter, tears and joys, all the emotions with memories and thoughts combined. You might feel the heartache and tears, with the triumph of growth. But thru it all, moving forward, I hope you find some similar to your own inner most thoughts at times. Take time to read and reread if you want too, the many mood and emotions I have felt, as the shadows of my mind unfolded, onto these pages. But there is always a ray of sunshine, with a hope for tomorrow.

I fell under the spell of the great man's 'funny side' at around the age of ten, and I have been a Dickens junkie ever since. His humour seemed, and seems, so real to me and true for all times. There are, of course, certain Victorian references which are no longer relevant today, but the characters he drew and the foibles and eccentricities they embody remain all too fresh and real, easily recognisable. Readers who might be deterred by the prospect of trawling through the lengthy twists and turns of the convoluted storylines required and expected in the Victorian novel might never get as far as the oases of wit and humour that abound along the way. Perhaps this little selection might encourage them to explore further. It is a rewarding journey. LAURIE JOHNSON

Rich by Choice, Poor by Habit is a concise and easy-to-understand guide to some of the most powerful tools and principles for achieving complete personal and financial freedom. Filled with concepts, activities, quizzes, work sheets, illustrations, quotes and practical tips, Rich by Choice, Poor by Habit inspires readers to think the unthinkable and to make the impossible possible.Each chapter contains a Laurie Story, an honest and candid personal account that vividly illustrates when Laurie's Rich Choices paid off or when her Poor Habits blocked her success.If you're ready to "TAP IN" To Your Full Potential, then Rich by Choice, Poor by Habit is for YOU!

God wants us to hold His hand and stay on His path; the path that leads us to our destiny. God will reveal Himself and His directions to His children, but we must quiet our minds. He may use scriptures, books, things of nature, insight from friends, etc. He will reveal Himself in a very personal way with each of us. We need to pay attention and trust in Him above all things. He truly loves each one of us and wants us to live a blessed life. He wants us also to bless others with our lives. That is why I am sharing these poems and messages with you. I am an ordinary person with faults and challenges in my life. However, I have always desired to feel Gods presence and live my life according to His will. He reveals Himself to me often, not because Im special, but because I value the relationship with Him more than anything or anyone. Please open your heart to God also, live your life to its fullest with Him as your Father and guide. He will provide, Just Enough Light to Follow.

Happily Ever After-A Reality Check is a guide for people seeking authentic, enduring love in a world filled with romantic ideals. In this insightful, thought-provoking guide, authors Kelly L. Howarth and Laurie Johnson take you on a journey beyond the enchanting endings of classic stories and into the realm of real-life relationships. Blending humour and wisdom with relatable anecdotes, this book challenges conventional notions of happily ever after. This guide offers a refreshing and honest perspective on love, commitment, and the complexities of modern relationships. Through captivating storytelling and practical insights, Howarth and Johnson dismantle the fairy tale behind unrealistic expectations to help you navigate the obstacles and opportunities for growth in your couple. Whether you're enjoying the early stages of a new relationship, navigating a long-term commitment, or rediscovering love after heartbreak, this book offers valuable lessons that will inspire you to write your happy ending!