Bücher von Ronald C. Smith

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of how college-level history textbooks depict Iran and Iranians in the narrative of Western Civilization's origins. This qualitative case study critically examines eleven widely used Western Civilization history textbooks, unveiling patterns of omission, misrepresentation, and marginalization. Rooted in decolonization, critical pedagogy, and the Western Civilization History dilemma, the research delves into five key themes, providing insights into the terminology, origins, and connections between Iran and the Western narrative. An essential read for those seeking to understand and address the complex dynamics within historical education.

Shadows of Mawangdui offers a fresh perspective on a set of drawings on silk called Daoyintu (Exercise Chart), part of a medical library that was unearthed from a Chinese tomb, dated 168 BCE. Substantially damaged, the silk is arguably one of the most enigmatic medical manuscripts found. Its forty-four static images give an intriguing but incomplete view of an ancient health practice, developed at a time when magical and medical concepts coexisted. Daoyin is the ancient forerunner of modern qigong energy work, and many of the manuscript's original movements can be connected to present-day practices. Inspired by their taiji quan teachers and drawing on scholarly work on medical and Daoist exercises, the authors offer a highly creative and inspiring interpretation of the images. They show the images, give a detailed explanation, and offer a step-by-step movement guide, complete with descriptive photos. The work is insightful and inspiring, having grown from many years of practice, intuitive analysis, and teaching. Readers are encouraged to work with the exercises along the lines suggested, yet also allow their one unique creativity to unfold as they take their very own path, look within themselves, and find their own meaning in the age-old practice. A powerful guide and engaging presentation for anyone interested in healing, longevity, Chinese medicine, and Daoism.