The last decades of the twentieth century saw an unprecedented assault by humans on nature and animals throughout the world. Instead of moving toward a better world, we are now facing a tidal wave of ecological challenges that threatens to sweep away whatever progress we have achieved. In this landmark book, author Paul G. Irwin presents an alarming look at what we have done—and continue to do—to animals, to our environment, and to ourselves. Losing Paradise first examines the beliefs that lie at the core of our destructive actions—beliefs that place humans above and against nature. It then details the results of these distorted values, including the cruel treatment of animals through factory farming, hunting, and trapping, and the destruction of our environment. But while Losing Paradise shows the damage we have done, it also shows the steps we can take to build a truly humane society and reclaim our wondrous natural world. Most important, it reminds us of the paradise this earth can be for all God’s creatures.

Taking a uniquely interdisciplinary view of the Eastern Mediterranean region's water problems, this book considers some of the technical and regulatory solutions being proposed or implemented to solve the difficulties of diminished or polluted water supplies. Stressing the importance of traditional and historical cultural understanding in addressing the water crisis, the authors demonstrate that what is required is an integrated legal, social and scientific management system appropriate to each country's stage of development and their cultural heritage. Using case studies from Lebanon, Italy, Spain, Egypt, Greece, Jordan and Cyprus, the authors focus on the urgency of the present crisis faced by each country and the need for cooperation. The suggested solutions also serve as a paradigm for the rest of the world as it faces similar issues of water shortage.

Paradise Lost demonstrates the consequences to education, public services and political institutions in California of the increasing resort to the hyper-democracy of the ballot initiative process. WITH A NEW PREFACE.

At the base camp - imagining -- First climb - wisdom -- First crossroad - knowledge -- Second climb - meaningful action -- Second crossroad - purchase -- Third climb - meaningless action -- Third crossroad - place -- Fourth climb - receiving -- Fourth crossroad - needs -- Fifth climb - gratitude -- Fifth crossroad - sin -- At the summit