I just finished perusing the Aug/Sept issue of First Things. Some thoughts:
- This piece on global warming is one of the best attempt at denial I've seen, and I'd be interested in a rebuttal.
- I was surprised at some of the negativity of this review of Jesus of Nazareth. It makes sense though - it must be tough to edit the Pope. In the Pope's defense, he did turn 80 this year and one could understand how the pressure to get the thing published would lead to some of the omissions that irk the reviewer.
- I skimmed Harvey Mansfield's article on politics and it didn't really make much sense. Furthermore, I was so bored by it I didn't go back to give it a closer read. If somebody wants to try to persuade me to revisit it, fire away.
- Victor Davis Hanson's review of a new book about the Battle of Lepanto is enjoyable.
- Algis Valiunas' review of a revisitation of Victor Hugo's life and Les Miserables is a charming, adventurous read. There's much, much good in there.
In regard to global warming, we know those who "want it" rebuke scientific facts by name calling. Same with Harvey Mansfield. His "politics" piece is the transcript of a speech.You can listen to it here: http://tvworldwide.com/events/neh/070508/default.cfm?ID=8678&type=wmlow but I wouldn't recommend it. After all "ignorance is bliss."