New Releases by Christopher Ford

A hilarious personal account from within the walls of the asylum. Unbelievably true stories that will make you laugh out loud while wincing at the shocking detail. This book will leave you wondering how society can be so seriously messed up, and how collective minds have malfunctioned. Not just for those with mental disorders, but those supposedly treating the afflicted. This is definitely not a recruitment advert for mental health nursing. This is a hard-hitting reality show. As the author says, "It's a warts and all" account - meaning not just the warts but also the halitosis, the skid marks, and more. A pig wearing lipstick is still a pig; you cannot sugarcoat reality. Your jaw will drop often, but it will be exercised with laughter throughout.

"Pankration: Ancient Techniques for Modern Warriors" is a comprehensive guide that bridges the gap between ancient combat arts and contemporary martial arts, offering a treasure trove of timeless wisdom and practical techniques for aspiring warriors of all levels. Delving deep into the rich history and traditions of Pankration, this book serves as a roadmap for modern practitioners seeking to unlock the secrets of this legendary martial art. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist looking to expand your repertoire or a novice seeking to embark on a journey of self-discovery, "Pankration: Ancient Techniques for Modern Warriors" is your ultimate guide to mastering the art of combat. With its blend of ancient wisdom and modern insights, this book is sure to inspire and empower warriors of all backgrounds to unleash their full potential and become true modern-day warriors.

Step into the captivating world of Nordic tales, where gods clash, heroes rise, and the fate of worlds hangs in the balance! Dive into a realm teeming with epic battles, cunning tricksters, and majestic beings from ancient sagas that continue to enthrall audiences worldwide. Explore the panoramic landscapes where towering gods like Odin and Thor wield unimaginable power, where Valkyries soar above battlefields, and where the mischievous Loki weaves schemes that shape destinies. These tales unfold in a rich tapestry of conflicts, prophecies, and cosmic cataclysms, culminating in the spellbinding saga of Ragnarok, the apocalyptic battle that heralds both destruction and rebirth. Encounter fierce giants, skilled dwarves, and fearsome monsters that challenge the might of gods and heroes. Feel the pulse of ancient wisdom, as myths woven around Yggdrasil, the World Tree, echo the eternal cycles of life, death, and renewal. Immerse yourself in stories of courage, sacrifice, and the intricate dance between fate and free will, as Norse mythology's timeless narratives continue to inspire artists, writers, and storytellers across generations. Join us on a journey through Nordic tales-a voyage that ignites the imagination, explores the depths of human nature, and unveils the enduring legacy of these mythic adventures!

"Robert Tressell and Ragged Trousers" is an exploration into the life of Robert Tressell, a mysterious figure behind the revolutionary novel "The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists." Delving into Tressell's life, early influences, and his journey to becoming a writer, this book unravels the enigmatic author's motivations, struggles, and the societal context that shaped his literary masterpiece. Set against the backdrop of late 19th and early 20th-century England, this book vividly portrays the harsh conditions faced by the working class, painting a poignant picture of their struggles, exploitation, and the rising tide of labor movements and socialist ideologies. This book digs deep into the heart of the novel's themes-exploitation, inequality, and the class divide-offering insights into their enduring relevance in contemporary society. It explores the book's unique structure and narrative style, showcasing its literary significance and timeless impact on literature, politics, and social reform. Through the lens of Tressell's struggles in getting his work published and the eventual recognition of his manuscript, this book encapsulates the enduring legacy of "The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists" and its lasting influence on activism, social consciousness, and the ongoing fight for social justice.

"Quantum Computing: The Future of Information Processing" is an immersive exploration into the revolutionary world of quantum computing, designed to captivate and enlighten both novices and experts in the field. This comprehensive book navigates through the captivating landscape of quantum mechanics and computing, offering an insightful journey into the following aspects: Unveiling the Quantum Realm: Embark on a fascinating journey into the quantum realm, discovering the fundamental principles that underpin this revolutionary form of computing. Explore the concepts of superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference that redefine the boundaries of classical computing. Mastering Quantum Bits (Qubits): Delve into the enigmatic realm of qubits, the building blocks of quantum computing. Unravel the mysteries behind qubits' superposition and entanglement, unlocking their potential to process information in ways that challenge traditional binary computing. Quantum Algorithms and Applications: Experience the sheer power of quantum algorithms, revealing their prowess in solving complex problems exponentially faster than classical counterparts. Discover groundbreaking applications across cryptography, optimization, machine learning, and scientific simulations. Realizing the Future: Peer into the future landscape shaped by quantum computing. Explore its potential impact on various industries, from healthcare and finance to cybersecurity, and envision a world transformed by quantum-enabled innovation.

Embark on a journey to unlock the ancient secrets of Nei Gong and discover a path to holistic well-being. In "Unlocking the Secrets of Nei Gong" we delve into the heart of this internal energy practice, where the union of mind, body, and spirit reveals the keys to inner harmony and vitality. Unlock your potential and embark on a transformative path and immerse yourself in the ancient wisdom of this internal art and discover the keys to a life of profound harmony, health, and spiritual fulfillment.

"Shaolin Temple: The Ancient Heart of Martial Arts" is an exploration of one of the world's most iconic and mysterious martial arts institutions. This book delves deep into the history, philosophy, and practices of the Shaolin Temple, offering readers a window into the ancient traditions of Shaolin Kung Fu and Chan Buddhism. With vivid storytelling and rich insights, it unveils the secrets of Shaolin's legendary monks, their incredible feats, and their profound spiritual journey. Whether you're a martial arts enthusiast, a seeker of wisdom, or simply curious about the Shaolin legacy, this book is a compelling and enlightening read that will leave you inspired and informed. Join us on this extraordinary voyage into the heart of Shaolin. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Origins of Shaolin Temple Chapter 2: Shaolin Philosophy and Spirituality Chapter 3: Legends and Tales of Shaolin Chapter 4: Shaolin Kung Fu: The Art of Combat Chapter 5: The Shaolin Way of Life Chapter 6: Shaolin in Modern Times

"IT Networking: A Comprehensive Guide" is a detailed resource designed to help IT professionals, students, and networking enthusiasts gain a deep understanding of networking principles, practices, and technologies. Key sections that are included in the book: Foundations of Networking: Such as network topologies, protocols, and the OSI model. It provides a strong foundation for readers new to networking. Network Components: Its covers various networking components, including routers, switches, hubs, access points, and their roles in network architecture. Protocols and Standards: The book delves into networking protocols like TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, and others, explaining how they facilitate data transmission and network operations. It would also touch on industry standards and best practices. Network Security: Network security principles, firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection, and security policies are also covered. Wireless Networking: With the prevalence of Wi-Fi networks, this comprehensive guide explores wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi standards, security, and troubleshooting. Advanced Topics: Advanced networking topics such as VLANs, network design, subnetting, IPv6, QoS (Quality of Service), and network virtualization are also covered. Emerging Technologies: Given the dynamic nature of IT, the book touches on emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, edge computing, and SD-WAN.

"The Art of Filipino Martial Arts" celebrates the vibrant and multifaceted world of FMA. From its historical origins to the modern-day practice, this book provides an in-depth exploration of the techniques, philosophies, and cultural significance of Filipino martial arts. Whether you are a practitioner seeking to deepen your knowledge or an enthusiast eager to learn, this book serves as a comprehensive guide that sheds light on the beauty and power of this ancient art form. Let us embark on this journey together and discover the hidden treasures within the realm of Filipino Martial Arts.

"Sumo: The Art of Power and Grace" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of sumo, from its origins and cultural significance to its rules, techniques, and challenges in the modern world. It will explore both the traditional aspects of sumo and its evolution as a global sport, while highlighting its impact on the lives of wrestlers and its enduring place in Japanese culture. Chapters included: Chapter 1: Introduction to Sumo Chapter 2: The Sumo Rikishi Chapter 3: The Sumo Dohyo Chapter 4: Rules and Techniques of Sumo Chapter 5: Sumo Tournaments and Seasons Chapter 6: Sumo Outside Japan Chapter 7: Sumo and the Media Chapter 8: The Sumo Lifestyle and Traditions Chapter 9: Sumo and Health Chapter 10: Sumo and Gender Chapter 11: The Future of Sumo Chapter 12: Sumo Etiquette and Traditions Chapter 13: Sumo legends

"Unleashing Harmony: The Art of Aikido" delves into the profound world of Aikido--a martial art that goes beyond mere combat techniques to cultivate inner harmony, self-discipline, and a deep connection with others. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this book will serve as your roadmap to understanding and mastering the principles, techniques, and philosophy of Aikido. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Origins and Philosophy of Aikido Chapter 2: The Aikido Dojo and Training Etiquette Chapter 3: Aikido Techniques: Throws and Joint Locks Chapter 4: Aikido Techniques: Strikes and Weapons Chapter 5: Aikido in Practice: Randori and Multiple Attackers Chapter 6: Aikido as a Path of Self-Discovery Chapter 7: Aikido and Its Impact on Health and Well-being

"The Path of Judo: Unleashing Inner Strength and Mastery" is more than a technical manual; it is a holistic exploration of the art, philosophy, and transformative power of Judo. By understanding the origins, techniques, etiquette, and mental aspects of this martial art, you will embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and physical excellence. May this book be your guide as you walk the path of Judo, embracing its principles both on and off the tatami. Chapters included: Chapter 1: Origins and Philosophy of Judo Chapter 2: Judo Techniques and Training Methods Chapter 3: The Judo Dojo and Etiquette Chapter 4: Competitions and Randori (Sparring) Chapter 5: Mental and Spiritual Aspects of Judo Chapter 6: Judo for Self-Defense and Life Skills Chapter 7: Judo for All: Adaptive Judo and Inclusive Practices Chapter 8: Judo legends

Muay Thai: The Art of Eight Limbs is a comprehensive guide to the art of Muay Thai, covering both the technical aspects of the sport and its cultural significance. It is designed for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced fighters, as well as those interested in learning about the history and philosophy of Muay Thai. The book also emphasizes the importance of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship within the Muay Thai community.

Welcome to the journey of mastering Spanish. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to improve your existing skills, this book is designed to be your reliable companion throughout the learning process. Spanish, with its rich history and widespread global usage, is a beautiful language that opens doors to new cultures, friendships, and opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most effective strategies, resources, and techniques to help you confidently and proficiently communicate in Spanish. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Beauty and Importance of Spanish Chapter 2: Laying the Foundations Chapter 3: Building Your Vocabulary Chapter 4: Navigating Spanish Grammar Chapter 5: Listening and Speaking Proficiency Chapter 6: Reading and Writing Skills Chapter 7: Cultural Insights Chapter 8: Advanced Grammar and Idiomatic Expressions Chapter 9: Specialized Vocabulary and Professional Language Chapter 10: Staying Motivated and Overcoming Challenges

"A Planet in Peril: The Urgency of Global Warming" is a compelling and thought-provoking book that delves into the urgent and critical issue of climate change and its profound impacts on our world. Written with a blend of scientific rigor, storytelling, and a call to action, this book serves as a wake-up call for readers to recognize the gravity of the global warming crisis and the imperative to address it collectively.

"Shinobi: A Guide to Ninjutsu" is an in-depth exploration of the ancient martial art of the ninja. From its historical origins to its modern-day applications, this book provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of the art of ninjutsu. In this book, you will delve into the mindset of the ninja, learning about their philosophy, principles, and mental discipline. Discover the physical conditioning required to become a true ninja, including strength training, agility exercises, and stealthy movement techniques. Explore the fundamentals of ninjutsu, including basic stances, hand-to-hand combat techniques, and various strikes, kicks, and throws. Uncover the secrets of traditional ninja weapons, such as swords, knives, throwing stars, and how to effectively utilize them. Gain insight into the tactical awareness of a ninja, including camouflage and disguise, observation skills, escape and evasion tactics, as well as ambush and assassination strategies. Learn about the practical applications of ninjutsu in modern times, adapting it to contemporary challenges and considering ethical considerations. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Art of the Ninja Chapter 2: The Ninja Mindset Chapter 3: Physical Conditioning Chapter 4: Fundamentals of Ninjutsu Chapter 5: Weapons of the Ninja Chapter 6: Tactical Awareness Chapter 7: Ninjutsu in Action Chapter 8: Advanced Ninjutsu Techniques Chapter 9: The Modern Ninja Chapter 10: The Path of the Ninja

The samurai, the legendary warriors of Japan, have captivated the imagination of people around the world with their unwavering loyalty, indomitable spirit, and peerless skill in combat. In this book, we embark on a captivating journey through time to explore the rich and storied history of the samurai. From their origins as noble warriors to their role in shaping Japan's destiny, we delve into the samurai's way of life, their philosophy, and their profound influence on the course of Japanese history. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Origins of the Samurai Chapter 2: The Code of Bushido Chapter 3: The Age of Warring States Chapter 4: The Tokugawa Era: Peace and Unification Chapter 5: The Twilight of the Samurai Chapter 6: Legends and Legacy

In an era driven by technological advancements, cloud computing has emerged as a transformative force, revolutionizing the way individuals, businesses, and organizations operate. This book, "Cloud Computing: Harnessing the Power of the Digital Skies," aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and leveraging the potential of cloud computing. Whether you are a curious reader, an aspiring cloud professional, or an industry veteran seeking to deepen your knowledge, this book will equip you with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the cloud landscape confidently. Chapters included: Chapter 1: The Cloud Computing Paradigm Chapter 2: Cloud Service Models Chapter 3: Cloud Deployment Models Chapter 4: Cloud Architecture and Design Chapter 5: Cloud Security and Privacy Chapter 6: Cloud Storage and Databases Chapter 7: Cloud Networking and Connectivity Chapter 8: Cloud Migration and Management Chapter 9: Emerging Trends in Cloud Computing Chapter 10: The Future of Cloud Computing

In this book, we explore the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, from its inception to its present-day applications and potential future implications. By examining the fundamental concepts, algorithms, and techniques, we aim to demystify AI and provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of this rapidly evolving field. We also delve into the ethical and societal considerations surrounding AI, ensuring that readers grasp both the promises and challenges associated with its implementation. Whether you are a novice curious about AI or a seasoned professional seeking deeper insights, this book will serve as a valuable resource, shedding light on the rise of machines and their impact on our world. Chapters included: Chapter 1: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Chapter 2: The Fundamentals of AI Chapter 3: Machine Learning Algorithms Chapter 4: Deep Learning Chapter 5: Natural Language Processing Chapter 6: Robotics and AI Chapter 7: AI and Society Chapter 8: Future of AI Chapter 9: Ethical and Legal Implications Chapter 10: AI and Human Collaboration Chapter 11: The Philosophy of AI Chapter 12: Conclusion

In this book, we will explore practical strategies, timeless principles, and innovative ideas to help you create and grow wealth. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or seeking to enhance your existing wealth, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive roadmap to make money in today's dynamic world. Chapters included: Chapter 1: Laying the Foundation Chapter 2: Building Multiple Streams of Income Chapter 3: Mastering Financial Literacy Chapter 4: Embracing the Digital Age Chapter 5: Navigating Real Estate and Property Investment Chapter 6: Building Wealth for the Long Term

This book aims to provide a comprehensive and practical guide to mastering Python programming. It covers the fundamental concepts of Python, ranging from basic syntax to advanced topics such as object-oriented programming, web development, data science, and machine learning. The book also explores popular Python libraries and frameworks, along with best practices for writing efficient and maintainable code. Chapters included: Chapter1. Introduction to Python Chapter2. Python Basics Chapter3. Data Structures Chapter4. Object-Oriented Programming in Python Chapter5. Python Libraries and Modules Chapter6. Advanced Python Concepts Chapter7. Web Development with Python Chapter8. Data Science and Machine Learning with Python Chapter9. Python in the Cloud Chapter10. Best Practices and Tips Chapter11. Future Trends and Beyond Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, this book will serve as a valuable resource to enhance your Python programming skills and explore its vast ecosystem.

"Mastering PowerShell: Unleashing the Power of Automation" guides you through the complex world of PowerShell scripting and automation. This book, written for both rookie and expert administrators, will provide you with the information and abilities you need to fully utilise PowerShell and revolutionise your IT infrastructure. Real-world examples and practical exercises reinforce your learning and help you apply PowerShell to your own IT systems throughout the book. Whether you're in charge of a small network or a huge organisation, this book will help you optimise your operations, remove manual duties, and achieve unprecedented levels of productivity and efficiency. Chapters included: Chapter 1: Introduction to PowerShell Chapter 2: Getting Started with PowerShell Chapter 3: Working with Variables and Data Types Chapter 4: Controlling Flow with PowerShell Chapter 5: Managing Files and Folders Chapter 6: Automating Tasks with PowerShell Scripts Chapter 7: Working with PowerShell Modules Chapter 8: Working with the Registry and the Environment Chapter 9: PowerShell Remoting and Background Jobs Chapter 10: Managing Active Directory with PowerShell Chapter 11: PowerShell and Scripting for DevOps Chapter 12: PowerShell for Reporting and Monitoring Chapter 13: PowerShell for Security and Compliance Chapter 14: Extending PowerShell with .NET and APIs Chapter 15: Advanced PowerShell Techniques and Tools Chapter 16: PowerShell in the Future "Mastering PowerShell: Unleashing the Power of Automation" is your guide to learning PowerShell automation. Join the ranks of IT administrators and automation enthusiasts who have transformed their IT environments and become PowerShell SMEs. Use PowerShell to alter the way you manage and automate your systems.

"This fresh, comprehensive study of ancient Greek atheism aims to dismantle the current consensus that atheism was 'unthinkable' in ancient Greece, demonstrating instead that atheism was not only thinkable but inextricably embedded in the Greek religious environment. Through careful analysis of a wide range of source material provided in modern English translation, and drawing on philosophy, theology, sociology, and other disciplines, Ford unpicks a two and a half thousand-year history of marginalisation, clearing the way for a new analysis. He lays out in clear terms the nature and form of ancient Greek atheism as the ancient Greeks conceived of it, through a series of themes and lenses. Topics such as religious socialisation, the interaction of atheist philosophy and theology, identity formation through alterity, and the use of atheism in scapegoating are considered not only in broad terms, using a synthesis of modern scholarship to mark out an overview in line with modern consensus, but also by drawing on the unique perspective of ancient atheism Ford is able to provide innovative theories about a range of subjects. Atheism at the Agora is of interest to students and scholars in Classics, particularly Greek religion and culture, as well as those studying atheism in other historical and contemporary areas, religious studies, philosophy, and theology"--

This paper first surveys the approaches taken by the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China in their "information war" of propaganda and disinformation against the United States and the Western democracies, outlining the main themes of their strategic narratives, describing key differences between them, and explaining how these differing approaches fit into each country's geopolitical strategy. China's narrative is described as a "replacement" narrative that aims to tell a consistent narrative about the Chinese Communist Party and about China, which it desires that others believe. By contrast, the Russian approach to outward-facing messaging is devoted more to destabilizing others' narratives - by advancing multiple, mutually-contradictory storylines designed to disorient and divide - than it is to advancing a Russian replacement. Second, the paper suggests approaches to help counter these messaging campaigns. For China, this means advancing effective counter-narratives designed to target conceptual weak points in Chinese themes - such as by highlighting "anti-imperialist" themes to developing countries, making it the focus of international cooperation to protect these countries' sovereignty and autonomy and help them avoid economic exploitation by and dependency upon China. For Russia, it involves making Western audiences "harder targets" for disinformation through improvements in "information hygiene," though this is described as being a slow and more difficult task than counter-messaging. Third, the paper emphasizes the importance - in responding to either country's "information warfare" - of addressing some more fundamental problems in the United States' intellectual and political culture. Modern Americans, the author notes, tend to doubt ourselves, obsess about our sins as a society, and think those we dislike among our fellow citizens to be more of a threat than revisionist great power rivals run by cruel dictators. This helps our information adversaries immensely, whether they are trying to foist their narratives on the world or simply to worsen our own divisions and distrust of ourselves. Real success in information competition requires a solid foundation in our own conception of and belief in ourselves, which the author says it is imperative for Americans to rediscover.

Operational intelligence, knowledge of the enemy’s location and actions, is crucial to effective military operations. The Admirals’ Advantage offers a revealing look at naval operational intelligence based on the findings of a classified Operational Intelligence (OPINTEL) Lessons-Learned Project and a 1998 Symposium at the Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center. Participants included senior intelligence and operational leaders who explored the evolution and significance of OPINTEL since World War II. Past and current practices were examined with inputs from fleet and shore commands and insights from interviews and correspondence with senior flag officers and intelligence professionals.

Zozimos efforts to reclaim the Sticathan royal throne from his stepmother lead him out to sea, where he faces new obstacles in the forms of mercenary centaurs and giant boar gods.