Masters of Deception


Book Description

Rings of seahorses seem to rotate and butterflies seems to transform into warriors right on the page. Astonishing creations of visual trickery by masters of the art, such as Escher, Dali, and Archimbolo make this breathtaking collection the definitive book of optical illusions. Includes an illuminating Foreword by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hofstadter.




Masters of Illusion


Book Description

Many legal theorists and judges agree on one major premise in the field of law and religion: that religion clause jurisprudence is in a state of disarray and has been for some time. In Masters of Illusion, Frank S. Ravitch provocatively contends that both hard originalism (a strict focus on the intent of the Framers) and neutrality are illusory in religion clause jurisprudence, the former because it cannot live up to its promise for either side in the debate and the latter because it is simply impossible in the religion clause context. Yet these two principles have been used in almost every Supreme Court decision addressing religion clause questions. Ravitch unpacks the various principles of religion clause interpretation, drawing on contemporary debates such as school prayer and displaying the Ten Commandments on courthouses, to demonstrate that the neutrality principle does not work in a pluralistic society. When defined by large, overarching principles of equality and liberty, neutrality fails to account for differences between groups and individuals. If, however, the Court drew on a variety of principles instead of a single notion of neutrality to decide whether or not laws facilitated or discouraged religious practices, the result could be a more equitable approach to religion clause cases.




Masters of Illusion


Book Description

This is a history of the World Bank, which was set up in 1945 with the pledge to narrow the gap between the First and Third Worlds, but which has done nothing of the sort. The author argues that the Bank's bureaucrats, insulated from public scrutiny, are guilty of overlooking the human equation.




Masters of Illusion


Book Description

Assesses the forces that will buffet the United States and the global order through 2050.




Houdini


Book Description

This biography of famed magician and illusionist Harry Houdini explores how he carried out his amazing feats and exposes the secrets behind many of Houdini's tricks. The author cites Houdini's brilliance, physical dexterity, and wild imagination as factors that made him a true master of illusion. Photos.




Master of Illusion


Book Description

**Winner of the 2014 Global Ebook Awards Silver Medal for Historical Literature Fiction (Modern)** Murder, Magic, Music and Obsession ... Master of Illusion follows the lives of childhood comrades, Angel and Elise, as they run hand in hand from a history of treachery, heartache and crippling abuse. Under the mask of exceptional talent and in the name of justice, they each grapple with their own damaged version of love and loyalty, while fiercely protecting their terrible secrets. Set in the operatic era of 19th century France, talented dancer, Elise, is discovered by the eminent Opéra Français and is whisked away from a simple life to fulfil her dreams of becoming prima ballerina. Her path is forever changed the day she rescues the disfigured, amnesic, genius—Angel—from a life of abandonment and mistreatment. Angel's obsessions define him: his emulation of the Phantom of the Opera coupled with a latent dark side, develop into a fervent passion for a young soprano. Cast under Angel's charming spell, Elise assumes the role of his protector and nurturer—only to discover that she, too, wields powers of her own: persuasion and contrivance. In trying to reach the pinnacle of operatic success, Angel and Elise are faced with the challenge of defining justice, love and self acceptance. Through abandonment, Angel knows only one form of love—obsession; and Elise, whose purity lies in ruins at the hands of evil, is raped of her capacity for romantic love. Can they fulfil their childhood dreams without blood on their hands? ...




Men, Makeup & Monsters


Book Description

Hollywood's Masters of Illusion and F/X Cinema is illusion, and the 12 masters of magic to be found in this book are the best to be found in Hollywood. The films featured include: Terminator Two, Aliens, Living Dead, Hellraiser, Jurassic Park, The Fly, The Exorcist and many more. Ideal interested in learning the craft of movie make-up or for film buffs who want to know how its all done. Foreword by Clive Barker.




Masters of Illusion in the Garden of Time


Book Description

Sundown, a freewheeling artist of note enters into a state of dispare he cannot shake. He seeks alternative answers from a Dr.Shinto. under hypogensis Sundown enters the land of the path. Four warrior, priests of the order of the dwellers of the threshold descend into matter in that realm, carrying the great artifact the yeshe. Vows are broken and the barer of the yeshe hides with it as it consumes him in dialbo cave. Sundown is captured by one of these beings and in time escapes. Continuing on the path he meets his mentor Toshin. He is trained and excels in ancient survival and defensive techniques. Under Toshins guidance they assault dialbo cave an a attempt to retrieve the yeshe and place it where it can do no more harm. So the saga begins. In time Sundown returns to the present day reality. Slowly the world slips into cataclysm. Sundown and company enter 2400 B.C. In an attempt, in the past to alter the present and avoid the coming mass destruction that is upon most of the world. Yet, none of them are safe from danger from within or without.




The Knowledge Illusion


Book Description

“The Knowledge Illusion is filled with insights on how we should deal with our individual ignorance and collective wisdom.” —Steven Pinker We all think we know more than we actually do. Humans have built hugely complex societies and technologies, but most of us don’t even know how a pen or a toilet works. How have we achieved so much despite understanding so little? Cognitive scientists Steven Sloman and Philip Fernbach argue that we survive and thrive despite our mental shortcomings because we live in a rich community of knowledge. The key to our intelligence lies in the people and things around us. We’re constantly drawing on information and expertise stored outside our heads: in our bodies, our environment, our possessions, and the community with which we interact—and usually we don’t even realize we’re doing it. The human mind is both brilliant and pathetic. We have mastered fire, created democratic institutions, stood on the moon, and sequenced our genome. And yet each of us is error prone, sometimes irrational, and often ignorant. The fundamentally communal nature of intelligence and knowledge explains why we often assume we know more than we really do, why political opinions and false beliefs are so hard to change, and why individual-oriented approaches to education and management frequently fail. But our collaborative minds also enable us to do amazing things. The Knowledge Illusion contends that true genius can be found in the ways we create intelligence using the community around us.




COMPLETE COURSE IN MAGIC AND ILLUSIONISM


Book Description

Unlock the secrets of the mysterious world of magic and illusionism with this comprehensive guide, designed for aspiring magicians and enthusiasts alike. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the art of magic, from the fundamentals to advanced techniques that will captivate and amaze any audience. Beginning with the history and evolution of magic, you'll delve into the rich traditions that have shaped this ancient craft. The course covers a wide range of magic styles, including close-up magic, stage magic, mentalism, and sleight of hand. Each chapter is filled with detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips to help you master a variety of illusions. Learn how to perform classic tricks, such as card manipulations, coin tricks, and vanishing acts, as well as more elaborate illusions that require careful preparation and showmanship. You'll also discover the psychology behind magic, understanding how to create the perfect illusion and leave your audience in awe. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced magician seeking to refine your skills, this course offers valuable insights and techniques to elevate your performance. With illustrations and clear guidance, "Complete Course in Magic and Illusionism" is your ultimate resource for mastering the art of deception and becoming a skilled illusionist. Prepare to amaze, mystify, and entertain as you embark on a journey into the captivating world of magic and illusionism!