Gossip is no trivial matter; despite its reputation, Epstein argues, it is an eternal and necessary human enterprise. Proving that he himself is a master of the art, Epstein serves up delightful mini-biographies of the Great Gossips of the Western World, along with many choice bits from his own experience. He also makes a powerful case that gossip has morphed from its old-fashioned best--clever, mocking, a great private pleasure--to a corrosive new-school version, thanks to the reach of the mass media and the Internet. Written in his trademark erudite and witty style, Gossip captures the complexity of this immensely entertaining subject.

Laugh Louder, Live Longer is a self-help book written by Harry Hershfield that explores the benefits of laughter and humor on our physical and mental well-being. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects of laughter. In the first part, Hershfield discusses the science behind laughter and its positive effects on our body and mind. He explains how laughter can reduce stress, boost our immune system, and even alleviate pain. The second part of the book is dedicated to practical tips on how to incorporate more humor and laughter into our daily lives. Hershfield provides various exercises and techniques to help readers develop a more positive and humorous outlook on life. The final part of the book delves into the social benefits of laughter. Hershfield highlights the importance of laughter in building and maintaining relationships, and how it can help us connect with others on a deeper level. Overall, Laugh Louder, Live Longer is a comprehensive guide to the power of laughter and humor. It offers readers practical advice on how to incorporate more laughter into their lives, and highlights the numerous benefits that come with doing so.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

""Three Hundred Years of Psychiatry, 1535-1860: A History Presented in Selected English Texts"" is a comprehensive book written by Richard Hunter. The book traces the history of psychiatry from the 16th century to the mid-19th century, focusing on the development of psychiatric theories and practices during this period. The author presents a collection of selected English texts that offer a glimpse into the evolution of psychiatric understanding, including the works of prominent figures such as John Locke, William Cullen, and Philippe Pinel. The book is divided into four parts, each representing a distinct period in the history of psychiatry. Part one covers the period from 1535 to 1700, during which time the concept of madness was still closely tied to religious beliefs. Part two covers the period from 1700 to 1800, during which time the focus shifted towards the medicalization of mental illness. Part three covers the period from 1800 to 1850, during which time the first psychiatric institutions were established and the study of mental illness became more scientific in nature. Part four covers the period from 1850 to 1860, during which time new theories of mental illness emerged, including the idea of moral treatment.Throughout the book, the author provides insightful commentary on the texts and their relevance to the broader history of psychiatry. The book is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of mental health and the evolution of psychiatric theory and practice.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.