Customer Reviews: Read 31 more reviews...
 Lessons from our shared past .. August 11, 2008
T. Amerson (Independence MO)
Since this is a commonly shared comparision it will not due to comment . However the book is well written and thoughtfully compiled. History and insight are hallmarks to a interesting subject. Enjoyable read.
Good book but not surprising.. August 6, 2008
Michael Valdivielso (Alexandria, VA USA)
Cullen Murphy's book allows us to compare us and the Romans, in our thoughts, ideals and, sometimes, our actions. With him we compare the same merits and flaws we hold dear along with the Romans. We look at on how we treat ourselves, other nations, our military, our borders, and our brand new citizens. While interesting it isn't really very surprising and, for those who know their history, somewhat boring. A good first read but not really a re-read. Kind of a light read also, so OK for bus or air travel. You should know some Roman history to enjoy it, so it is not really for beginners but too simple for those who already have a small library on Roman history.
 Does the US resemble Rome? July 15, 2008
Richard H. Ernst (Green Valley, AZ)
I first read this book last summer and have been thinking about the similarities between the two empires ever since. Next February I plan to lead a study group using this book as a text. There are so many different issues that are similar like bribery, privatization to all the border issues. During most of the book I was saddened and scared about where we are heading but became more optimistic at the end. Murphy is a beautiful writer and he explains his ideas are explained clearly.
Good Question June 20, 2008
John S. (Baltimore, MD)
Are we Rome? Good question. It's one that I've wondered myself. Cullen Murphy's reply to the question is pretty thorough, covering the fields of culture, foreign policy, the military, privitization of public functions, attitudes towards all things foreign, and America's overstretch in the world. There are quite a bit of similarities between Rome and America, but Murphy cautions us not to go too far. There are a lot of DIFFERENCES too. But he doesn't stop there. I especially found his epilogue, specifically the section entitled "The Titus Livius Plan," to be very helpful. In it, he offers suggestions for how America can avoid the ultimate fate of the Roman Empire. The Empire didn't "fall," it gradually faded. By 476 AD it was too weak to cope with the changed world in which it found itself. Murphy suggests how we might avoid such a gradual "fall." Well done.
America is not invincible May 12, 2008
Tyler Durden
Cullen Murphy has dispelled with this book, the notion that America is a permanent fixture on the world landscape. The link between modern America and the fall of Rome painted by Murphy is eerie to say the least. Though some of the links between the two have some circumstantial foundations, the overall message for America is clear, change or perish. A must read for those interested in American political thought.
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