The Chinese dissident movement has grabbed international media headlines for several years now. Every new arrest, protest, manifestation, open letter or imprisonment has drawn the attention of both - the global community as well as influential human rights organizations. While the Chinese government stands firm in its position that these are internal matters, many disagree, pointing out that if the country truly wants to be recognized as a developed and open world superpower, it must address civil rights issues immediately. In order to find out more about the Chinese dissident movement and...

Statistics show that a rather wast majority of the general public have experienced certain events that they consider out-of-this-world or beyond scientific explanations. Skeptics say that people simply mis-interpret various signals for something they are not, while supporters of paranormal theories claim that not everything in this world can be explained with scientific terminology. During the last century there have been several notable incidents that have sparked discussions on this topic, yet no unified opinions have been reached - believers continue to believe and skeptics continue to...

For several years now WikiLeaks this highly secretive organization has leaked classified information to the general public, thus aiming to achieve complete transparency in regards to the way political, economical or military decisions are made. Exposing often shocking facts, the organization has been both praised for its work in investigative journalism and promoting freedom of speech, and criticized as dangerous, ill-judged and even criminal. Despite constantly receiving legal threats from the people or institutions connected with the leaked material, this online insurgency movement claims...

Thousands of scientists, billions of dollars, trillions of energy volts there is nothing small or insignificant when it comes to the Large Hadron Collider. This daring facility could turn out to be one of the most important projects scientists have ever developed, providing answers to questions about the universe and how it was created. Critics point out that LHC is both too expensive and too dangerous, claiming that not even the brightest minds can predict what happens when particle beams crash together at such high speed. Supporters, however, say that if the world really wants to get to...

Circling the Earth for more than five thousand times, providing shelter for more astronauts during their journeys into outer space than any other shuttle in the history of astronautics, flying the most challenging missions that carry not only the the hopes and aspirations of thousands of people, but perhaps the future of space exploration as well these are just a few of the accomplishments attributed to the legendary space shuttle Discovery. Its successful flights after two deadly tragedies are regarded as some of the most important milestones in NASA history. In order to find out more about...

For several years now Iran's policy has been one of the main subjects of discussion among world leaders. The country is insisting on its rights to develop nuclear program, however several comments made by Tehran officials have made the global community rather cautious and even skeptical about such an agenda. The United States have strongly opposed this, stating that Iran becoming a nuclear power could be a threat to international security. At the same time, everyone understands that Iran holds serious leverage its natural resources, thus negotiations regarding the country's next steps promise...

Cancer of the pancreas is one of the most deadliest among all cancer types each year tens of thousands of people die from the condition despite receiving aggressive treatment. Doctors point out that the main challenge in fighting this deadly illness is early diagnosis, not ignoring seemingly light symptoms like the loss of appetite. Unfortunately, so far pancreatic cancer death rates have been extremely high if the condition has progressed, then only five out of a hundred people have the chance to live longer than five years after diagnosis. Nevertheless, scientists are working to develop...

Analysts claim that Hugo Chavez the Venezuelan leader has found just the right basis for implementing his rather daring politics today no one can underestimate Venezuela's influence, especially in the power industry. The country holds enormous oil reserves and is one of United States largest suppliers. Nationalizing private companies, repaying debt and pledging to distribute wealth equally are just some of the promises that have helped Chavez stay in power and repudiate criticism. Venezuela has strengthened cooperation with friendly nations, not forgetting to boldly state that it will not...

Despite official combat missions in Iraq having ended, the country is still far from being safe and stable. Insurgency groups, violence and corruption are just some of the factors seriously undermining Iraq's development after a several year long military conflict. Elected government officials need to earn the trust of the Iraqi people and prove that this oil rich nation can develop independently and in accordance with democratic principles. While progress has been made, much more needs to be done to promote equality and freedom. In order to find out more about Iraq, its politics and...

Boxing is one of the most captivating and talked about sports in the world. Its history has seen many legends and legendary fights to determine who is the undisputed champion. Opinions on who is the greatest boxer of all time differ, some giving this title to Ali, others to Sugar Ray Robinson. It is undoubted, though, that these men have broken barriers in more than just the ring they have proved that racial or religious background cannot stop one who is a real champion, thus setting an example for young boxers all around the world. This book lets you have a closer look at the sport where...