Subject
Smoking Books
Best books
George Latimer Apperson
The Social History of Smoking
"The Social History of Smoking" by George Latimer Apperson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the evolution of smoking in England, focusing on its social aspects and the changing attitudes of society toward the practice. Apperson endeavors to provide a comprehensive view on how smoking, particularly tobacco use, reflected and influenced social customs and fashions through the ages. The opening of the text details the historical context of smoking in England, tracing its roots back to before the introduction of tobacco after its arrival from the Americas. Apperson discusses early claims regarding who first smoked tobacco in England and mentions notable figures like Sir Walter Raleigh, who played a significant role in popularizing the practice. He emphasizes that smoking was initially viewed more as a pleasurable social activity rather than a medicinal one, paving the way for further discussion on how it expanded across various social classes and eventually became both fashionable and pervasive in society. The introduction sets the stage for a detailed examination of smoking's history, reflecting both its cultural significance and the many contradictions that arose alongside its adoption.
Henry James Meller
Nicotiana; Or, The Smoker's and Snuff-Taker's Companion
"Nicotiana; Or, The Smoker's and Snuff-Taker's Companion" by Henry James Meller is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the extensive history of tobacco, its cultural significance, medicinal properties, and related laws, advocating for the defense of smoking and snuff-taking against prevalent criticisms. Through a mix of factual analysis and anecdotal evidence, Meller aims to enlighten readers about the virtues of tobacco, particularly appealing to its enthusiast population. The opening of the text introduces the author's aim to champion the causes of tobacco smokers and snuff-takers amidst a backdrop of societal prejudices against these practices. Meller criticizes the misconceptions held by detractors, particularly within refined social circles and among women, while highlighting the social and medicinal benefits attributed to tobacco consumption throughout history. He presents a robust defense of both smoking and snuff-taking, positing that these practices foster friendlier social interactions and have been embraced by notable figures across various cultures and histories. The author sets a tone of advocacy, preparing readers for a detailed exploration of tobacco's impact on society, laws, and health.
Edward Vincent Heward
St Nicotine of the Peace Pipe
"St Nicotine of the Peace Pipe" by Edward Vincent Heward is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The text explores the rich history and social significance of tobacco, tracing its influence from its introduction to Europe to its widespread adoption and cultural connotations, often personifying it as 'St. Nicotine.' The work references various historical figures and moments, shedding light on the plant’s perceived medicinal and social virtues. The opening of the book sets the stage for a comprehensive discussion on tobacco, presenting it as a symbol of camaraderie and solace, woven into the fabric of societies from the Elizabethan era onward. Heward reflects on the allure of the herb, recounts anecdotes from notable figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir John Beaumont, and includes the captivating story of tobacco's introduction to Europe by explorers. Through these narratives, the text emphasizes the plant's dual identity as both a source of enjoyment and a subject of controversy, illustrating its complex role in human culture and history.
James Parton
Smoking and Drinking
"Smoking and Drinking" by James Parton is a critical examination of the habits of smoking and drinking, written in the late 19th century. The work addresses the physical and moral implications of these vices, arguing that they have detrimental effects on health, society, and individual character. Parton not only discusses the impact of these indulgences but also highlights their role in encouraging dependency and a decline in overall vitality. The opening of the text serves as a preamble to Parton's discourse, setting a reflective tone on the advancement of society and the concerning decline in health amidst material welfare. He suggests that, with the rise of modern conveniences and wealth, people have become increasingly reliant on harmful habits such as smoking and drinking. Parton laments that these practices serve as both effects and causes of a broader societal malaise, leading to a deterioration in the vitality and moral fabric of the population. Through personal anecdotes and rhetorical questioning, he engages readers to ponder the necessity of self-control and virtue in overcoming these destructive habits.
John Fiske
Tobacco and Alcohol I. It Does Pay to Smoke. II. The Coming Man Will Drink Wine.
"Tobacco and Alcohol" by John Fiske is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work takes an analytical approach to the physiological effects of tobacco and alcohol, evaluating contemporary views and presenting the author's own conclusions based on scientific principles and research. Fiske challenges the prevailing negative perceptions surrounding these substances, advocating for moderate use and arguing for their potential benefits. At the start of the text, the author introduces his motivation for writing, which stemmed from responding to criticisms of tobacco made by Mr. James Parton. He discusses Parton’s absolute condemnation of tobacco and begins to refute these claims by presenting scientific arguments. Fiske emphasizes the complexity of the physiological effects of tobacco, stating that when used in moderation, it can actually be beneficial to health rather than harmful, a claim he plans to substantiate with evidence and references from current physiologists. The opening sets the stage for a detailed examination of both substances, positioning Fiske as an advocate for a reasoned and balanced approach to tobacco and alcohol consumption.
R. T. (Robert Taylor) Pritchett
Smokiana: Historical; Ethnographical
"Smokiana: Historical; Ethnographical" by R. T. Pritchett is an ethnographic account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the cultural and historical aspects of smoking, particularly focusing on the diverse objects associated with the practice, such as various types of pipes and smoking apparatus from around the world. It captures the evolution and regional differences in smoking customs, primarily revolving around tobacco and other substances. The content of the book is organized thematically, presenting a plethora of illustrations and descriptions of smoking devices, historical references, and cultural practices associated with smoking in different regions, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Pritchett highlights the significance of pipe-making traditions, the materials used in crafting these objects, and the sociocultural connotations behind smoking practices. The narrative is not just a catalog of pipes; it is a vibrant exploration of how smoking has permeated various cultures and eras, illustrating the cultural exchange that occurred through this common ritual. Overall, it serves as both a historical artifact and a study of the ethnographic significance of smoking.
Stephan Dirk
Die Cigarette : $b Ein Vademecum für Raucher
"Die Cigarette: Ein Vademecum für Raucher" by Stephan Dirk is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work serves as a comprehensive guide for smokers, discussing topics such as the significance of cigarettes, the nuances of different types of tobacco, and the cultural implications surrounding smoking. At the start of the publication, the author addresses the surprising general ignorance about the cigarette among smokers, despite its widespread use and importance. He contrasts this with the knowledgeable appreciation many have for other indulgent substances like wine. The text details the complexities of cigarette production, including the distinct qualities of Orient tobacco and its mixtures, ultimately advocating for an appreciation of smoking culture and a better understanding of cigarette quality and consumption practices.
T. Swann (Thomas Swann) Harding
The truth about the tobacco habit
"The Truth About the Tobacco Habit" by T. Swann Harding is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the health implications of tobacco use, questioning commonly held beliefs about its detrimental effects on health. Throughout the text, Harding examines the lack of rigorous scientific evidence supporting the notion that smoking leads to various diseases and highlights the complexities of individual human responses to tobacco. In this examination, Harding provides anecdotes from personal experiences as well as references to medical opinions that challenge the prevailing anti-tobacco sentiment of his time. He critiques anti-smoking lectures and outlines differing medical perspectives regarding the effects of tobacco, suggesting that moderate smoking might not be as harmful as often claimed. Harding argues that while tobacco is frequently blamed for various health issues, the evidence supporting this connection is largely based on opinion rather than definitive scientific research. The author emphasizes the need for caution and individual consideration in forming judgments about smoking, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced understanding of its effects on health.
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