( 6 reviews )
-
Posted: Jun 29 2008
I have been a distributor for Temptations Parties by Adam & Eve for seven years. Contrary to many peoples opinions, I work for one of the most honorable groups of people I've ever known. This book provides a first hand account of a modern day witch hunt. The Reagan/Meese years were very dark days for adult American's personal freedoms. We should all realize and be greatful for Phil Harvey's standing up for our personal freedoms. He spent millions of dollars and fought a fight most could never imagine waging. In the end Edwin Meese's commission, although heavily biased, could not find any evidence that adult products caused anyone any harm. I think an added bonus to reading this book is also that those of us who are working to make sexuality a more positive aspect of life are not all "sleezy pornographers". Phil Harvey started his company with extremely honorable and selfless intentions. In the beginning he wanted to sell condoms through mailorder to fund nonmedical family planning in poor countries. At the time, it was illegal in the US to purchase condoms via the mail. He made this possible. Much of his profits from Phil Harvey Enterprises mail-order sales goes to support family planning and AIDS prevention programs in countries like Ethiopia, India, China and Vietnam. He is a great American, and I would love it if high school kids were made aware of this book. It is a great modern example of an individual standing up for their rights. David vs. Galiath
-
( 8 of 8 found this review helpful ) Posted: Jan 19 2003
I started reading this book because a friend insisted. I finished it because I couldn't put it down. I laughed, became mesmerized, got angry and celebrated with tears of joy Phil Harvey's triumph in court. George Washington may have been the father of this country but it is courageous individuals who are committed to the Constitution even when that commitment gets difficult or even unpopular, like Phil Harvey, that keep it great. It's worth reading this book just to be reminded of that fact.Anyone who is looking for a compelling tale with heroes and villains, a superb overview of First Amendment issues and/or just a great and easy read should read this book. Anyone who thinks the freedom we enjoy is precious should read this immediately and then send a Thank You to Phil Harvey.
-
( 12 of 12 found this review helpful ) Posted: May 27 2002
As timely as tonight's evening news. An examination of what Ashcroft-type first amendment views can do to the individual, free enterprise and the very fabric of society. Harvey's insightful views on everything from organized religion, big government, pornography, to the corporate soul will interest a diverse group of readers including political pundits, free speech advocates, students and corporate players. This is not some passive academic examination. Instead it is the first hand account of an entrepreneur whose livelihood, beliefs and very right to freedom are challenged by an attempted modern day witch burning.All the read of a super thriller. Plus the reality of the governments ability to unleash their unlimited resources and threats of long prison sentences with the scantiest evidence. Few of us have the spiritual, physical, fiscal, emotional or intellectual stamina to stand up for what is right under those conditions. Harvey did it and won...making him an unlikely American folk hero.An extraordinary insight into the possible American landscape when we surrender our liberty to self-appointed/government appointed (and anointed) arbiters of the public taste. Intriguing, insightful, and imperative!
