Authors such as myself enjoy and rely on a support network. Though many of the names below the reader will not find in my references, it is only right and proper that I give credit where it is due.
I first want to thank Dr. Jen Koslow, Department of Biology, Eastern Kentucky University. Her input, emotional support, and patience were invaluable at every stage of my writing process. Audience for my bad humor and test subject for more than one poorly executed recipe, I could not have finished this book without her. Love and appreciation to you, Jen Jen!
I would like to thank Dr. David Fasenfest, Department of Sociology at Wayne State University, Acquisitions Editor for Brill International Publishers, and Editor for Critical Sociology. David has supported my work over the years and his advice, direction, and encouragement have been invaluable.
I would also like to thank my colleagues at Eastern Kentucky University, several of whom I am sure I bored with my discussions about my various projects over the years. Thanks also goes to Dean Sara Zeigler, EKU College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences, for affording me the time needed to see this book through to its end.
Speaking of boring others with my conversation, apologies and thanks to long-time friend, Bryan Swearinger, for being a patient listener and humoring me with his professed anticipation for my final product. It means a lot when friends ask you about your work, express interest in your ideas, and say they are eager to see your results. Friends having faith in you makes it easier to press forward to the finish line.
Finally, though he finds a place within this book’s pages, I must nevertheless thank Dr. Bertell Ollman, Department of Politics at New York University. Though our conversations have dwindled in recent times, the sort of work I do is only possible because of his insights and generosity over the years. My understanding of Marx goes through his work and I will always consider myself his student, though I never was involved in one of his classes. I hope you and Paule are doing well.