This book isn't terribly accurate in any important way - as history or prophecy. I'm glad I got it on sale. ( )

A readable, entertaining look at the parallels between ancient Rome and the U.S., Are We Rome? showcases Murphy's extensive knowledge of his subject. His allusions and quotations are far-reaching and reveal a lifetime spent reading about his subject. He is very good on the idea that both the Romans and those in the beltway think of themselves as anointed; he is also very good on the fixers who secure political favors for a fee. He is less engaging when he discusses the borders of the empire and the U.S., which is more of an argument for completely open borders using Rome as a launching-off point. (It's not even a bad argument--what's irksome is that he channel-surfs into another mode.) But it's his book and he can argue what he pleases.

Some reviewers complain that the book sets up six key comparisons between the U.S. and Rome and then backs out at the end, when Murphy answers the question of his title with a ten-page "Sort of." But these complaints seem off-base. I didn't read this to really learn the answer to the question; I read it to learn more about ancient Rome, and I did. ( )

America's top parlor game, is America mimicking the Roman Empire in its rise and fall? And we in the decline? The author makes many good points but you can take heart in his final conclusion. Despite corruption, slavery, military dominance, and inequities of all types, Romans were ultimately fatalistic in their role. Americans, in contrast, despite similar inequities, corruption, and isolationism, have always looked to the future with hope and expectation. As the author makes clear, there is no room for complacency. Excellent analysis and insight touching on many relevant issues you won't even have considered in contemplating the issue. ( )

Looks really promising, is very easy and enjoyable to read and seems excellently researched, is concise rather than wordy - but I just had to give up because I just don't know enough classical history. It would have taken me forever to get through it, researching all the references, and I'm too old for that s***. However, I do highly recommend it for people who come at it already interested in politics and with some background in history.

Maybe a one-question-quiz will determine if you qualify: Have you ever heard of some dude named Alaric, or if not do you understand the Wikipedia article when you look him up?

In the introductory chapter, Murphy pretty much says the book title is a pointless question that he won't answer but goes on to write a very interesting and insightful compare and contrast about the Roman Empire and Modern America and the history of both that is a thoroughly entertaining read. It was full of facts but not overloaded and has a light enough touch to not feel like a dry history lecture. He clearly knows his subject and finds Rome endlessly fasinating and made me feel that way too.