America and the Limits of the Politics of Selfishness
Author(s): Sidney Waldman (Author)
Publisher: Lexington Books (UK)
Publication Date: 28 Jan. 2007
Language: English
Print length: 160 pages
ISBN-10: 0739115731
ISBN-13: 9780739115732
Book Description
America and the Limits of the Politics of Selfishness examines Congress, the Presidency, the public, and public policy, demonstrating the important impact of the publics selfishness, morality, compassion, and religious beliefs on the American political system. The influence of public opinion on our democratically elected leaders affects whether our country will be able to find solutions to some of its more important problems. The publics self-love—an exclusive or excessive regard for oneself and ones interests, unbalanced by a concern for others beyond ones family—is critical in impacting the quality of our political system. For example, Waldman illustrates how the public affects the governments ability to solve the problem of failing education in our cities and rural towns. Ultimately, this work reveals the importance of compassion, morality, and religion in dealing with the problem of excessive self-love, with great practical consequences for our country, our own welfare, and that of the world.
Editorial Reviews
Review
Sidney Waldman”s book offers an important and timely critique of the moral basis of contemporary American political institutions and policies. Waldman also offers ideas for moving away from the excessive and corrupting self-love of American politics today toward a more public-centered future. America and the Limits of the Politics of Selfishness is a book that should be read by all students of American politics and by a public that is increasingly concerned about the direction in which the country is headed. — David Vogler, Professor of Political Science, Wheaton College
Waldman provides a persuasive critique of American democracy that is refreshingly accessible, yet richly compelling in its implications. The author believes Americans can rise to the occasion, and establish a politics that is worthy of themselves, others, and their Creator. Highly recommended.
…this may be a book for you. — .
An eloquent and persuasive writer, using the language of humanism while citing social science literature, Sidney Waldman demonstrates how morality and compassion have an important role to play in American politics, and that we as citizens are capable of enhancing the moral depth of our political participation. Remarkable for its vitality, this book effectively combats tired cynicism and the weakness of self-interest models of citizenship. — Andrew McFarland, professor of Political Science, University of Illinois
About the Author
Sidney R. Waldman is professor of political science at Haverford College.
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