Description
Book SynopsisContrary to those who believe that liberalism has descended into the dustbins of history, renowned political activist and social critic Marcus G. Raskin argues that there is no escape from liberalism. Against the empty-headed and mean-spirited conservative onslaught of recent times, Raskin asserts and ably demonstrates how the liberal purpose is tied to human liberation and inclusivity for all people. For liberalism to succeed in a new century, it must reckon with its past mistakesespecially its reluctance to be bold. It must also embrace the inextricably interwoven character of morality and politics. To this end, Raskin seeks no less than a new intellectual and spiritual covenant in the university, the political economy, and foreign policy. He shows how this is possible through a radical rethinking of America''s role in the world including war avoidance and economic restructuring. He probes the tensions and limits as well as the promise of community, family, and technology. His text helps us recognize the potential of a new multiculturalism within American society and the important role that knowledge workers and specialists will play as change agents in a changed world. Liberalism: The Genius of American Ideals traces Raskin''s remarkable journey of the last fifty years through social and political action as well as thought. It is a book for people ''in motion'' who realize the importance of humane ideas in relation to action, aware not only that peace should be given a chance but that our best instincts must also be engaged through the reconstruction of our institutions. In the face of a new, distinctly uncompassionate brand of conservatism that has shuttered the doors to the very real world of struggle, alienation, and pain, Liberalism is intended to hold a candle in the window of this dark time.
Trade ReviewRich in critique and optimism. . . . This book will be particularly welcomed by readers who embrace liberalism as Raskin does but fear that it has been supplanted by neoconservative ways of thinking that subvert liberal ideals as well as an active, questioning citizen body. Highly recommended. * CHOICE *
Martin Luther King said, 'The curve of history bends towards justice.' In Liberalism Marcus Raskin gives us a long glance down that road. He too has a dream, for which he offers a hopeful, yet realistic roadmap. Raskin lucidly shows how modern militarism and multinational corporations have detoured us from true liberalism, and how we can regain the path to peace and justice. Liberalism is a rare combination of deep insight, apt anecdote, and genuine concern for others—a wonderful book. -- Congressman John Conyers, Jr., (D-Mich.)
Goethe declared: 'In order to possess what we have inherited, we have to earn it again.' We are the heirs of liberalism, but our earning capacity is evidently diminished. That, perhaps, is why liberalism today is so weak. Marcus Raskin, after a lifetime of intellectual and political devotion to citizenship and freedom, has come to our help with a major attempt to rethink both our situation and our tradition. Young and old (and those in between) are greatly in his debt. -- Norman Birnbaum, Georgetown University Law Center
When you read this book, you join a wide ranging discussion with the dean of the American Left on the antecedents and future of the current movement for peace and justice. -- Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich, (D-Ohio)
Marcus Raskin is unquestionably our foremost theoretician and practitioner of liberalism, and in this invaluable book he gives a spirited and comprehensive account of why liberalism remains our best hope for a humane social and political future for America. [The] blend of sophistication and commitment that Raskin brings to his account of liberalism gives his argument an extra level of authenticity. I urge everyone to read this fine book as a matter of civic duty. -- Richard Falk, Albert G. Milbank Professor of International Law Emeritus, Princeton University
Table of Contents1 Introduction Chapter 2 I The Liberal Purpose Chapter 3 II The Ambiguity of Liberal Democracy Chapter 4 III Giving Birth to Third-Stage Liberalism Chapter 5 IV Features of Democratic Transformation Chapter 6 V Cultural Support and Impediments to Liberal Democracy Chapter 7 VI Social Character and the Liberalism of Social Reconstruction Chapter 8 VII Capitalist Economics Fails Democracy Chapter 9 VIII Democracy and the Culture of Technohype Chapter 10 IX The Liberal Democratic Covenant: Everyone Sits at the Table Chapter 11 X Education and the University: Testing Ground for Liberal Democracy Chapter 12 XI Peace and Realpolitik Chapter 13 XII War Avoidance and a Peaceful Framework Chapter 14 XIII Tragic and Hopeful Signs: The Ought and Necessary
