Title: The samaritan's dilemma : should government help your neighbor? /
Authors: Stone, Deborah A.
Publisher: Nation Books,
Year: 2008
Subjects: Altruism.; Compassion.; Self-interest.; Social ethics.; Political ethics.; Public welfare Moral and ethical aspects United States.; Altruism; Empathy; Ethics; Public Assistance ethics United States.; Social Welfare ethics United States.; United States
Abstract: "In this blend of political essay and reportage, political scientist Deborah Stone argues that democracy depends on altruism, not self-interest. The merchants of self-interest have divorced us from what we know in our pores: we care about other people and go out of our way to help them. Altruism is such a robust motive that we commonly lie, cheat, steal, and break laws to do right by others. The Samaritan s Dilemma calls on us to restore the public sphere as a place where citizens can fulfill their moral aspirations. If government helps the neighbors, citizens will once again want to help govern."--Jacket.
Contents: The American malaise -- Seven bad arguments against help -- Everyday altruism -- The samaritan rebellion -- Engines of democracy -- Bonds and bridges -- The moment of power -- How government should help your neighbor.