Democracy's Edge: Choosing to Save Our Country by Bringing Democracy to Life
Lappe's germinalDiet for a Small Planet(1971) introduced social activism to American kitchens by teaching readers to think globally as they cook lo-cal. Her latest challenges citizens to nourish democracy itself by rejecting the "thin democracy" of private interests and concentrated power in favor of "living democracy" fueled by engaged communities pursuing social justice in the public interest. Although the essential ingredient of Lappe's activism remains unchanged--the power of motivated individuals to effect meaningful change--this book is more self-help book than cookbook, its recipes replaced by bullet-point lists itemizing strategies for getting out of the house and taking control of one's latent political power. Although clearly leavened by recent political developments, this account offers little political analysis that hasn't already been well covered by left-leaning commentators. Yet its concrete, if anecdotal, examples of individuals' successful efforts in their communities offer practical inspiration in a way more theoretical arguments occasionally overlook. Readers ready to get their feet wet will also find the appended material useful, particularly the regionally organized directory of advocacy groups.Brendan DriscollCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved