A Passion for Democracy
In this thought-provoking anthology, political theorist Barber (Jihad v. McWorld: How Globalism and Tribalism Are Reshaping the New World, LJ 8/95) has collected and revised 20 of his essays examining the strengths and weaknesses of various political ideas that have shaped American political thought. He often waxes poetic as he argues in erudite prose that America has swung too far to "liberal democracy," emphasizing individual rights at the expense of citizen participation and consent. Barber believes that the aim of democracy should be "harmony" resulting from citizen involvement rather than the "cacophony" that results from libertarianism. Ultimately, Barber claims, this "harmony" is created not by accepting one or another idea of government but by the active involvement of citizens in the political process. Frequent references to classical and contemporary political philosophers buttress the author's closely reasoned narratives. Though not easy reading, Barber's clear, stylistic prose offers readers an incisive look into the ideas that have formed their government. Recommended for larger public and academic libraries.AJack Forman, Mesa Coll. Lib., San DiegoCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.