Reflections of a radical moderate

the long version

Written by one of America's most distinguished public servants (and the only person to have headed four Cabinet departments), Reflections of a Radical Moderate offers a clear-eyed and steady analysis of the state of our democracy and the growth of cynicism among American citizens toward their government. In a series of inspiring and pellucid essays, Elliot Richardson, a stalwart of the liberal wing of the Republican party, explains how American democracy may be at risk. He considers the compulsive pursuit of self-worth as a principal instigator of social conflict - not only between individuals but also among groups. He shows that the failures of politicians and government to solve problems are in large part attributable to the need to build support among groups who insist upon being told what they want to hear. He dissects the vicissitudes of public service and demonstrates how they impinge on social policy. He is iconoclastic toward misconceptions of government bureaucracy. He speculates on the effects of information technology on the American political process and examines the correct role of America in the enforcement of world peace.