The thirteen American arguments : enduring debates that define and inspire our country / Howard Fineman.

Author/creator Fineman, Howard
Format Book
Edition1st ed.
Publication InfoNew York : Random House, ©2008.
Description306 pages ; 25 cm
Subjects

Contents Introduction: For the sake of argument -- Who is a person? -- Who is an American? -- The role of faith -- What can we know and say? -- The limits of individualism -- Who judges the law? -- Debt and the dollar -- Local v. national authority -- Presidential power -- The terms of trade -- War and diplomacy -- The environment -- A fair, "more perfect" union.
Abstract Political journalist Howard Fineman mixes scenes from the campaign trail with forays into 400 years of American history, to show that every debate, from our nation's founding to the present day, is rooted in one of thirteen arguments that--thankfully--defy resolution. It is the very process of never-ending argument, he explains, that defines us, inspires us, and keeps us free. At a time when most public disagreement seems shrill and meaningless, Fineman makes a cogent case for nurturing the real American dialogue. Whether it's the environment, international trade, interpreting law, Congress vs. the president, or reformers vs. elites, these are the issues that galvanized the Founding Fathers and should still inspire our leaders, thinkers, and citizens. "Argument is strength, not weakness," says Fineman. "As long as we argue, there is hope, and as long as there is hope, we will argue."--From publisher description.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (p. 252-284) and index.
LCCN 2007045133
ISBN9781400065448 (alk. paper)
ISBN1400065445 (alk. paper)

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Joyner General Stacks E 169.1 .F524 2008 ✔ Available Place Hold