"Incisive and timely. . . . Purdy stands as a calm and articulate voice, able to put much of the current world situation into thoughtful and pragmatic historical context." --
Los Angeles Times Book Review "Offers refreshing insight into today's debates. . . . If you're looking for something to challenge common assumptions, Purdy's book . . . is well worth the effort." --
The Philadelphia Inquirer "A profound thinker and a fine writer. . . . He offers fascinating theorires." --
The Denver Post "Purdy is a surprisingly sharp observer. . . . He has the ability to perceive the mix of good and bad in most things." --
The New York Times Book Review "Keenly observed and brightly reported." ---
San Jose Mercury News
The author of For Common Things explores America's role in a rapidly changing world, discussing such topics as why America inspires both love and hate, how it has become both an emblem of liberty and runaway power, the impact of its export of free market and democratic ideals, and attitudes toward America around the world. Reprint. 20,000 first printing.