A #1 New York Times bestseller: A visionary analysis of the degradation of our public sphere and its consequences for our democracy
Nobel Peace Prize winner, bestselling author, activist, and political icon, Al Gore has become one of the most respected and influential public intellectuals in America today. The Assault on Reason takes an unprecedented look at how faith in the power of reason—the idea that citizens can govern themselves through rational debate—is now under assault. The marketplace of ideas, once open to everyone through the printed word, has been corrupted by the politics of fear, secrecy, cronyism, and blind faith. By leading us to an understanding of what we can do to restore the rule of reason, Gore has written a farsighted and powerful manifesto for clear thinking.
I'll keep this review short since many people have reviewed this book. It seems as though Americans are very polarized on the image of Al Gore. You either really respect him for what he stands for, or you hold him in disregard and consider him to be disingenuous. Most people in the latter group probably would dismiss this book out of hand. For the rest, this is an intelligent book that covers not only some dangers facing our society, but an optimistic appraisal of the opportunities we possess to change course for the better. Here and there, the book may be open to criticism of overreaching or generalization, but for the most part it is an honorable effort by man who should receive more respect than he often does.
writes,
This is the book for which Mr. Gore should be receiving all the awards and praise. Indeed, the best of his I've read and the best on this subject. This is a serious scholarly work, well researched, well documented and well worth your time. It's one of those books I've wanted to give to everyone I know. When done with this, go on to "The Upside of Down" by Thomas Homer-Dixon.
The Upside of Down: Catastrophe, Creativity, and the Renewal of Civilization
writes,
A must read for anyone that is concerned about the direction of the country. He does not push a progressive agenda.
