In Praise of Public Life

by Joseph I. Lieberman

In an effort to alleviate the negativity surrounding politics, a United States senator offers a vigorous defense of the benefits and virtues of the public life, discussing issues of standards, partisanship, big money, and the current political climate.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics

176 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2000

Reviews

[Cliff]

This was written, oddly, early in 2000 when Joe Lieberman was not yet a candidate for Vice President. I don't know if he was angling for it or not, in many ways this is a typical campaign book. But in some ways, it's not. Lieberman makes no apologies for being a lifelong politician, by this point he'd been a State Senator for 10 years, a state Attorney General for 6, and a Senator for 12, and instead talks about his path through these times, his public philosophy, and how some of these things affect his decisions.

It's a modest and straightforward book, while still being interesting, much like Lieberman himself. While it's far from a great book, its better than you'd think for the sort of book it is.

[Mjklin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good overview of the life of a politician. Lieberman seeks to give hope to aspiring politicos, in spite of the colossal amounts of money needed to seek office nowadays and the often unwelcome attention from the media. He gives his career in brief and offers it as an example of the possibility of defeating incumbents, which he did twice for important offices.

He recommends reforms for political office seeking, and champions community values over the recent overemphasis on individual self-expression. He thinks we are in a new spiritual awakening, represented by a new emphasis on religion (Lieberman seems to see no difference between religious faiths).

[Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a signed, personalized copy.

This is a wonderful manual of sorts for sustaining a high ethical standard while serving in public office. It is about how to remain true to your personal and professional beliefs and obligations, even when there is pressure to compromise or take the easy path.

Anyone interested in public service or elected office should read this book. We've made it a gift to friends of ours in just such instances.

[Mark Heydlauff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was impressed with the honesty and sincerity that Lieberman showed in writing this book. He obviously cares deeply about the United States and believes strongly in the call for citizens to become active in their communities.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty good read for someone interested in the political life. Gives an interesting insider's perspective on issues that senators face and the lifestyle of a senator. My favorite parts were when the author spoke of how his religious beliefs affect his role as a public servant.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Joe Liberman wrote the work to portray his life in public office as a sacrifice in a self-puff piece to improve a his chances of running for the office of president. He attempts to justify making public office a life long career.

[Maxo Marc]

I liked it because it showed why service to country is a noble pursuit. He was always looking to serve his state and country.

[Joe Lyons · Rating 3 out of 5]

He did what he promised and delivered his rationale for serving in public life, but I thought it was a little basic, maybe even obvious. It is an easy read, but I didn't get much out of it.