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Passionate Declarations: Essays on War and Justice – A Revisionist Critique of American Ideology for Peace and Active Citizenship
“A shotgun blast of revisionism that aims to shatter all the comfortable myths of American political discourse.” — Los Angeles Times From the bestselling author of A People's History of the United States comes this selection of passionate, honest, and piercing essays looking at American political ideology. Howard Zinn brings to Passionate Declarations the same astringent style and provocative point of view that led more than a million people to buy his book A People's History of the United States. He directs his critique here to what he calls "American orthodoxies" —that set of beliefs guardians of our culture consider sacrosanct: justifications for war, cynicism about human nature and violence, pride in our economic system, certainty of our freedom of speech, romanticization of representative government, confidence in our system of justice. Those orthodoxies, he believes, have a chilling effect on our capacity to think independently and to become active citizens in the long struggle for peace and justice.
368 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2003
57 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Howard Zinn
151 books2,848 followersHoward Zinn was an American historian, playwright, philosopher, socialist intellectual and World War II veteran. He was chair of the history and social sciences department at Spelman College, and a political science professor at Boston University. Zinn wrote more than 20 books, including his best-selling and influential A People's History of the United States in 1980. In 2007, he published a version of it for younger readers, A Young People's History of the United States.
Zinn described himself as "something of an anarchist, something of a socialist. Maybe a democratic socialist." He wrote extensively about the civil rights movement, the anti-war movement and labor history of the United States. His memoir, You Can't Be Neutral on a Moving Train (Beacon Press, 1994), was also the title of a 2004 documentary about Zinn's life and work. Zinn died of a heart attack in 2010, at the age of 87.
Zinn described himself as "something of an anarchist, something of a socialist. Maybe a democratic socialist." He wrote extensively about the civil rights movement, the anti-war movement and labor history of the United States. His memoir, You Can't Be Neutral on a Moving Train (Beacon Press, 1994), was also the title of a 2004 documentary about Zinn's life and work. Zinn died of a heart attack in 2010, at the age of 87.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 20, 2015
Zinn is amazing. He talked the talk and walked the walk. I have such respect for this man and his intellectual achievements. This book was fantastic. I'll admit, it sat on my shelf for a good 8 months because I was worried it would be too preachy. I was wrong. This book is an inspiration - though the chapter on freedom of speech was at the same time one of the most depressing things I've ever read. If you've made it through A People's History of the United States you'll find this a much easier, but similarly satisfying, change of pace.
March 3, 2018
An intriguing Read about the Flaws of government and the U.S Constitution
In the non-fiction novel written by Howard Zinn, Passionate Declarations: Essays on War and Justice, the author explains different areas where the constitution needs revisions and what those revisions should be. Zinn explains areas of the constitution such as violence and human nature, economic justice, and law and justice and uses examples from U.S history and his previous experiences to provide evidence for his claims. Zinn was originally a shipyard worker, an Air Force bombardier, and a professor at Spelman College and Boston University before he moved onto becoming a playwright, historian, and a social activist. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who is interested in how to fix the many flaws with the U.S constitution.
To begin with, Zinn creates many unique theories on government and patriotism. For example, while Zinn describes how liberalism functions in war which he describes “one certain effect of war is to diminish freedom of expression,” and those who goes against war are those who should “be silenced or imprisoned.” (Zinn, Pg.73) However, this is only one example of Zinn’s creative ideas of government and human nature. Another example of Zinn’s theories of government is during Zinn’s section of explaining why the United States’ first amendment would be dangerous if all types of speech were legal, he states that two problems would still remain, the amount of freedom one has is based on how much money and/or power that person has and that if people do not have enough information about a their country, then it would be difficult to express one’s self (Zinn, Pg. 210). So, based on these examples of Zinn’s ideas, one can truly see how creative the author is and how he looks in-depth into these issues of power, government, and justice in society. However, knowledgeable and prepared, Zinn also uses numerous examples to provide evidence for these ideas.
To prove his ideas on government and society, Zinn uses countless examples from his past experiences and from U.S history. For example, while explaining his problems with absolute freedom of Speech, Zinn uses the example of large television networks such as CBS, NBC, and NBC to give an example of how these companies can influence the American people towards bias ideas because of their surplus of money and power (Zinn, Pg. 211) This but one example of Zinn’s in-depth examples of his ideas; in fact, this will help the reader illustrate how these ideas will function.
In retrospect, Passionate Declarations is a great read for those who are curious on the flaws of the U.S constitution and what revisions could be made to fix these issues. I highly recommend this book and hope that more people are able to read this novel to get an idea on how parts of the constitution are flawed.
In the non-fiction novel written by Howard Zinn, Passionate Declarations: Essays on War and Justice, the author explains different areas where the constitution needs revisions and what those revisions should be. Zinn explains areas of the constitution such as violence and human nature, economic justice, and law and justice and uses examples from U.S history and his previous experiences to provide evidence for his claims. Zinn was originally a shipyard worker, an Air Force bombardier, and a professor at Spelman College and Boston University before he moved onto becoming a playwright, historian, and a social activist. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who is interested in how to fix the many flaws with the U.S constitution.
To begin with, Zinn creates many unique theories on government and patriotism. For example, while Zinn describes how liberalism functions in war which he describes “one certain effect of war is to diminish freedom of expression,” and those who goes against war are those who should “be silenced or imprisoned.” (Zinn, Pg.73) However, this is only one example of Zinn’s creative ideas of government and human nature. Another example of Zinn’s theories of government is during Zinn’s section of explaining why the United States’ first amendment would be dangerous if all types of speech were legal, he states that two problems would still remain, the amount of freedom one has is based on how much money and/or power that person has and that if people do not have enough information about a their country, then it would be difficult to express one’s self (Zinn, Pg. 210). So, based on these examples of Zinn’s ideas, one can truly see how creative the author is and how he looks in-depth into these issues of power, government, and justice in society. However, knowledgeable and prepared, Zinn also uses numerous examples to provide evidence for these ideas.
To prove his ideas on government and society, Zinn uses countless examples from his past experiences and from U.S history. For example, while explaining his problems with absolute freedom of Speech, Zinn uses the example of large television networks such as CBS, NBC, and NBC to give an example of how these companies can influence the American people towards bias ideas because of their surplus of money and power (Zinn, Pg. 211) This but one example of Zinn’s in-depth examples of his ideas; in fact, this will help the reader illustrate how these ideas will function.
In retrospect, Passionate Declarations is a great read for those who are curious on the flaws of the U.S constitution and what revisions could be made to fix these issues. I highly recommend this book and hope that more people are able to read this novel to get an idea on how parts of the constitution are flawed.
June 11, 2020
I like reading Howard Zinn because he thinks so differently from me. I found myself agreeing with about half of this book, which gave me hope for removing animosity between the Right and Left in this country.
While I was reading, I was wondering what Zinn would have to say in 2020–a time of upheaval and discord and violence. I hope we can return to power in the people and the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, just as he advocated.
While I was reading, I was wondering what Zinn would have to say in 2020–a time of upheaval and discord and violence. I hope we can return to power in the people and the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, just as he advocated.
January 6, 2022
4.5 only because it can be a little repetitive but really well done and renews hope while outlining work that needs to be done
March 8, 2017
Very thoughtful and important point of view. Howard Zinn speaks from the vantage point of personal experience, high intelligence, and a true moral compass!
November 15, 2008
Good book, don't agree with all of it, but I think raconteur is an undervalued position and it's one that Zinn fit's perfectly.
I don't agree with, for example the claim he makes that Japan had no real plan for defense for an island invasion, when they in fact had a pretty humungous, one. Wikipedia "The Honorable Death Of The Million". If he had focused his argument on what happened in Nagasaki it would have been a stronger argument.
Zinn's whole argument basically focuses on him having a much better view of human nature then I do. It was a bit baffling at times to me. For example when he talks about Einstein and Freud talking about whether or not humans are destined to be violent. Zinn then explains Freud's Thanatos theory, the idea that we as humans are driven by not just the satisfaction we get from construction which is Eros , but that we also have a love for destruction which is Thanatos.
Anyway after explaining all of this Zinn says, "Freud had no explination and could only point to history!"... Huh?
Also Zinn quotes Emma Goldman alot, this might just be the college talking but I have grown to hate people who quote Emma Goldman.
I am wary of people who quote Emma Goldman or Ayn Rand, they're from the opposite ends of the spectrum philosophically, but they both foretell the same amount of douchebaggery.
Despite my rants and bitching, I really did like a whole lot. The chapters on Free Speech, Machielvelli in America, and the use of history especially where all very enlightening and eye opening.
I don't agree with, for example the claim he makes that Japan had no real plan for defense for an island invasion, when they in fact had a pretty humungous, one. Wikipedia "The Honorable Death Of The Million". If he had focused his argument on what happened in Nagasaki it would have been a stronger argument.
Zinn's whole argument basically focuses on him having a much better view of human nature then I do. It was a bit baffling at times to me. For example when he talks about Einstein and Freud talking about whether or not humans are destined to be violent. Zinn then explains Freud's Thanatos theory, the idea that we as humans are driven by not just the satisfaction we get from construction which is Eros , but that we also have a love for destruction which is Thanatos.
Anyway after explaining all of this Zinn says, "Freud had no explination and could only point to history!"... Huh?
Also Zinn quotes Emma Goldman alot, this might just be the college talking but I have grown to hate people who quote Emma Goldman.
I am wary of people who quote Emma Goldman or Ayn Rand, they're from the opposite ends of the spectrum philosophically, but they both foretell the same amount of douchebaggery.
Despite my rants and bitching, I really did like a whole lot. The chapters on Free Speech, Machielvelli in America, and the use of history especially where all very enlightening and eye opening.
March 14, 2007
This book is very intense. Sometimes can get overbearing and repetitive. Some people may consider his views too extreme. He educates the reader on the government (almost as a government as a coorporation) and the administrative officials that apparently hold the American citizens interests as their main objective. But as you read on, you learn that from his opinion, the government is run for the interests of the extremely rich who own large businesses ect. He also educates the reader about war, and why it exists, and what it takes for citizens to get what they need. He touches on racisim as well.
One question that he forces you to recognize, is Who is "We" when the president or other officials give a speach about America, and Who is fighting the war and who reaps the benefits. He also forces the reader to understand what democracy is and how little of it our system truly holds true to.
One question that he forces you to recognize, is Who is "We" when the president or other officials give a speach about America, and Who is fighting the war and who reaps the benefits. He also forces the reader to understand what democracy is and how little of it our system truly holds true to.
June 24, 2011
Zinn has quickly become a favorite author of mine. He gives an honest, factual, critique of our country. This book talks about the unseen and often stubbornly ignored injustices of our country. As a person who is strongly passionate about social justice this book really opened my eyes and showed me areas that need improving in our country. I absolutely love the way he writes and the fact that he has strong facts to back up each statement he makes. He uses quotes from government documents, presidential quotes, statistics that have been declared by strongly reputable sources, among other credible sources, and he gives examples from his experiences as a former military man.
This book will positively change your outlook on society, and the way you view democratic/capitalist governments. He urges us to be critical thinkers, our own researchers, to be stand up citizens (raising up against injustices) and to come together to support one another.
This book will positively change your outlook on society, and the way you view democratic/capitalist governments. He urges us to be critical thinkers, our own researchers, to be stand up citizens (raising up against injustices) and to come together to support one another.
August 1, 2008
I have a serious soft spot for Zinn. I'm not sure if it's simply the fact that in lieu of making you research foot note he simple inserts the entirety of the relevant text or if it's the fact that he has written the only history text books I actually read (sorry Mr. Ryan)
The book walks through a methodical analysis of the War Machine and tears it to pieces from the Machiavellian justifications for war to the failures of the representative government.
It's a good read for a lefty, near communist type. The rest of the crowd might get turned off when he takes a a stab at some our nations most defining moments as unjust.
The book walks through a methodical analysis of the War Machine and tears it to pieces from the Machiavellian justifications for war to the failures of the representative government.
It's a good read for a lefty, near communist type. The rest of the crowd might get turned off when he takes a a stab at some our nations most defining moments as unjust.
June 18, 2016
This book should be required reading for all US citizens. In the United States we confuse country with government. We as citizens owe no loyalty to our government only to what is right. If our government commits atrocities in our name it is a citizen's duty to demand better. This goes to the heart of Howard Zinn's essays. They ask what does it mean to be an engage citizen? What relationship does government have to the individual? How much are we being lied to? What can we do about it?
February 10, 2009
This book was amazing because he is not afraid to say unpopular things and be extra critical of the way our country is run. What i liked most, besides this being an amazing anti war propaganda book, is that Zinn never fell into the trap of "capitalism is bad so communism is good". He was able to be critical of the problems of both systems and urged readers to be critical as well.
January 6, 2008
not as thorough as a People's History but much more accessible. I read it in about a quarter of the time. I need to re-read the chapter about just-war because it's the hardest to grasp morally, but overall Zinn makes an astoundingly compelling case against all war, all the time.
February 26, 2008
This was my favorite Zinn to date. "Reader" and "Peaople's History" were amazing but but could be a bit draining as well, not that "passionate Declarations" was a laugh a minute or something, but it was kinda a page turner if your into the liberal's view of war and ethics.
June 1, 2008
Zinn brilliantly dissects the core tenets of the Myth of American power and virtue exposing it for what it is. His arguments are persuasive, rational, and well documented. An important book for all US Americans.
January 6, 2012
Almost Zinn persuades me to be a liberal/Marxist historian! I found myself agreeing with quite a bit of his writings in this collection of essays. And I enjoyed reading even what I disagreed with because it was so interesting. I took my time with this one!
January 9, 2017
Several chapters out of date due to changes in technology but Zinn's message is still poignant. We keep spending our way to oblivion. I'm afraid the dystopian visions of our future are more likely than not.
Currently reading
July 29, 2007I've only read the first two chapters but so far so good.
September 11, 2007
God bless America...
October 9, 2007
I prefer this to People's History, but both are fabulous.
Read
August 5, 2011Maybe Zinn's best. A stinging critique of how the world works along with advice, courage, and hope on how to change it.
November 7, 2014
I enjoyed the book. All of Mr. Zinn's assertions were backed up by reliable references. Well researched and quality presentation.
February 28, 2025
no one knows the bag we fumbled by not getting this man into the oval office
April 4, 2017
first part was pretty compelling just to think of history in a different way, all the other things that happened that people don't write about or know, had more actionable insights
second half fell apart. also a critique of the author is helpful: http://www.aft.org/sites/default/file...
second half fell apart. also a critique of the author is helpful: http://www.aft.org/sites/default/file...
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews