The Radical Center: The Future of American Politics

by Ted Halstead, Michael Lind

Record numbers of Americans describe themselves as “independents” and reject the conventional agendas of Left and Right. In this widely acclaimed book, Ted Halstead and Michael Lind explain why today’s ideologies and institutions are so ill-suited to the Information Age, and offer a groundbreaking blueprint for updating all sectors of America society. Taking on partisans and experts on both sides of the political divide, they propose far-reaching reforms for the way we provide health and retirement security, collect taxes, organize elections, enforce civil rights, and educate our children.

Twice before the United States has dramatically reconfigured itself, shifting from an agrarian to an industrial society after the Civil War and successfully adapting to the massive technological and demographic changes of the early twentieth century during the New Deal era. Uniting a sweeping historical vision with bold policy proposals, The Radical Center shows us how to reinvent our nation once again so that all Americans can reap the benefits of the Information Age.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Political Science

264 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[David Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book twice. It sparked a spirited political discussion in one of my book groups when it was my turn to pick the book. Some wonderful insight into the deep problems created by the two-party system, with some suggestions for change. Not particularly leftist or far right. Perhaps just a bit right of center. (Hey, with the title, they had to be close.)

[David N Fetter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Food for thought

Renewal is needed in the US, and this book is an interesting read on the subject. The book traces previous reforms brought about by changing market, governance and social conditions - an interesting approach that is not intuitive. I would recommend this book to all our current politicians and those considering making a career out of politics.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helped me to understand myself and where I stand; I'm really not 'neither here nor there.' And, there are ways forward to inclusion.

[Broodingferret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book; it was refreshing to read opinions and ideas that were so close to my own and that were coming from people far more versed in the appropriate topics than I, indicating that I may not be completely insane the think that moderate political approaches might actually work in our country. While I don't agree with every conclusion they drew, and they didn't spend as much time on implementation and policy as I might have liked, The Radical Center is well-reasoned and well-written, and I think many people would be surprised to see how close to their own views and instincts many of the ideas in this book are.

[Phil Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed how I think politically and how I approach the history fo the United States. A must read for independent political thinkers interested int eh future of the United States and the world.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

World's Smallest Book Group's review of The Radical Center:

http://omaried.wordpress.com/2008/04/...

[Jeff · Rating 2 out of 5]

Recieved as a pseudo-gag gift from my wife's mother's fiancee, except it was a book I really wanted to read. It ended up being exactly what I expected, which was unfortunate - an interesting policy screed that had a lot pulling from both political sides. Meh.

[Patrick Winders · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had to read it in high school. It's dumb.