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The Point of It All: A Lifetime of Great Loves and Endeavors
Created and compiled by Charles Krauthammer before his death, The Point of It All is a powerful collection of the influential columnist's most important works. Spanning the personal, the political and the philosophical, it includes never-before-published speeches and a major new essay about the effect of today's populist movements on the future of global democracy. Edited and with an introduction by the columnist's son, Daniel Krauthammer, it is the most intimate and profound book yet by the legendary writer and thinker.
In his decades of work as America's preeminent political commentator, Charles Krauthammer elevated the opinion column to a form of art. Whether writing about statecraft and foreign policy or reflecting on more esoteric topics such as baseball, spaceflight and medical ethics, Krauthammer was beloved not only for his penetrating wit and insight but also for his ability to identify the hidden moral truths that animate our politics and culture.
This new collection, which Krauthammer composed before his death in June 2018, features the columns, speeches and unpublished writings that showcase the best of his original thought and his last, enduring words on the state of American politics, the nature of liberal democracy and the course of world history.
The book also includes a deeply personal section offering insight into Krauthammer's beliefs about what mattered most to him--friendship, family and the principles he lived by--all anchored by Daniel Krauthammer's poignant eulogy for his father.
For longtime readers and newcomers alike, The Point of It All is a timely demonstration of what it means to cut through the noise of petty politics with clarity, integrity and intellectual fortitude. It is a reminder of what made Charles Krauthammer the most celebrated American columnist and political thinker of his generation, a revealing look at the man behind the words and a lasting testament to his belief that anyone with an open and honest mind can grapple deeply with the most urgent questions in politics and in life.
In his decades of work as America's preeminent political commentator, Charles Krauthammer elevated the opinion column to a form of art. Whether writing about statecraft and foreign policy or reflecting on more esoteric topics such as baseball, spaceflight and medical ethics, Krauthammer was beloved not only for his penetrating wit and insight but also for his ability to identify the hidden moral truths that animate our politics and culture.
This new collection, which Krauthammer composed before his death in June 2018, features the columns, speeches and unpublished writings that showcase the best of his original thought and his last, enduring words on the state of American politics, the nature of liberal democracy and the course of world history.
The book also includes a deeply personal section offering insight into Krauthammer's beliefs about what mattered most to him--friendship, family and the principles he lived by--all anchored by Daniel Krauthammer's poignant eulogy for his father.
For longtime readers and newcomers alike, The Point of It All is a timely demonstration of what it means to cut through the noise of petty politics with clarity, integrity and intellectual fortitude. It is a reminder of what made Charles Krauthammer the most celebrated American columnist and political thinker of his generation, a revealing look at the man behind the words and a lasting testament to his belief that anyone with an open and honest mind can grapple deeply with the most urgent questions in politics and in life.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2018
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About the author
Charles Krauthammer
18 books180 followersCharles Krauthammer was an American Pulitzer Prize-winning syndicated columnist, former physician, and Fox News contributor. His column was syndicated to more than 400 newspapers and media outlets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 262 reviews
February 9, 2020
How I miss Charles Krauthammer and his insightful articles. He was a voice of reason in a world that has gone slightly mad to say the least.
This book, a collection of his essays from “The National Review”, “The Washington Post”, and “Time”, was edited by his son, Daniel. I preferred his other book, Things That Matter, but this one was a wonderful read also.
Here are some of my favorite quotes. There were so many. Others that I loved are shown below my review.
“The next time you find yourself in the midst of some national hysteria with sensible people losing their heads, with legislatures in panic and with the media buying it all and amplifying it with a kind of megaphone effect, remember this: Remember that a people—even the most sensible people—can all lose their heads at once.”
“Do not misunderstand. There is a nuclear problem, especially in the form of nuclear proliferation. There are environmental problems. And every society has economic problems. But there is a difference between a problem and panic.”
“It is true that other countries, particularly in Europe, have in the past several decades opened themselves up to immigration. But the real problem is not immigration but assimilation. Anyone can do immigration. But if you don’t assimilate the immigrants—France, for example, has vast, isolated exurban immigrant slums with populations totally alienated from the polity and the general culture—then immigration becomes not an asset but a liability.”
“Given our geography, our tolerant culture and the magnetic attraction of our economy, illegals will always be with us. Our first task, therefore, should be abolishing bilingual education everywhere and requiring that our citizenship tests have strict standards for English language and American civics. The cure for excessive immigration is successful assimilation. The way to prevent European-like immigration catastrophes is to turn every immigrant—and most surely his children—into an American.”
“As Chesterton once put it unkindly, ‘Tolerance is the virtue of people who do not believe anything.’”
“You’re betraying your whole life if you don’t say what you think—and you don’t say it honestly and bluntly.”
“He believed in Einstein’s (apocryphal) dictum that ‘if you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.’”
This book, a collection of his essays from “The National Review”, “The Washington Post”, and “Time”, was edited by his son, Daniel. I preferred his other book, Things That Matter, but this one was a wonderful read also.
Here are some of my favorite quotes. There were so many. Others that I loved are shown below my review.
“The next time you find yourself in the midst of some national hysteria with sensible people losing their heads, with legislatures in panic and with the media buying it all and amplifying it with a kind of megaphone effect, remember this: Remember that a people—even the most sensible people—can all lose their heads at once.”
“Do not misunderstand. There is a nuclear problem, especially in the form of nuclear proliferation. There are environmental problems. And every society has economic problems. But there is a difference between a problem and panic.”
“It is true that other countries, particularly in Europe, have in the past several decades opened themselves up to immigration. But the real problem is not immigration but assimilation. Anyone can do immigration. But if you don’t assimilate the immigrants—France, for example, has vast, isolated exurban immigrant slums with populations totally alienated from the polity and the general culture—then immigration becomes not an asset but a liability.”
“Given our geography, our tolerant culture and the magnetic attraction of our economy, illegals will always be with us. Our first task, therefore, should be abolishing bilingual education everywhere and requiring that our citizenship tests have strict standards for English language and American civics. The cure for excessive immigration is successful assimilation. The way to prevent European-like immigration catastrophes is to turn every immigrant—and most surely his children—into an American.”
“As Chesterton once put it unkindly, ‘Tolerance is the virtue of people who do not believe anything.’”
“You’re betraying your whole life if you don’t say what you think—and you don’t say it honestly and bluntly.”
“He believed in Einstein’s (apocryphal) dictum that ‘if you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.’”
March 3, 2020
It’s not the book, it’s me. Truth is, I may not be smart enough to enjoy this book.
January 2, 2019
One, the speech he gave to the McGill Medical School graduation class in 1993 is probably the best speech for graduation day genre, I've ever read. No, not probably. It just is- period.
This is too superb and edited by his son most excellently. It's brimmed with a cup overflowing toward emotion paired with precise logic, and yet succinct in word craft nailing to the logical analysis. It's just too excellent for me to cover all specifics and particulars for the depth here. In both the limits and varieties of awareness that it covers. Core of "being human" truly is this topic.
This is many subjects, not just the political or politico/ economics commentary at all. But the last sections have been included to hold more current and well thought out analysis to the attitudes and juxtapositions that we find ourselves within our 200 plus year republic- more than entire other books have contained. Some I have read myself, for sure- have in 600 pages not dented what his arrow pierces here.
But this is about the summations to "real" and "correct" and "moral" for an entire life's journey. And such a life is displayed! Charles as a person, a husband, a dad- and basically a human. Not just his role model observed either- but his joy in what he held to his heart and spirit. Chess, baseball, ideas, competition, and being all he could be in every moment.
Will he be missed! Certainly he is beyond irreplaceable in his humor, joy, fairness, and pure, pure courage. Not about his physical condition either. Not at all. But his courage to have left a forever studied for and pivotal life work choice (medicine) and taking an entirely different path in mid-age without a net- just because he knew he had chosen "wrong". His wife too. Bravery beyond words.
There is an hour plus long TV program on Charles' life and on this book. It's second best to reading the book. But they have 5 or 6 of his compatriots and peers reading sections between the home movies and the past news' clips of the arena for which his copy speaks. It's outstanding to watch if you don't ever read this depth of analysis. I strongly recommend it.
Some of the tracts on cloning, on the "self-examined" life, and on various other medical and philosophical past theories and uses!! They should be read by any person who holds DNA.
This is too superb and edited by his son most excellently. It's brimmed with a cup overflowing toward emotion paired with precise logic, and yet succinct in word craft nailing to the logical analysis. It's just too excellent for me to cover all specifics and particulars for the depth here. In both the limits and varieties of awareness that it covers. Core of "being human" truly is this topic.
This is many subjects, not just the political or politico/ economics commentary at all. But the last sections have been included to hold more current and well thought out analysis to the attitudes and juxtapositions that we find ourselves within our 200 plus year republic- more than entire other books have contained. Some I have read myself, for sure- have in 600 pages not dented what his arrow pierces here.
But this is about the summations to "real" and "correct" and "moral" for an entire life's journey. And such a life is displayed! Charles as a person, a husband, a dad- and basically a human. Not just his role model observed either- but his joy in what he held to his heart and spirit. Chess, baseball, ideas, competition, and being all he could be in every moment.
Will he be missed! Certainly he is beyond irreplaceable in his humor, joy, fairness, and pure, pure courage. Not about his physical condition either. Not at all. But his courage to have left a forever studied for and pivotal life work choice (medicine) and taking an entirely different path in mid-age without a net- just because he knew he had chosen "wrong". His wife too. Bravery beyond words.
There is an hour plus long TV program on Charles' life and on this book. It's second best to reading the book. But they have 5 or 6 of his compatriots and peers reading sections between the home movies and the past news' clips of the arena for which his copy speaks. It's outstanding to watch if you don't ever read this depth of analysis. I strongly recommend it.
Some of the tracts on cloning, on the "self-examined" life, and on various other medical and philosophical past theories and uses!! They should be read by any person who holds DNA.
November 25, 2018
Krauthammer is a singularly brilliant voice in American discourse. After so many decades, his voice has been silenced. But, in his waning months, he left us all a gift, The Point of it All, a sort of greatest hits collection of his columns in the Washington Post and the New Republic. These columns carry Krauthammer's gentlemanly voice, one that speaks to you with reason, logic, and humor, unlike so many of the shrill voices yelling today from all sides of political discourse. His columns range in date from the eighties through to 2017 and encompass many of the world events that we all lived through, particularly the fall of the Soviet Empire with a barely hearable whimper. But, the columns do not only focus on current events. Rather, be prepared for discussions about chess, about baseball, about burying his father in addition to thoughts about Reagan, about affirmative action, about disabled lifts in movie theaters, about the majesty of the Constitution, and about so many things. Easy to read thought-provoking pieces, well put together, well organized. Many thanks to the publisher for providing a copy for review.
February 9, 2019
Civility, reason, accuracy and intelligence are hallmarks of the writing of Charles Krauthammer and to my mind what our political discourse should be. While I often disagree with his positions, being more of a "central left" political type (depending on the topic) I can only respect his comments and arguments and wish that what passes for political argument today were more in this mold. Few people have his command of the language, the logical progression of his pronouncements and his ability to distill the historical past into a cohesive and rational presentation.
He will be sorely missed. He and his son have consolidated his more meaningful columns and speeches into this volume and it is a worthy tribute to one who contributed mightily to our civilization.
He will be sorely missed. He and his son have consolidated his more meaningful columns and speeches into this volume and it is a worthy tribute to one who contributed mightily to our civilization.
December 5, 2018
I learned that Australia has been the only ally to the United States in every military conflict since 1914. This is one of the many things I learned from the writings of the late Charles Krauthammer. He loved the island of Australia so much that he even married a woman from Australia. Krauthammer used a wheelchair for most of his adult life, and I have used a wheelchair my entire life. He believed that not every place can be wheelchair accessible, but that will not stop me from trying to enjoy life. He points out the Kennedy Center is completely wheelchair accessible. I will make it a goal of mine to go to the Kennedy Center to see a live performance after learning this. I am inspired by the Krauthammer's thoughts about Jim Dickson He is a blind man who attempted to sail across the Atlantic Ocean, but he only managed to sail to Bermuda. Dickson came up short in reaching his goal, but it did not diminish his enjoyment of sailing because he could experience sailing using his other senses. This is the kind of writing that inspires me to try new challenges.
Four Essays on Liberty by a British philosopher named Isiah Berlin is a book that he loved. Four Essays on Liberty is a book encouraged Krauthammer to learn from as many sources and experiences as possible as a young man. People who learn from many different sources are called foxes. People who learn from a primary source are called hedgehogs. I will strive to be a fox. Krauthammer advocated remaining calm at all times. He believed in self reflection, but he also believed that looking outwardly in the world to be successful. He shared this advice with college students in Montreal. This is great advice for people of any age. I really like this book.
Four Essays on Liberty by a British philosopher named Isiah Berlin is a book that he loved. Four Essays on Liberty is a book encouraged Krauthammer to learn from as many sources and experiences as possible as a young man. People who learn from many different sources are called foxes. People who learn from a primary source are called hedgehogs. I will strive to be a fox. Krauthammer advocated remaining calm at all times. He believed in self reflection, but he also believed that looking outwardly in the world to be successful. He shared this advice with college students in Montreal. This is great advice for people of any age. I really like this book.
December 17, 2018
The Amazing Charles Krauthammer!
I’ve been a fan of Charles Krauthammer for a long time, so I’m biased.
Anyone who is a fan needs to read/listen to this book. Much of it is copies of his articles over the years. You will need a grasp of history to appreciate many of his comments, but they are as valuable today as when written.
I have always been impressed by the balance and thoughtfulness of Mr. Krauthammer’s opinions, and this book bore that out even more. He covers a wide range of topics, and you will learn a great deal.
There is a lot to learn about how to live a life with grace and dignity.
I miss Charles Krauthammer. Thank you for publishing this book. And please keep them coming. He had such an incredible body of work over the years.
I’ve been a fan of Charles Krauthammer for a long time, so I’m biased.
Anyone who is a fan needs to read/listen to this book. Much of it is copies of his articles over the years. You will need a grasp of history to appreciate many of his comments, but they are as valuable today as when written.
I have always been impressed by the balance and thoughtfulness of Mr. Krauthammer’s opinions, and this book bore that out even more. He covers a wide range of topics, and you will learn a great deal.
There is a lot to learn about how to live a life with grace and dignity.
I miss Charles Krauthammer. Thank you for publishing this book. And please keep them coming. He had such an incredible body of work over the years.
January 29, 2020
Unbelievably brilliant and well-written. Regardless of which “side” of politics you fall, Charles uses reason, logic and history to defend his analysis. The forward, written by his son, is a beautiful tribute to a man, who lived his life showing us that no matter what happens to our bodies, our mind is ours. His mind is brilliant. To me he epitomizes “fair and balanced.” This man knew history inside and out. The book essentially a compilation of op ed articles he wrote for newspapers and news outlets. Must read.
December 30, 2018
While it’s not often a person seeks out a book of a compilation of newspaper columns, I spent my career in the journalism field (and it doesn’t hurt that I’m an avid Krauthammer fan AND agree with ever position in the book), Krauthammer’s book is the best book of compiled columns I’ve ever read (again in full disclosure, I’ve read two...the other is Michael Gartner’s, a liberal...the two are a great dichotomy).
However, I’ve added Krauthammer’s book to my “Ideal bookshelf,” a compilation of the 14 (originally 12) of the best books I’ve ever read. This book is the best non-fiction I’ve ever read, and arguably, the best book I’ve ever read. I say that not because I agree with his positions, but because it is just an excellent book...and you’ll learn a lot (and that’s the point).
But Krauthammer’s extremely concise writing and gift to make, what to some are excruciatingly boring topics (politics, etc.), easy to understand and enjoyable to read, provides the reader with a primer on myriad topics and a laugh now and then (Krauthammer has a wickedly dry sense of humor). How fun!
However, I’ve added Krauthammer’s book to my “Ideal bookshelf,” a compilation of the 14 (originally 12) of the best books I’ve ever read. This book is the best non-fiction I’ve ever read, and arguably, the best book I’ve ever read. I say that not because I agree with his positions, but because it is just an excellent book...and you’ll learn a lot (and that’s the point).
But Krauthammer’s extremely concise writing and gift to make, what to some are excruciatingly boring topics (politics, etc.), easy to understand and enjoyable to read, provides the reader with a primer on myriad topics and a laugh now and then (Krauthammer has a wickedly dry sense of humor). How fun!
March 30, 2024
This was not an easy book to read, but it was worth it. Mr. Krauthammer is very eloquent with his writing, almost too much so. He makes his opinions about politics, history, culture, sports and science clearly, but also rather lengthy. What I appreciate about him is his objectivity and honesty, evidenced by the fact that I agreed with most of his opinions, but not all of them.
March 30, 2019
RIP Mr. Krauthammer. What a great, decent, and intelligent man.
The book is a compilation of Charles’ speeches and articles. Most are 3 pages long. It made for a great accompaniment to the current novels I’m reading. In between all my novels I’d read an article from this book. (I’m reading way too many books at once presently.).
Charles has a great many instances of doling out words of wisdom. This one really resonated with me: ...”Don’t be afraid to choose, and don’t be afraid to start all over if you have to...Choose what you love. And if you don’t love what you’ve chosen, choose again.”
The book is a compilation of Charles’ speeches and articles. Most are 3 pages long. It made for a great accompaniment to the current novels I’m reading. In between all my novels I’d read an article from this book. (I’m reading way too many books at once presently.).
Charles has a great many instances of doling out words of wisdom. This one really resonated with me: ...”Don’t be afraid to choose, and don’t be afraid to start all over if you have to...Choose what you love. And if you don’t love what you’ve chosen, choose again.”
January 6, 2019
A truly amazing mind. I will miss reading his brilliant essays!
February 11, 2019
The Point of It All: A Lifetime of Great Loves and Endeavors, by Charles Krauthammer, author; David Krauthammer, editor and narrator
This book pays homage to a man with a great mind and heart. The world lost him too soon for he had much more to give. Born a Jew, he remained a Jew until he died. He showed respect for his religion, his life and his loved ones, consistently. He was not a man who vacillated between good and evil; he always tried to be just in his discussion of all issues. Charles Krauthammer could grant lucidity to any subject he chose. Regardless of whether you agreed with his position or not, his essays were always easy to follow and his presentation of ideas was logical. Emotion never dominated his essays; only his intellect controlled the words he put on paper. Overcoming his great handicap with the optimism and good nature he showed to the outside world, was additional proof of this man’s bravery and inner strength. Paralyzed when in medical school, in a freak diving accident, he went on to graduate as a psychiatrist and then became a renowned journalist respected by all who knew him or knew of him.
When he was stricken with Cancer, and he thought he would survive, he spent 10 months in the hospital upbeat and expecting to continue his career as a journalist for The Washington Post and a contributor on Fox News. Sadly, although he made progress, and was thought to get well, his cancer became aggressive and took the life of this dignified gentlemen whose words reached the ears of millions and the eyes of many more. No one who read any essay by him could come away untouched by his love of country and honor. His humor, honesty, morality and devotion to ethics and values was evident in all he wrote, even when the subject was controversial. He was never afraid to tackle the most contentious of subjects. Often, his older essays are prescient and reflect the issues of our current day. They are insightful and easy to read. It feels almost like one is having a private conversation with this eloquent man.
In his essays, there is something for everyone. He is conservative, but with a strong liberal and clear mind. His compassion is obvious, in his writings, and one easily understands how anything else would be impossible owing to the life he led. He covers such subjects as abortion, euthanasia, suicide, health care, civil rights, climate change, disability, politics, the freedom of speech, political correctness, immigration, affirmative action, diversity, social media, dictatorships, totalitarianism, and more.
When Charles Krauthammer discovered that his recovery would not come to pass, he faced it with his usual integrity and courage. He asked his son Daniel to complete the book he was writing. He had compiled a series of essays for this, his last book already. In some cases, Daniel had to make some editorial changes, but knowing his father as well as he did, as close as they were, he was true to his nature. As he narrates the audio book, it is easy to forget it is Daniel and not Charles, himself, reading it. Yet when he gives the eulogy at the end, it is obvious that it is the son and not the father, in the message and in the voice of the presenter.
Every essay stands alone as a testament to the brilliant, compassionate, analytical mind of Charles Krauthammer. The world misses his level headed analysis of the most difficult subjects.
This book pays homage to a man with a great mind and heart. The world lost him too soon for he had much more to give. Born a Jew, he remained a Jew until he died. He showed respect for his religion, his life and his loved ones, consistently. He was not a man who vacillated between good and evil; he always tried to be just in his discussion of all issues. Charles Krauthammer could grant lucidity to any subject he chose. Regardless of whether you agreed with his position or not, his essays were always easy to follow and his presentation of ideas was logical. Emotion never dominated his essays; only his intellect controlled the words he put on paper. Overcoming his great handicap with the optimism and good nature he showed to the outside world, was additional proof of this man’s bravery and inner strength. Paralyzed when in medical school, in a freak diving accident, he went on to graduate as a psychiatrist and then became a renowned journalist respected by all who knew him or knew of him.
When he was stricken with Cancer, and he thought he would survive, he spent 10 months in the hospital upbeat and expecting to continue his career as a journalist for The Washington Post and a contributor on Fox News. Sadly, although he made progress, and was thought to get well, his cancer became aggressive and took the life of this dignified gentlemen whose words reached the ears of millions and the eyes of many more. No one who read any essay by him could come away untouched by his love of country and honor. His humor, honesty, morality and devotion to ethics and values was evident in all he wrote, even when the subject was controversial. He was never afraid to tackle the most contentious of subjects. Often, his older essays are prescient and reflect the issues of our current day. They are insightful and easy to read. It feels almost like one is having a private conversation with this eloquent man.
In his essays, there is something for everyone. He is conservative, but with a strong liberal and clear mind. His compassion is obvious, in his writings, and one easily understands how anything else would be impossible owing to the life he led. He covers such subjects as abortion, euthanasia, suicide, health care, civil rights, climate change, disability, politics, the freedom of speech, political correctness, immigration, affirmative action, diversity, social media, dictatorships, totalitarianism, and more.
When Charles Krauthammer discovered that his recovery would not come to pass, he faced it with his usual integrity and courage. He asked his son Daniel to complete the book he was writing. He had compiled a series of essays for this, his last book already. In some cases, Daniel had to make some editorial changes, but knowing his father as well as he did, as close as they were, he was true to his nature. As he narrates the audio book, it is easy to forget it is Daniel and not Charles, himself, reading it. Yet when he gives the eulogy at the end, it is obvious that it is the son and not the father, in the message and in the voice of the presenter.
Every essay stands alone as a testament to the brilliant, compassionate, analytical mind of Charles Krauthammer. The world misses his level headed analysis of the most difficult subjects.
February 13, 2019
There are a few bright spots here that dissuade me from handing out the one-star rating. Primary among them are cogent and intellectually consistent arguments on medical ethics, which I find to be connected indubitably to the author's deeply held views on suicide. Krauthammer's enduring passion for these topics is obviously rooted in his experiences as both a former medical doctor and a disabled man (or am I flirting too closely with his dreaded identity politics?). Correspondingly, the sense of urgency he brings to these particular debates lends a substance to his writing that is otherwise lacking in, say, his 500-word WaPo paeans to military interventionism. In fact, in a collection of almost 100 articles, I marked only one as being remarkable: a longer piece from The New Republic that systematically dismantles the would-be gravitas of a PBS documentary called Choosing Suicide, which commemorates New York City artist Jo Roman, who chose to overdose on sleeping pills after learning she had breast cancer. This article also scores the anthology's lone piece of biting wit:
Tellingly, this article was written in 1980: four years before Krauthammer committed himself to churning out a weekly fatalistic epistle for the Washington Post and its syndicates, and 25 years before he joined the cast of our current State Media organization, Fox News.
Krauthammer seems to have died content with his life. I do find it regrettable that he did not live longer into the Trump presidency. Although he writes of his loathing for vigorous self-examination and introspection, I wonder if ever he would have addressed what I consider the greatest irony (tragedy?) of America's conservative intelligentsia: that after 80 years of urgently warning the masses about the evils of the totalitarian left, it was their own side that produced the first chief executive in American history to intone from his inaugural dais the classic maxim of the autocrat: "I alone can fix it."
[Jo] considers this act a work of art, "the final brush stroke on the canvas of my life." It is a claim taken with utmost seriousness by her friends..."This is the greatest creative act of your life," gushes one friend. An unkind reviewer, taking note of Jo's paintings and sculptures strewn around the apartment, might concur with this judgment.
Tellingly, this article was written in 1980: four years before Krauthammer committed himself to churning out a weekly fatalistic epistle for the Washington Post and its syndicates, and 25 years before he joined the cast of our current State Media organization, Fox News.
Krauthammer seems to have died content with his life. I do find it regrettable that he did not live longer into the Trump presidency. Although he writes of his loathing for vigorous self-examination and introspection, I wonder if ever he would have addressed what I consider the greatest irony (tragedy?) of America's conservative intelligentsia: that after 80 years of urgently warning the masses about the evils of the totalitarian left, it was their own side that produced the first chief executive in American history to intone from his inaugural dais the classic maxim of the autocrat: "I alone can fix it."
February 28, 2019
How does someone go from Physician to Philosopher? From Mondale’s speechwriter to Bush 43’s advisor? Apparently by being thoughtful, principled, and very articulate. When my booked club picked this I was braced for Fox News in print. What I found was surprisingly open-minded. I didn’t agree with every position but found myself challenged to think.
The book is a collection of columns and therefore lacks the draw of a single theme. Otherwise it’s very interesting. Don’t read it if you never want to change your mind.
The book is a collection of columns and therefore lacks the draw of a single theme. Otherwise it’s very interesting. Don’t read it if you never want to change your mind.
April 21, 2019
His use of the English language is amazing and unmatched. His logic, presentation of his logic and support for said logic is very difficult to refute. His son’s remembrance of Mr. Krauthammer is heart felt and poignant. I highly recommend the book for a variety of reasons, the most important is it’s depth of thought about fast moving, political events where words coupled with thought lead one to conclusions contrary to MSM blither.
July 21, 2023
Fascinating. Krauthammer is a fantastic writer, a deep thinker, and brings a unique perspective to things like foreign policy, medical ethics, and more. Easy to read and delightfully thought-provoking. I love recommending his writing to others.
February 15, 2019
Krauthammer at his best! This is one of those books I need to obtain in paper after listening to the audio version (similarly with his 'Things That Matter').
A few non-exhaustive nuggets:
- quoting Isaiah Berlin, "The defining proposition of liberal democracy is that it mandates means--elections, parliament, markets--but not ends. Democracy leaves the goals of life entirely up to the individual. Where the totalitarian state decrees life's purposes, democracy leaves the public square naked."
- Liberal democracy is the most free, most humane, most decent political system ever invented by man, and establishes the walls that protect our society from would-be oppressors, tyrants, and totalitarians of all varieties, but it does not define what lies inside those walls. Individuals must define their own lives and pursuits of happiness by their own free will and free association with one another.
- The advent of ultrasound has coincided with this phenomenon: Of all the major social issues, abortion is the only one that does not move toward increasing liberalization. While the legalization of drugs, the redefinition of marriage and other assertions of individual autonomy have advanced, abortion attitudes have remained largely static...
- Quoting Chesterton (on the subject of God and church in civil life): "Tolerance is the virtue of people who don't believe anything." But America managed tolerance for almost 2 centuries in what has been called "the American civil religion." The irony is that if we were to take Thanksgiving and the other elements of the civil religion (celebration of the Founders; celebration of civic virtues as embodied in the American experience--liberty, Independence and Memorial Day, sacrifice, veterans and Veteran's Day, service--) as seriously as Lincoln did, the Supreme Court would now probably have to rule it unconstitutional.
- Constitutionalism, or ancient wisdom rendered into legal code, is the ultimate reach of the past into the future. And in America, it succeeded. American constitutionalism says, "we have seen the past, and it works."
A few non-exhaustive nuggets:
- quoting Isaiah Berlin, "The defining proposition of liberal democracy is that it mandates means--elections, parliament, markets--but not ends. Democracy leaves the goals of life entirely up to the individual. Where the totalitarian state decrees life's purposes, democracy leaves the public square naked."
- Liberal democracy is the most free, most humane, most decent political system ever invented by man, and establishes the walls that protect our society from would-be oppressors, tyrants, and totalitarians of all varieties, but it does not define what lies inside those walls. Individuals must define their own lives and pursuits of happiness by their own free will and free association with one another.
- The advent of ultrasound has coincided with this phenomenon: Of all the major social issues, abortion is the only one that does not move toward increasing liberalization. While the legalization of drugs, the redefinition of marriage and other assertions of individual autonomy have advanced, abortion attitudes have remained largely static...
- Quoting Chesterton (on the subject of God and church in civil life): "Tolerance is the virtue of people who don't believe anything." But America managed tolerance for almost 2 centuries in what has been called "the American civil religion." The irony is that if we were to take Thanksgiving and the other elements of the civil religion (celebration of the Founders; celebration of civic virtues as embodied in the American experience--liberty, Independence and Memorial Day, sacrifice, veterans and Veteran's Day, service--) as seriously as Lincoln did, the Supreme Court would now probably have to rule it unconstitutional.
- Constitutionalism, or ancient wisdom rendered into legal code, is the ultimate reach of the past into the future. And in America, it succeeded. American constitutionalism says, "we have seen the past, and it works."
April 7, 2019
Having grown up reading his column in the Washington Post, it was with great fondness that I began this book. Many of the columns I remembered, not just for what he had written, but because they transported me back in time. A time in Northern Virginia when I could sit and discuss with friends and colleagues different opinions, different ideas, all quite peaceably and without rancor.
I did not always agree with his point of view, but without exception, I found him to be most agreeable- a gentleman first, as my father would say. For me, his mix of ethics and intellect were admirable, especially in a town known for too little of both.
I remember reading the opening salvo of the book - the column on new fatherhood - as I held my own son in my arms. It was easy to share and exalt in the wonder of a new life. I understood his passion for baseball; the strategy, the sunshine, the politics, the sheer beauty of a home run, and of course, the always choking Senators and now Nationals.
I miss his voice. His equanimity. His insight. His ability to see the bigger picture. And, his humor.
Here is a man who had every reason to view himself as a victim, and yet, he chose otherwise. His essays on choice are truly priceless.
I long for someone to step forward, to lead out, and follow in his footsteps; not to match his point of view, per se, but to simply cease the nightly outrage, the fake umbrage, the constant finger pointing and self-aggrandizement that now substitutes for news broadcasts.
He was a gem, and his words are the treasure he left us all.
I did not always agree with his point of view, but without exception, I found him to be most agreeable- a gentleman first, as my father would say. For me, his mix of ethics and intellect were admirable, especially in a town known for too little of both.
I remember reading the opening salvo of the book - the column on new fatherhood - as I held my own son in my arms. It was easy to share and exalt in the wonder of a new life. I understood his passion for baseball; the strategy, the sunshine, the politics, the sheer beauty of a home run, and of course, the always choking Senators and now Nationals.
I miss his voice. His equanimity. His insight. His ability to see the bigger picture. And, his humor.
Here is a man who had every reason to view himself as a victim, and yet, he chose otherwise. His essays on choice are truly priceless.
I long for someone to step forward, to lead out, and follow in his footsteps; not to match his point of view, per se, but to simply cease the nightly outrage, the fake umbrage, the constant finger pointing and self-aggrandizement that now substitutes for news broadcasts.
He was a gem, and his words are the treasure he left us all.
February 21, 2019
This book was created and compiled by Charles Krauthammer before his death and edited by his son Daniel. It contains a collection of personal, political and philosophical essays and never before published speeches. A Major essay on the populist movements on the future of global democracy was very interesting. Krauthammer was an important voice in American discourse. He wrote with civility, accuracy and intelligence. I did not always agree with many of his positions, but I can respect his views and comments and wish that more on his side felt the same today.
He covers a wide range of topics. He is a conservative but with a liberal mind in many ways. He covers the topics of abortion, euthanasia, suicide, health care, civil rights, climate change, disability, politics, freedom of speech, medical ethics, Immigration, affirmative action, diversity, social media, political correctness, dictatorships, totalitarianism, and more. He reflects on the Cold War, 9/11 and the Iraq War. He did not like Obama but he was very critical of Trump. It was refreshing to read his opinions about him especially.
He will be missed as a solid conservative rational voice. He and his son consolidated his more meaningful columns and speeches into a worthy tribute to him. Hs writing style can appeal to both sides of the political spectrum. It’s a book that makes you think and reflect.
He covers a wide range of topics. He is a conservative but with a liberal mind in many ways. He covers the topics of abortion, euthanasia, suicide, health care, civil rights, climate change, disability, politics, freedom of speech, medical ethics, Immigration, affirmative action, diversity, social media, political correctness, dictatorships, totalitarianism, and more. He reflects on the Cold War, 9/11 and the Iraq War. He did not like Obama but he was very critical of Trump. It was refreshing to read his opinions about him especially.
He will be missed as a solid conservative rational voice. He and his son consolidated his more meaningful columns and speeches into a worthy tribute to him. Hs writing style can appeal to both sides of the political spectrum. It’s a book that makes you think and reflect.
March 26, 2024
Perhaps the most clear-headed commentator of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Charles Krauthammer was a super-star. While I did not agree 100% with his philosophical and political takes on the world, his insights were so well considered and so brilliantly written, that you couldn't help but pay attention. As a "conservative," his initial thoughts (way back in 2017) about President Trump were like prophecy. He saw what was coming way before most of the country realized what was happening. RIP Charles Krauthammer.
March 26, 2019
This is the second anthology released near the end of Krauthammer's life. Thus you have the "second best cut" of his lifetime oeuvre. But it's still very good indeed. It could be mind-numbing to read dozens of newspaper columns, which are designed to be here today and in the bin tomorrow, but his writing is so crisp, so levelheaded, that it is actually a delight to wade through these chapters. Were they repetitive after a while? A bit, but never annoyingly so--I suppose I might feel differently if I didn't agree with him so often!
Especially interesting were his columns from the '80s. Often the proximate prompt for the column is lost to the sands of DC history, but the underlying issues and concerns are ever relevant. And most of his predictions and fears came true, for better or worse. And it is of course interesting to see his evolution on various issues over the years. Abortion is the obvious example: writing 11 after Roe v. Wade he is far more wishy-washy than he would be years later, when he was more willing to take a stand against the abhorrent evil.
A good read, a quick read, a valuable read, a timeless read.
Especially interesting were his columns from the '80s. Often the proximate prompt for the column is lost to the sands of DC history, but the underlying issues and concerns are ever relevant. And most of his predictions and fears came true, for better or worse. And it is of course interesting to see his evolution on various issues over the years. Abortion is the obvious example: writing 11 after Roe v. Wade he is far more wishy-washy than he would be years later, when he was more willing to take a stand against the abhorrent evil.
A good read, a quick read, a valuable read, a timeless read.
January 14, 2019
I was probably never going to get to meet Charles. Never go to a ballgame and have a beer with him, but now that he’s dead even that fanciful notion is destroyed. And it makes me sad.
I would quibble with Charles on points of discourse but there seems little point in debating a dead man.
My fundamental question to him would be did he believe that had he not been injured would he have stayed a psychiatrist and thus never been the figure he became. In other words, would he have rather lived his life in psychiatry or lived the life in which he displayed such courage.
Part of me cringes at the question bc the answer on its face seems obvious. Who wouldn’t trade a paralyzed life for almost any other life path. Perhaps Charles would have said the same or perhaps he would’ve taken another tack. Regardless, I’m sure he’d have a considered and insightful response.
But I’ll never hear it, and that makes me sad.
I would quibble with Charles on points of discourse but there seems little point in debating a dead man.
My fundamental question to him would be did he believe that had he not been injured would he have stayed a psychiatrist and thus never been the figure he became. In other words, would he have rather lived his life in psychiatry or lived the life in which he displayed such courage.
Part of me cringes at the question bc the answer on its face seems obvious. Who wouldn’t trade a paralyzed life for almost any other life path. Perhaps Charles would have said the same or perhaps he would’ve taken another tack. Regardless, I’m sure he’d have a considered and insightful response.
But I’ll never hear it, and that makes me sad.
October 9, 2021
An outstanding collection of one of the indispensable political columnists, commentators, and intellectuals of the late 20th century and the first 18 years of the 21st century. You could not be indifferent to Krauthammer. Even when one disagreed with him - as I did many, many, many times (especially over Iraq and the War on Terror) - I always respected and valued him for his insights, appeals to reason, and the incandescent quality of his writing.
To read this collection is to be reminded of the power of words and of a time when American conservatism was animated by ideas rather than base tribalism, nativism, and deepening affections for Putinesque authoritarianism.
I give four-and-half stars to 'The Point of It All' and strongly recommend it as the politically minded of every persuasion will be enlightened.
To read this collection is to be reminded of the power of words and of a time when American conservatism was animated by ideas rather than base tribalism, nativism, and deepening affections for Putinesque authoritarianism.
I give four-and-half stars to 'The Point of It All' and strongly recommend it as the politically minded of every persuasion will be enlightened.
May 30, 2019
Having previously read Things That Matter, I had no hesitation in picking up this posthumous sequel. Once more, I was titillated by numerous stories that were either excerpts from his days at The Washington Post or were speeches by him. The man was clearly a deep thinker on issues and, though at times eloquent in his analysis, could likewise be equally blunt in an opinion. It is this dichotomy that makes reading his posts most enjoyable.
It is a shame he is gone, and I will miss his repartee on Fox News and in the Post.
It is a shame he is gone, and I will miss his repartee on Fox News and in the Post.
February 24, 2019
Wow. What an incredibly insightful writer and mind. I have to admit that this is the first time that I've read any of Krauthammer's columns. I always thought he came off well on Fox News, but his writing is so much more powerful. Krauthammer has a gift to pithily explain the opposing view, but honestly. He presents nuance that is lacking in today's discourse.
May 26, 2019
A wide and pretty interesting array of Krauthammer’s columns. Overall, it’s very well-written and his son’s contributions are so heartfelt. I enjoyed the sections on space and practicing medicine and American identify the most. Sometimes I was surprised by his stances and sometimes I disagreed with his arguments, but it did make me miss him and his analysis even more.
June 3, 2019
I need to preface this review by stating that I usually read fiction. I respected Charles and wanted to read some of his writings and figured this was the best place to sample it. He was obviously a brilliant man and some of his essays were beyond me, but he has a way of explaining things that really helped me understand his point.
August 3, 2021
Oh, how I miss Charles Krauthammer and his wisdom. Through this audiobook, I revisited his sage, often funny, words and gained new insight on topics I was too young or not engaged enough with when they were timely. He is an American treasure. I highly, highly recommend this collection of his work.
February 17, 2019
this book is excellent. Put it on your want to read list!
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