Description:
Despite good intentions, American government policies often fail. One major reason is that they are almost always predicated on the idea that the (only) way to change peoples' behavior is to change their economic circumstances.
This kind of economic determinism was originally the product of Marxist thought. Practicing Marxists like Lenin and Mao, however, did not adopt this view in practice. They employed ideas, education and propaganda to achieve their ends. They were not in this way very good Marxists. But this was not the end of the notion of economic determinism. It has found a home in commercial republics like America, especially those heavily influenced by progressivism.
This book explains the ways American domestic and foreign policies, as well as intelligence assessments, are shaped by economic determinism. As such, their too-narrow view of the springs of human action often lead to policy failures. Too much is promised and too little is delivered.
Review Quotes:
Ever wonder why "the U. S. has been surprised by every major world event since 1960?" Or why the richer American society gets, the less satisfied its members are? Here's a hint: it ain't about the money. Jeff Bergner brilliantly explains how matters of the spirit can matter most, and how ignoring them causes some of our biggest national policy failures.
Mitch Daniels, former head, Office of Management and the Budget, former Governor of Indiana
This important book offers a comprehensive and thoughtful account of how the assumptions of modern progressivism have replaced those of classical liberalism--and the policy failures that result. Must reading for policymakers.
Nicholas Rostow, former Legal Counsel to the National Security Council and former staff director, Senate Intelligence Committee
A thoughtful, provocative analysis from one of the foremost practitioners in our nation's capital. Professor Bergner artfully blends theory and practice and challenges scholars and policymakers alike to think carefully about their public policy goals and how to achieve them. A first-rate piece of scholarship from a first-rate mind. Highly recommended.
Professor Gerald Warburg, Batten Schol of Leadership and Public Policy, University of Virginia