Description:
Despite good intentions, American federal government polices often fail. Why are Americans, who are richer than ever, so dissatisfied?
One major reason is that federal government policies are often 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 Lenn and Mao, however, did not accept this view in practice. They employed ideas, education and propaganda to achieve their goals. 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 under the influence of progressivism.
This book explains the ways in which 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 "America 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 can cause some of our biggest national policy failures.
Mitch Daniels, former head of the Office of Management and Budget and 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 advisor to the National Security Council and former staff director of the Senate Intelligence Committee
A thoughtful, provocative book 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 School of Leadership and Public Policy, University of Virginia