EXCEPTIONAL AMERICA: NEWNESS AND NATIONAL IDENTITY by Philip Abbott

Patti Abbott generously sent me a copy of Phil’s insightful Exceptional America. What better way to honor Presidents’ Day than by reviewing a book that explores what it means for America to be “special.” Through the “Declaration of Independence” to “The Federalist Papers,” to “Democracy in America,” to “Walden,” and other classic American political texts, Phil guides the reader like Virgil in Dante’s Inferno. Many Americans are cynical of “American Exceptionalism” today because our place in the world seems declining. China seems poised to take over the top spot while America drifts into mediocrity with failing schools, gun-violence, increasing drug dependency, and a dysfunctional health care system. But, as the Republicans and Tea Party know, voters love to hear stories about how we’re better than everyone else so “American Exceptionalism” remains a potent political tool. I highly recommend Exceptional America. GRADE: A

10 thoughts on “EXCEPTIONAL AMERICA: NEWNESS AND NATIONAL IDENTITY by Philip Abbott

    1. george Post author

      I love good writing about politics, Patti. You (and Phil) should be proud of EXCEPTIONAL AMERICA. And the dedication to Megan was a nice touch, too!

      Reply
    1. george Post author

      No, Rick, EXCEPTIONAL AMERICA is not aimed at Republicans or the Tea Party. It’s a detailed examination of documents and books that created “American Exceptionalism.”

      Reply
  1. Patti Abbott

    I think the problem is that we Democrats think of exceptionalism as a way of saying America is the chosen or special country rather than that America was formed differently than any other country. It is exceptional in how it came together not like in the city on a hill.

    Reply

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