America in Theory

Abstract

The appeal to a shared sense of origins and national purpose is part of rhetoric of life. Every new item on social agenda--from New Deal, to Space Program, to affirmative action--has attempted to justify itself as an expression of ideals. But historical source of the is a matter of dispute: was it founding documents, New England puritanism, transcendentalism, sentiment of individualism, myth of America as a redeemer nation? Indeed, whole idea of explaining our experience by a single impulse may itself be misconceived. If so, should we continue to justify public policy on these grounds? Drawing together stimulating and articles by such noted writers as McGeorge Bundy, John Diggins, E.L. Doctorow, Denis Donoghue, Gerald Holton, and David Richards, America in Theory examines extent to which our perceptions of past have dictated, and should continue to dictate, way we address problems of present. The essays consider general issues--can we base public policy on an original intent of Framers? Is there an American way? How do you reconcile tension between a fixed tradition and a pluralistic nation? How do our current concerns with theories of interpretation shape our reading of constitution and a reconsideration of past? Norman Dorsen points out that many recent policy debates have reached an impasse because opposing forces base their arguments on contradictory interpretations of past. And John Brademas, former U.S. Representative and current President of New York University, traces history of federal support for education and offers a penetrating critique of Reagan's attempts to curtail this support. In addition, there are chapters on civil rights, foreign policy, Equal Rights Amendment, nuclear arms, and affirmative action. As these thought-provoking essays reveal, myths and theories that make up our idea of America are still evolving, are still open to debate two centuries after our nation's founding. Anyone interested in meaning of experience, recent direction of public policy both foreign and domestic, and futre of America will find this volume provocative and insightful.