Liberalism ― The Genius of American Ideals

Contrary to those who believe that liberalism has descended into the dustbins of history, renowned political activist and social critic Marcus G. Raskin argues that there is no escape from liberalism. Against the empty headed and mean spirited conservative onslaught of recent times, Raskin asserts and ably demonstrates how the liberal purpose is tied to human liberation and inclusivity for all people. For liberalism to succeed in a new century, it must reckon with its past mistakes—especially its reluctance to be bold. It must also embrace the inextricably interwoven character of morality and politics. To this end, Raskin seeks no less than a new intellectual and spiritual covenant in the university, the political economy, and foreign policy. He shows how this is possible through a radical rethinking of America's role in the world including war avoidance and economic restructuring. He probes the tensions and limits as well as the promise of community, family, and technology. He helps us to recognize the potential of a new multiculturalism within American society and the important role that knowledge workers and specialists will play as change agents in a changed world. Liberalism:The Genius of American Ideals traces Raskin's remarkable journey of the last 50 years through social and political action as well as thought. It is a book for people "in motion" who realize the importance of humane ideas in relation to action, aware that it is not only that peace should be given a chance but that our best instincts must also be engaged through the reconstruction of our institutions. In the face of a new, distinctly uncompassionate brand of conservatism that has shuttered the doors to the very real world of struggle, alienation, and pain, Liberalism is intended to hold out a candle in the window of this dark time.

Marcus G. Raskin is distinguished fellow and co-founder of the Institute for Policy Studies. He is also professor of policy studies and adjunct professor of political science at George Washington University.

Marcus G. Raskin, the highly acclaimed political theorist and activist, is cofounder of the influential Institute for Policy Studies. He is professor at George Washington University and a member of the editorial board of The Nation magazine. He is author of numerous well-reviewed books including Being and Doing, The Common Good, The Politics of National Security, Visions and Revisions, Essays of a Citizen, New Ways of Knowing (with Herbert J. Bernstein), and The Vietnam Reader with Bernard B. Fall. He is the editor of a ten-volume series on Reconstruction and Paths for the 21st Century with three books slated for publication in 2004.

Raskin's numerous scholarly articles have appeared in major journals concerning philosophy, history, and education. His op-eds and popular articles have appeared in newspapers including the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Chicago Tribune. He has appeared in all major media including CNN, NBC, C-Span, NPR, and other radio and TV outlets.

Raskin was a former member of the National Security Council Staff under President John F. Kennedy and chair of Peace Action, a major peace organization. He was an acquitted member of the Boston 5 draft conspiracy case, on Nixon's Enemies List, and a Fulbright Lecturer. Raskin is credited with coining the phrase, "the National Security State," currently enjoying a resurgence of interest and concern in the midst of Bush Administration policies.

Marcus G. Raskin is a graduate of the University of Chicago College and Law School. He is married to Lynn Raskin, has four children and eight grandchildren, and is an accomplished pianist. He is a resident of Washington, DC.