Finally, the people who stopped talking to each other in the sixties are talking again, and their points are being soberly and sensibly discussed rather than dismissed out of hand, as was our habit for years. The book thus reads like a breadth of fresh air or a draught of clear water, the more so since Schmookler has over the years perfected a style that is lucid, direct, honest, and accessible. The book's audience is any thinking American, and its issues are timely indeed. Schmookler's cholarship is sound; and the method by which he has put existing positions into play with each other is unique and unprecedented in some ways and, I would add, will soon become indispensable.
Frederick Turner, Founders Professor of Arts and Humanities, University of Texas at Dallas, and author of The Culture of Hope: A New Birth of the Classical Spirit
Andrew Bard Schmookler has written an engaging, thought-provoking book. It offers a welcome discussion of moral values and valuing. Turn off the tube and settle into a comfortable chair.
Thomas Magnell, Department of Philosophy, Drew University, and Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Value Inquiry
Enormously original, both in its style and in its content. The book is unquestionably thoughtful and thought-provoking.
John Immerwahr, Professor of Philosophy and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Villanova University
Americans want a good society, but they have forgotten how to debate about what social goodness is. Andrew Schmookler, a brilliant moral philosopher with his ear to the ground, is just the debate coach the country needs. Debating the Good Society has years of thought behind it, but it could not arrive at a more opportune moment.
Jack Miles, author of God: A Biography
Americans want a good society, but they have forgotten how to debate about what social goodness is. Andrew Schmookler, a brilliant moral philosopher with his ear to the ground, is just the debate coach the country needs. Debating the Good Society has years of thought behind it, but it could not arrive at a more opportune moment.
Jack Miles, author of God: A Biography