Fate of America: An Inquiry into National Character

by Michael Gellert

 Discusses America's crisis of heroism and the threat it poses to democracy
 Shows how our national character is linked to an increasingly archaic heroic ideal or notion of greatness
 Explores what would be involved in redefining this heroic ideal-particularly in a spiritual context-as we enter a new era of history In THE FATE OF AMERICA, the United States is examined against the backdrop of the great civilizations of history. From the Founding Fathers and the legendary frontiersmen and cowboys, to astronauts and athletes, and other contemporary heroes, Michael Gellert profiles the development of the American "heroic ideal." He reveals how this concept expresses the nation's aspiration toward greatness and its sense of identity and purpose. He describes how our national character informs this ideal, pinpointing what has caused it to go awry. Although America's original heroic ideal as expounded by the nation's founders had a powerful redeeming and guiding vision, the nation is at a loss as to what this vision means in a twenty-first century context. Through an examination of education, politics, the media, and many other aspects of American life, the author concludes that the nation's heroic ideal is too simplistic and "young" for modern times. THE FATE OF AMERICA suggests what the nation must focus on in its public discourse and in the education of its citizens in order to successfully meet the challenges of history.

Hardcover

First published July 17, 2001

Reviews

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This brilliant treatise on American psychology and sociology addresses the one major issue our society faces today in bold and thorough language. Gellert takes us from ancient to contemporary philosophy to illustrate the destruction of our national character. What I appreciate most is that this book transcends the liberal vs. conservative charade that passes for civic engagement in many parts of the US. The flaws and upheavals of our nation are a reflection of our own failures and misgivings. What Gellert makes so clear is that taking a hard look in the mirror is more important than waving a flag or chanting a slogan.

Gellert is also beyond prescient, considering this book was published before the advent of smartphones and social media. There are few authors who can address the spiritual vacuum of our nation with such clarity and precision. This is a must read for anyone looking for a deeper understanding of politics, religion, or sociology. Tocqueville, Jung, and Merton would all be quite excited by his voice.

[baseball mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is definitely one author who need to write more and more books!