liberalism

Describes the historical emergence of a liberal vision for America during a conservative era. Profiles American liberals such as Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., James Wechsler, John Kenneth Galbraith, Reinhold Niebuhr, and Adlai Stevenson. Documents their intellectual journey, including serving in the war, focusing on the plight of the poor, and creating a sense of hope despite human limitations.

Explores the impact of John F. Kennedy's assassination on American liberalism and reveals why and how the fallout of that event can still be felt today. Spotlights the major events that took place after Kennedy's assassination that contributed to this process and reveals how images and symbols can override fact and substance in the political realm.

Examines the adverse and sometimes antagonistic views of liberals and conservatives over issues such as taxes, abortion, and social problems, and maintains that the core of these differences arise from varying conceptions of morality and family life.