A national bestseller; this brilliant 4000 year survey covers not only Jewish history but he impact of Jewish genius and imagination on the world. By the author of Modern Times: The World From the Twenties to the Eighties.
#1042048 in Books 2009-01-06 2009-01-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x .58 x 5.31l; .42 #File Name: 0060872586243 pages
Review
48 of 49 people found the following review helpful. Interesting Look at the Attitudes and Perceptions of the Public in Electing PresidentsBy Frederick S. GoethelWhile this is a relatively slim volume in size; similar to a lengthy essay; it is packed with fascinating information and insights into the role God and religion have played in presidential elections since 1960. Beginning with the campaign of John F. Kennedy and ending with the presidency of George W. Bush; the book compares the various religious philosophies of the presidents and how that was perceived by the public.One of the strongest ironies to appear in the book; and a theme that runs throughout; is the change in religious attitudes over the past 48 years. For instance; many religious leaders were opposed to Kennedy because they feared he would weaken the separation between Church and State; which was a fundamental principal of the Baptist religion. Yet; by the time Reagan was elected; the Church had discovered power and was hoping to lower the bar set between the two. In further irony; Reagan was the least religious of the three candidates; and had one of the most liberal records; yet could speak "the language" of the Religious Right more eloquently than the other candidates.The author often refers to speeches given by the candidates and Presidents to make his case. To help the reader understand the positions of the candidates; the author has reprinted seven of the most important speeches by the candidates in the appendix.This is a well written book containing interesting information on the views of those who have led the nation. I think it is an important book for this election cycle and will give readers a new way to evaluate what they are being told from the stump.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Oftentimes repetitive; but taught me a lot.By myselfffI had to read this book as a part of my history class in college. And I must say; I never really knew to what extent religion and politics were related until this book came along. I always assumed that our government was just supposed to be secular; and everyone who tried to co-mingle them was wrong. Yet this book really taught me that religion shapes a person; and that shapes the presidency. The last 60 years of political conflict can easily be explained by the religious swings in America and the White House; and this book does an excellent job showing it. It opened my eyes; I must say.Why does it get 4 stars? Well... it can get repetitive. A few of the presidents were similar in religious backgrounds; yet they each got an equal portion of the book. The major swings of religion were very well explained though. But then there would be a few presidencies without change.I still recommend it though.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A must readBy WillThis short book reveals realities vital to the existence of a free society. I have studied the founding fathers most of my life. The current radical religious right is more of a threat to our republic and the values of our founders than communism ever was. There is nothing more lethal to a republic or democracy than the poison of mingling civil government with religion. This book explains why wrapping our Presidential candidates in a blanket of perceived piety doesn't work. We expect perfect piety from them while lacking it ourselves.
