The Assault on Reason

Gore, Al. The Assault on Reason. New York : Penguin Press, 2007

Review by Mark Schneider

This is a really important book that I am afraid will largely get
ignored. In his own wordy and repetitive way, Al Gore makes a very
persuasive case that American democracy and the US Constitution are
in serious peril. Unfortunately he tarnishes his message by spending
too much time arguing that television is a root cause and that the
Internet will be our savior. These claims may have some truth to
them, but they are rather speculative. However, I find his arguments
about changes in the ways of politics in general and Washington in
specific very compelling and frightening. Equally frightening is the
extent to which we are sacrificing our liberties willingly in the
interest of security. And Gore has some of the best credentials in
the business to document these changes, having spent significant time
in the House, in the Senate, and in the White House. Not only that,
but as the son of a senator, he has some continuity of experience
back to before the Second World War. Skim or skip the introduction,
conclusion and chapter nine, but please read the rest!

1st floor Smith Memorial E902 .G67 2007