By C. Bradley Thompson with Yaron Brook
Neoconservatism reveals publicly for the first time what the neocons call their “philosophy of governance”—their plan for governing America. This book explicates the deepest philosophic principles of neoconservatism, traces the intellectual relationship between the political philosopher Leo Strauss and contemporary neoconservative political actors, and provides a trenchant critique of neoconservatism from the perspective of America’s founding principles.
The theme of this timely book—neoconservatism as a species of anti-Americanism—will shake up the intellectual salons of both the Left and Right. What makes this book so compelling is that Thompson actually lived for many years in the Straussian/neoconservative intellectual world. Neoconservatism therefore fits into the "breaking ranks" tradition of scholarly criticism and breaks the mold when it comes to informed, incisive, nonpartisan critique of neoconservative thought and action.
From the back cover:
This book is a must-read for all Americans interested in defending the founding fathers' vision of a free and just society.
—Glenn Beck
A novel and riveting account . . . that traces a tight arc from Leo Strauss through Irving Kristol to the daily travails of Washington politics.
—Richard Epstein, University of Chicago
A brilliant and important book that substantially enlarges our understanding of the neoconservative phenomenon.
—A. James Reichley, Brookings Institution
This book treats the neoconservatives, Strauss, and other relevant matters with a degree of respect and intellectual care we do not find in other like-minded texts. I disagree with just about every one of the conclusions here, but the book clearly makes the best case yet for them, and gives those of us who disagree a worthy target.
—Michael Zuckert, University of Notre Dame
C. Bradley Thompson and Yaron Brook delve deeply into the origin, arc, and current nature of the neoconservative movement in the United States. Brilliant, deep, and told with authority.
—Thom Hartmann, Air America Radio Network host
(Hardcover; 256 pages)
