The American Cause [Unknown Binding]

Russell Kirk (Author)

Product Details

• Unknown Binding
• Publisher: Regnery; First edition (January 1, 1957)
• ASIN: B004PLH1IY
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Americanism 101, May 18, 2003

By 

Steve Jackson "stevejackson100atyahoocom" (New England) - See all my reviews

This review is from: American Cause (Paperback)

In 1957, Russell Kirk (1918-1994) published this brief synopsis of principles of the "American way of life." It was recently republished and serves as a useful introduction to a conservative view of what is uniquely American. Kirk hits on many of the principle themes of American life: the influence of Christianity, the American view of government, etc.

I tend to agree with most of what Kirk writes here. I did find a couple things interesting. First, Kirk's view of Christianity is somewhat "humanistic." For example, Kirk's discussion of the significance of Jesus' death is more or less the "example" theory of the atonement. Second, I think Kirk's discussion of US imperialism sugar coats how cynical and brutal American policy with respect to other nations has at times been.

This is a new edition of this work, which has been slightly re-edited by Gleaves Whitney as a sort of "primer on America, post September 11." I don't have a problem with this, but the previous edition contained an introduction by John Dos Passos. Why was this removed? Also, Mr. Whitney has included a section of "recommended readings" which recommends several works by neoconservatives. Considering Dr. Kirk's disavowal of the neoconservative movement, this is regretful.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I wish everyone in America would read: The American Cause, September 26, 2009

By 

J.Foley - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: American Cause (Paperback)

This book is amazing! It is an easy read, simply enough for middle school students to understand. The American Cause clearly explains the principles upon which our country was founded and which have enabled us to live in peace and prosperity. I think it is a must read for all Americans.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Scholarly but readable, August 6, 2008

By 

Robert Kavanaugh "Professor Bob" (Spring Branch, TX) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: American Cause (Paperback)

An edited version of an extremely scholarly overview of "Americanism" by a man who became iconic within the scholarly community. This is a book which anyone can read - and probably should read!