This is a political science book with a heavy emphasis on science. There are so many graphs and surveys it will make your head spin and a few of them are difficult to follow or interpret. But all of that is necessary in providing supporting proof for the very bold claim: Americans are not polarized. The data, graphs and poli-sci jargon can muck up the reading a little bit by making it a chore but I understand the need for it all.
If I took anything away from this book I took away two things: 1.) Americans aren't polarized as the media would have you believe and 2.) surveys and the data gathered from surveys are immensely dependent upon the questions.
A quote that summarizes the book can be found on page 9:
"A polarized political class makes the citizenry appear polarized, but it is largely that--an appearance."
Morris Fiorina sets out to prove that the people aren't polarized on their policy positions, they are polarized in their choices. Meaning, if two Americans aren't in agreement on an issue they usually aren't too far apart, BUT... the candidates that they most closely identify with are usually miles apart from on another. Hence, when the voters go to the polls the results will indicate that the people are polarized when in reality they only had TWO choices. What Fiorina proved is that we're not strictly red or blue but more purple.
And I like how Fiorina compared and contrasted different surveys to expose just how vague some surveys can be while others paint a clearer picture. One such survey was on the issue of abortion. People are either pro-choice or pro-life (no one wants to be labelled anti-whatever when talking about abortion). Those are usually the choices and it is one of the most polarizing issues in America. But when a survey was done that had six questions on it it told a different story:
"Please tell me whether or not you think it should be possible for a pregnant woman to obtain a legal abortion if
1.) the woman's own health is seriously endangered.
2.) she became pregnant as a result of rape.
3.) there is a strong chance of serious defect in the baby.
4.) the family has very low income and cannot afford anymore children.
5.) she is not married and does not want to marry the man.
6.) she is married and does not want any more children.
The majority of Americans on either side of the debate agreed on at least the first three categories with few saying it should be illegal in all cases and few saying it should be legal in all cases. But the activists on either side that seemingly speak for everyone make it seem as though the issue is black or white.
There are many such examples as this throughout the book that do a lot to dispel the myth of this huge chasm between us all. It is a worthwhile read if just to give you a new perspective.
ISBN-13: 978-0205779888
ISBN-10: 0205779883
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Great, but sometimes hard to read
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