It Takes a Family: Conservatism and the Common Good

by Rick Santorum

Overview

Among politicians of national stature today, there is perhaps none more respected as a principled conservative than Rick Santorum. In It Takes a Family: Conservatism and the Common Good, Santorum articulates the humane vision that he believes must inform public policy if it is to be effective and just. An appreciation for the civic bonds that unite a community lies at the heart of genuine conservatism.

Moreover, Santorum demonstrates how such an approach to political, social, and economic problems offers the most promise for those on the margin of life: the poor, the vulnerable, and minorities who have often been excluded from opportunity in America. Santorum argues that conservative statesmanship is animated by a sense of stewardship for an inheritance.

But what do we inherit as Americans? And how can we be good stewards of that inheritance? Building on Robert Putnam's discussion of "social capital," the habits of association and trust that are the preconditions of any decent society, Santorum assesses how well, in the past generation, Americans have cared for the "fabric" of society. He explores in detail various dimensions of social and cultural connection that are the foundation of the common good. And he presents innovative policy proposals for the renewal of American society at all levels.

Throughout his book, Santorum emphasizes the central role of the family—in contradistinction to the metaphorical "village" of the federal government, as promoted by Hillary Clinton—in achieving the common good. With a sustained argument touching on first principles throughout, this ambitious and original book is a major contribution to contemporary political debate. It Takes a Family further establishes Santorum as the leader of reform-minded civic conservatives in America.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781932236835
Publisher:	Skyhorse Publishing
Publication date:	04/30/2006
Edition description:	2nd ed.
Pages:	475
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.25(h) x 1.40(d)
Age Range:	17 Years

About the Author

Rick Santorum has served in the United States Senate since January 1995, where he has been elected to a second term as Republican Conference Chairman, the party's third ranking leadership position in the Senate. As Conference Chairman, Senator Santorum directs the communications operations of Senate Republicans and is a frequent party spokesman. He is the youngest member of the leadership and the first Pennsylvanian to hold such a prominent position since the 1970s.

While Senator Santorum is proud of his accomplishments as a lawmaker and public servant, he is most proud of his role as a husband and father. Senator Santorum and his wife, Karen Garver Santorum, are the parents of six wonderful children: Elizabeth, John, Daniel, Sarah Maria, Peter, and Patrick.

Editorial Reviews

"A very serious, smart work of political science." —Washington Post


"This book is worth taking seriously for several reasons, not least of which is that it is a serious book. . . . Santorum wrestles intelligently, often impressively, with the biggest of big ideas: freedom, virtue, civil society, the Founders' intentions." —Jonathan Rauch, National Journal


"In these days when politicians' pronouncements are mostly the focus-grouped bland hoping to (mis)lead the voting blind, Rick Santorum dares to try to say something that actually matters." —Maggie Gallagher, nationally syndicated columnist, author

From the Publisher

U.S. Senator Rick Santorum believes in family: On his right wrist, he proudly wears a cloth with the word "family" stitched on it. In his first book, the Pennsylvania legislator offers a sustained brief for this foundational social unit. In clear contradistinction to Senator Hillary Clinton's It Takes a Village, he emphasizes the central role of family in achieving the common good.

The Pennsylvania senator explains the difference between social programs based on misguided intellectual ideals (liberal) and those based on a moral code (Santorum’s). His oversimplifications are innocent, and he is not sanctimonious. His smooth rhetorical skills will make listeners tolerate, even empathize with, his consternation. Instead of counterproductive government programs, he wants to improve “social capital” in communities by supporting strong families, involved fathers, community initiatives, and people who use their strengths to work instead of scheming for handouts. He’s resonant, uplifting, and fun to hear as he explains how to empower two-parent families instead of undermining them. Strangely appealing, it’s a noble polemic that will fascinate listeners across the entire political spectrum. T.W. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

DEC 06/JAN 07 - AudioFile