Cornel West & Robert P. George join Tavis Smiley

In 'Democracy Matters,' Cornel West argues that American democracy is under threat from various forces including racism, free market fundamentalism, aggressive militarism, and escalating authoritarianism. He advocates for a return to deep democratic principles, emphasizing social justice, moral integrity, and active civic engagement. The book explores historical and contemporary issues, including the impact of the 9/11 attacks, the role of Christianity in American democracy, and the need for a more just and equitable society. West draws on a range of historical figures and philosophical traditions to make his case for the revitalization of American democracy.

In this book, Thomas C. Leonard explores the original mission of the progressives during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He discusses how the progressives, driven by an evangelical compulsion to reform society, founded research universities and modern social sciences. The book delves into the role of eugenics and racial theories in shaping American economic policies during this period, highlighting the complex and often illiberal nature of progressive reforms.

Race Matters is a social sciences book that addresses some of the most urgent issues for black Americans, such as discrimination, despair, black conservatism, black-Jewish relations, and myths about black sexuality. The book consists of eight essays that tackle these topics with a fresh perspective, combining the love ethic of the African-American religious tradition with the political insights of the Black Panthers. West critiques traditional liberal and conservative rhetoric on race and advocates for a 'politics of conversion' centered on local leadership and individual transformation.