Our Divided Political Heart Summary

In E.J. Dionne Jr.’s book, Our Divided Political Heart, He explores the various factors contributing to the great political polarization existing in America today. A reoccurring theme throughout the book describing this phenomenon is the perpetually diverging ideals of individualism and communitarianism. Traditionally Republicans have supported the concept of individualism, while democrat favor greater community orientation. We no longer have a Republican and Democratic parties that consists of individuals with moderate ideals. There now exists two opposing ends of the political spectrum with both conservative and liberal extremists. This has resulted in the formation of new parties, such as the Tea Party movement. It is difficult to cope in a country dealing in extremes, thus we must return to a balance of these morals to progress as a nation. The existence of political polarization is undeniable. …show more content…
This develops in a system of totalitarianism government, which neglects all individual differences (Worthen). Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, which was a totalitarian government, many feared the premise of a communitarian ideology (Strayer). Communitarianism continued to advocate traditional priorities of the left; however, it did so in language that was more appealing and less doctrinaire (Dionne Jr.). Amatai Etzioni has been one of the most outspoken proponents of communitarianism in recent history. Etzioni presented the notion of a responsible communitarianism, which serves as a third alternative to radical forms of communitarianism and individualism. This alternative is meant to compose a path between government control and extreme individual freedom. His theories were favored among neoliberals in the 1990s, and specifically gained popularity with former President Clinton, whom was partial to individualism