The Common Good

The author, Robert Reich, is a public-policy expert who frequently comments on the state of our government. He has served in three administrations and is widely respected for his analysis of the economy and the policies that shape it. In this book, he dissects the concept of The Common Good. This is a concept he uses to shape our ideas of citizenship. He advocates altruism against the current push for a free-market economy. Reich argues that there is indeed a common good and that it is the most beneficial way for citizens to cooperate and advance public policy. He cites the current laissez-faire economic policies as being selfish in that they only serve individuals. The broader society is being torn down by such avarice. The “philosophy” of the novelist Ayn Rand, which is a guiding principle for our current House Speaker, is ultimately nihilistic. He cites current examples of the greed principle in operation and the individuals who both benefitted and were jailed for their unprincipled actions. He unexpectedly lifts Robert Bork out of the cast of selfish characters. He whitewashes Robert Bork by omitting his role in Richard Nixon’s “midnight massacre.” Despite this, this is a most timely offering; however, it may only reach those who already believe as he does.