Mired in self-indulgence and consumerism, Americans have lost their way, argues this passionate appeal for a return to traditional values. Framed as a dialogue between the coauthors of AWOL
—Schaeffer, a founder of the modern evangelical movement, and Roth-Douquet, a Jewish liberal and former Clinton aide—the book asserts that obsession with materialism has produced a citizenry more unfulfilled, depressed and alienated from government and community than at any time in history. Their solution requires understanding that our lives have meaning and purpose derived either from God (Schaeffer) or from the self-evident laws of nature and teachings of great men (Roth-Douquet). Their conclusion is neither trite nor simplistic; it comes with the obligation to live a moral life, respect others (not simply those who share our beliefs) and sacrifice for the common good. Readers who get beyond the authors’ early liberal-conservative sniping will discover that they set a fine example by curbing their ideological differences in their effort to unite and heal a deeply divided nation. (Sept.)
