Liberty Defined: 50 Essential Issues that Affect Our Freedom

In his latest book, the long-time Texas Congressman and Republican presidential candidate puts his distinctive libertarian spin on some of the most controversial topics in American politics. He sees the primary battle as a struggle to throw off a creeping authoritarianism, characterized by unchecked government spending, foreign military incursions, and other excesses, in order to recapture the original liberties that the Founding Fathers proscribed. Eliminating tyranny from contemporary politics can only be achieved by embracing liberty and not by relying on failed government programs and misunderstood protections, according to Paul. To accomplish that goal, the tyrannical excesses of both Democrats and Republicans must be reined in. In alphabetical order, Paul tackles an eclectic mix of topics from abortion and campaign finance reform to terrorism and Zionism; the unifying construct being that these weighty issues are "controversial" and "tend to confuse people." He is an equal opportunity critic who doesn't hesitate to underline contradictions emanating from both parties. Groupings by topic would have made more sense, but it's a small quibble for anyone determined to understand how Ron Paul views America. (Apr.)