Regarding a book that helped me form values that I use to evaluate issues... I first encountered
In Defense of Elitism by William A. Henry about 10 years ago. It's more or less a defense of libertarian/neo-con (not theocon) principles. The book has its flaws - in particular, Henry's love of principal sometimes ignores hard reality, especially in areas of social/historical justice. It's got its fair share of hyperbole, and there are some infuriating ideas presented, but Henry was a smart guy. This is one of the most tightly reasoned and presented manifestos of conservative thought I've ever found. If you disagree with this book, at least you'll know you gave this point of view a fair shot.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Marcy L. Thompson, in an Amazon.com book review
I expect this book is infuriating to just about everyone who reads it. Progrssives will cringe at some of his social policy suggestions. Conservatives will hate his laissez-faire attitude towards things like gay rights. And most readers will feel flayed by his discussion about how to label himself, since some portion of his views appear to be repugnant to everyone.
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If it pisses
everyone off and it's smart, then it's probably worth reading.