The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

[houseelf]

I read an article by Zakaria a couple of months ago and found myself quite impressed by his cogent analysis of the United State's role in nation building. I started this book around 1 p.m. yesterday and could not put it down until after 1 a.m. I told my oldest to put my youngest to bed because mom was taking a night off to read.

Zakaria clarifies the difference between "democracy" (i.e. representation) and "constitutional liberalism" (i.e. civil rights), terms that we Americans use interchangeably because these two idealogies coincided brillantly for us. While Zakaria supports free market economics, he often draws surprising but well argued conclusions about what our objectives for foreign policy should be in countries that do not enjoy great robust civil liberties. He makes compelling arguments for policy objectives in the Middle East.

I just ordered his newest off of Amazon before writing this post. I would love to hear someone else's views on this book!

Kelly

[Sheherezade]

Re: The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

I've not read the book yet but I'm a huge fan of the author. I read him in newsweek and eagerly await his appearances on late night talk shows. I don't always agree with his views but they are logical and clearly presented. I will have to pick this book up soon - and take a night off from mommyhood!!

[migirl]

Re: The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

I haven't read his books either, but I just had to say that I *heart* Fareed Zakaria. I look forward to reading his Newsweek articles every week, the way he writes is so clear and logical and - no matter what the topic - I always find myself thinking, "Oh, NOW that makes sense."

The last issue of Newsweek has an excerpt from his latest book, I found it fascinating. I should probably try to get the book, although I don't usually do such "heavy" material for my leisure reading ...

[houseelf]

Re: The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

"your Fa-weed" in a sing-songy voice because I'm constantly saying how much I like him.

I enjoyed his book and typically find myself attracted to egghead intellectual types, but I have to say that I save my fawning and crushes for hardbodied types like Daniel Craig. Of course, if we could see him in a beach scene, perhaps I'd change my mind. I'll email his publisher...It would be fabulous PR.

Kelly

Re: The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

He was on a re-run of Jon Stewart last night. (I watch the earlier show that is a day old -- or more). He was promoting his new book. Interesting! I'll bet you could watch the clip on Comedy Central.
http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index ... ed-zakaria

[houseelf]

Re: The Future of Freedom By Fareed Zakaria

I just finished "The Post American World" and enjoyed it every bit as much as the first book. I enjoy his concise, well laid out logic (although there are a few points I question). I *love* when people clarify that we are actually living in GREAT times (peaceful, safe, longevity of life, prosperity) instead of the constant, residual doom and gloom we are fed every frickin' day. This book is damn near impossible to put down in light of the rapidly changing world in which we live. It is a great road map of where we have been and where we can go.

Kelly