The Common Good Audiobook By Robert B. Reich cover art

The Common Good

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The Common Good

By: Robert B. Reich
Narrated by: Robert B. Reich
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Robert B. Reich makes a powerful case for the expansion of America’s moral imagination. Rooting his argument in common sense and everyday reality, he demonstrates that a common good constitutes the very essence of any society or nation. Societies, he says, undergo virtuous cycles that reinforce the common good as well as vicious cycles that undermine it, one of which America has been experiencing for the past five decades. This process can and must be reversed. But first we need to weigh the moral obligations of citizenship and carefully consider how we relate to honor, shame, patriotism, truth, and the meaning of leadership.

Powerful, urgent, and utterly vital, this is a heartfelt missive from one of our foremost political thinkers.

©2018 Robert B. Reich (P)2018 Random House Audio Business Ethics Civics & Citizenship Civil Rights & Liberties Ethics & Morality Freedom & Security Philosophy Political Science Politics & Government Workplace & Organizational Behavior Socialism Business Capitalism Taxation

Critic reviews

"Brief but well-argued...a provocative essay." (Kirkus)

"Reich's lucidly defining and empowering call for revitalized civic awareness - complete with an enticing list of recommended reading and discussion guide - is an ideal catalyst for book-group conversations." (Booklist)
Compelling Thesis • Insightful Analysis • Thoughtful Wisdom • Educational Content • Inspirational Message
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This is a very timely essay. Reich takes a look at Adam Smith’s economic design, ideal of truth and equitable competition. Reich states we are a nation of law and order bound on the common good. He says the enemies of the common good range from the slumlords to megabanks and untrammeled hedge funds. These all disregard the rules of society for selfish gains. Reich stresses the importance of the truth; he proceeds to point out the problems caused by lies.

Robert B. Reich is following the lead of Sandra Day O’Connor who is advocating the renewal of civic education to enable people “to work with others; to separate facts and logic from values and beliefs”. I found this to be a most interesting discussion and a good review of citizenship. This book is easy to read. My only complaint is the repetition of key points throughout the book.

Robert B. Reich is a professor of public policy at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California Berkeley. He served in the administration of President Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and was Clinton’s Secretary of Labor from 1993 to 1997. Reich narrator the book himself. The book is just over five hours.

Edifying

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It explains why we're in the mess we're in as a nation and what we should do about it to correct it

A must read for everyone

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Loved it! At any cost is too expensive. Courtesy, logical facts and engaging with all Americans are key to our common good.

Good is True and Good. Thank you RR!

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Reich is as engaging and passionate and ever. i will use parts of this book in my classroom, i teach civics and this has reenergized me for the coming school year. Will listen again for sure.

What we need right now

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I am a fan of Robert Reich. He is quite insightful, and tuned into actions and words as they fit into life politically, socially and morally. This book is a good place to start for refreshing ourselves on our civics lessons, or learning them for the first time.

I don't remember all the events in history quite the same way he recounts, but he was closer to the events and people, so I am grateful for his perspective. His conclusions for living lives of public service and moral responsibility are spot on. Don't miss this chance to feel inspired again to do the right thing.

Listen to this book. (Or better, read it. Mr. Reich's voice is not great for audiobooks.) Make your kids listen, and your grandkids, if you have them. Tell your friends. I didn't realize that civics is not a requirement to graduate high school. It should be, of course. It's required for naturalized citizens. This book is full of thoughtful wisdom, and important information.

Required Reading!

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As an outsider to the USA, living and working here as a Permanent Resident with the Green Card, I learned a lot from this book about this country, its current sociopolitical contexts, and how it got here. In reflecting on my own background, it occurred to me that Reich's arguments may be transplanted to Japan, where I was born. I also lived in several other nations, and I think parts of Reich's points can definitely be used in their contexts, as well. I wonder when it will come out in the Japanese language?

This can be a gift from the USA to other nations.

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hard to believe our society has gotten so out of touch with it. regardless of your political leaning, religious beliefs or socioeconomic status, read this book and apply at least some small part to how you contribute to your community. our world will be a better place for it.

what a great concept

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Reich always seems to hit the mark on what factors contribute to the big picture. He definitely prefers to emphasize a macro perspective over micro analysis but it's simply his method of staying consistent and concise. Naturally, as a professor, he gives the reader more than enough examples to prompt further exploration into his claims. Exactly what pupils need.

Filled with examples and inspiration

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Should be required reading for all public officials. Mr. Reich, as ever, sums up for me what could be, but sadly rarely is, Americn Citizenship.

Citizenship 101

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Thank you Robert for your unabridged delivery of great knowledge. Thank you for reminding me of my civic duties that I have forgotten. And thank you for awakening me with another sense of purpose. Entertaining, informative, thought provoking and motivational, this book did not disappoint.

Fantastic

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