George Lakoff
Whose Freedom?
The Battle Over America's Most Important Idea
FSG, 2006
Что внутри?
Conservatives and progressives are battling to define 'freedom.' Who should win? You're free to choose – for now.
Recommendation
This is an impassioned, partisan essay about the definition of the word "freedom" from the perspective of a cognitive scientist and political liberal. George Lakoff's book starts as an interesting, thought-provoking argument that uses scientific insights to deconstruct the conservative position. In the end, however, he does not explain how today's raging debates will change American political discourse. His enumeration of the differences between progressives (liberals) and conservatives becomes tedious at times, since it's clear which side he takes. He addresses the book to progressives like himself - basically preaching to the choir. Nevertheless, getAbstract recommends this intelligent discussion to people across the political spectrum and, in particular, to communication professionals who wish to examine how the medium shapes the message - even on a neurological level.
Summary
About the Author
George Lakoff is a professor of cognitive science and linguistics at the University of California, Berkeley. His books include Don't Think of an Elephant!; Moral Politics; Women, Fire and Dangerous Things and Metaphors We Live By (with Mark Johnson).
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