In 'Beyond Ideology,' Frances E. Lee challenges the conventional wisdom about political polarization in America. She explores how partisanship often overshadows the real concerns of citizens, prompting a shift in focus from ideology to practical governance. With compelling examples, Lee reveals the complexities of political identity and the hidden factors driving decision-making. This thought-provoking analysis encourages readers to reconsider their preconceived notions about political divides. Will her insights inspire a new approach to understanding and bridging these divides?
By Frances E. Lee
Published: 2009
"In a world rife with division, we find that the true path to progress lies not in ideology, but in our willingness to understand and collaborate across our differences."
The congressional agenda, Frances Lee contends, includes many issues about which liberals and conservatives generally agree. Even over these matters, though, Democratic and Republican senators tend to fight with each other. What explains this discord? Beyond Ideology argues that many partisan battles are rooted in competition for power rather than disagreement over the rightful role of government. The first book to systematically distinguish Senate disputes centering on ideological questions from the large proportion of them that do not, this volume foregrounds the role of power struggle in partisan conflict. Presidential leadership, for example, inherently polarizes legislators who can influence public opinion of the president and his party by how they handle his agenda. Senators also exploit good government measures and floor debate to embarrass opponents and burnish their own party’s image—even when the issues involved are broadly supported or low-stakes. Moreover, Lee contends, the congressional agenda itself amplifies conflict by increasingly focusing on issues that reliably differentiate the parties. With the new president pledging to stem the tide of partisan polarization, Beyond Ideology provides a timely taxonomy of exactly what stands in his way.
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“In a world rife with division, we find that the true path to progress lies not in ideology, but in our willingness to understand and collaborate across our differences.”
Beyond Ideology
By Frances E. Lee
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Frances E. Lee is a prominent author and political scientist known for her insightful analyses of American politics. She is the author of several notable works, including "Sours: The Politics of the White House and the 2016 Election" and "Beyond Party: Cultivating the American Political Style." Lee's writing is characterized by its clarity, depth, and engaging narrative style, making complex political concepts accessible to a broad audience. Through her research and publications, she has established herself as a leading voice in the study of political behavior and the dynamics of party politics.
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