The Limits of Power

The End of American Exceptionalism

By: Andrew Bacevich

Narrated by: Eric Conger

"Andrew Bacevich speaks truth to power, no matter who's in power, which may be why those of both the left and right listen to him."—Bill Moyers

An immediate New York Times bestseller, The Limits of Power offers an unparalleled examination of the profound triple crisis facing America: an economy in disarray that can no longer be fixed by relying on expansion abroad; a government transformed by an imperial presidency into a democracy in name only; and an engagement in endless wars that has severely undermined the body politic.

Writing with knowledge born of experience, conservative historian and former military officer Andrew J. Bacevich argues that if the nation is to solve its predicament, it will need the revival of a distinctly American approach: the neglected tradition of realism. In contrast to the multiple illusions that have governed American policy since 1945, he calls for respect for power and its limits; aversion to claims of exceptionalism; skepticism of easy solutions, especially those involving force; and a conviction that Americans must live within their means. Only a return to such principles, Bacevich eloquently argues, can provide common ground for fixing America's urgent problems before the damage becomes irreparable.

©2008 Andrew Bacevich; (P)2008 Macmillan Audio

great critique; dubious conclusions

Great takedown of post 9/11 foreign policy and military strategy. Criticizing politicians is easy but political correctness of the conservative type has made anything but gushing praise of military leadership toxic, so that part his analysis is rare and insightful. He does an excellent job pointing out fallacies in popular arguments/excuses (e.g. "the generals need more power" or "bring back the draft so we aren't so cavalier about starting wars"), but the presentation was hard to follow and at times I wasn't sure if he was making HIS argument or laying out another in order to then critique it. It probably is easier to follow in the text version as opposed to audio. The book was anticlimactic for me as his proposal to redirect resources away from wars against ideologies and toward wars against earth's climate is a non sequitur. The left exploits irrational fears of death and destruction by climate change in exactly the same way the right exploits irrational fears of terrorism. The proper role of government is not to assuage fears, it is to protect natural rights, especially from those who use fear to convince people they'd rather "feel safe" than have rights.

Great Book!

This was one of the best and most important
books I've read all year. Really put the world --
and the US role in it -- in perspective.

Every American Must Read this Book

This is the most thoughtful analysis of the terrible mess we are in and gives some insight into how we might get out of it. Bacevich is a genius.

Thorough

Excellent and insightful survey of the war on terror. This book provides possible non-military solutions to containing enemies of America: a breath of fresh air.

very powerful and informative

the narrator is amazing, the writing is amazing, and the political analysis and use of "prophecies" are very on the point of what is happening today in modern America.