For some time, My father(R) and I have had political debates. Usually this consists of him forwarding some crazy right-wing e-mail full of inaccuracies, and lies to "everyone", and me doing a reply-all with what I consider to be a rational analysis of the facts.
So, now, he's offering me a proposal. If I read a political book that he chooses, he'll read one that I choose. So, I'm looking for ideas...
The book he's offered is "Liberty and Tyranny" by Mark Levin. Apparently, he's just read this, and considers it a sure-fire way to bend my views. Just by the title, I can guess what this is about, and what my response will be to it. But, I'll read it anyway and try to be as fair as I can with my analysis.
I don't read a lot of political books that I "agree with". I know what I believe, and generally don't need to read something that'll just make me nod my head a zillion times. I think the last somewhat political book I read was something by Al Franken... which I figured would also be funny - and was.
What I'm looking for is a book that clearly explains what I feel to be at the core of my political beliefs. One of these is that without a strong government that is "of, for, and by the people", we'll be faced with rule by whoever has the deepest pockets. And those with the deepest pockets will fix the game to favor themselves.
I consider myself a capitalist, but believe that capitalism only works if it's smartly and effectively regulated to favor a vibrant and fair marketplace.
So, any book ideas in that vein? Most of all, it has to be a good read - no sleepers please.
One thought I had was to have him listen to a month of Thom Hartmann on the radio - along with a sabbatical of right-wing radio (He listens to plenty of the usual suspects). Though, I have no idea what the quality of shows might be over that month, nor sure that he'll actually be able to listen often enough... or would accept this.
Any other ideas?