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In Search of the Common Good: A Journey to Reclaim the Lost Virtue of Civility

Fredrick Cox

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Published in In Search Of The Common Good: Guideposts For Concerned Citizens

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By David Brooks

In Search of the Common Good is a powerful and inspiring book that explores the lost virtue of civility and offers a roadmap for its revival. Author David Brooks argues that civility is essential for a healthy and flourishing society, and he provides practical advice on how to cultivate it in our own lives and communities.

In Search of the Common Good: Guideposts for Concerned Citizens

by Jack E. Brush

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2421 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	145 pages

Brooks begins by defining civility as "the habit of being considerate and respectful of others, even when we disagree with them." He argues that civility is not simply a matter of good manners, but rather a fundamental moral principle that is essential for a just and equitable society.

Brooks traces the decline of civility in American society over the past few decades, and he identifies a number of factors that have contributed to this decline, including the rise of social media, the increasing polarization of our politics, and the erosion of our traditional institutions.

Despite these challenges, Brooks believes that civility can be revived. He argues that we need to start by rediscovering the importance of empathy and compassion. We need to learn to listen to each other's stories, and to try to understand their perspectives, even if we don't agree with them.

Brooks also emphasizes the importance of humility. He argues that we need to recognize that we don't have all the answers, and that we can learn from others, even those who disagree with us.

In addition to empathy and humility, Brooks also argues that we need to cultivate the virtues of courage and forgiveness. We need to have the courage to stand up for what we believe in, even when it's unpopular. And we need to be willing to forgive those who have wronged us, so that we can move on and build a better future.

In Search of the Common Good is a timely and important book that offers a much-needed roadmap for reviving the lost virtue of civility. Brooks provides practical advice on how to cultivate civility in our own lives and communities, and he makes a compelling case for why civility is essential for a healthy and flourishing society.