Journey of Purpose: Reflections on the Presidency, Multiculturalism, and Third Parties

by Paul Tsongas and The Honorable Paul Tsongas

Book Overview

In this inspiring book, one of the most respected senior figures in American politics defines his political philosophy for the country as we approach the end of the twentieth century. For many years... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0300066279
• ISBN13: 9780300066272
• Release Date: January 1996
• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Length: 114 Pages
• Weight: 0.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.1" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

The Political Gosepl of St. Paul

It's hard to believe that it has been almost two decades since Paul Tsongas sought the Democratic presidential nomination. Tsongas' national political career appeared over after his first term in the US Senate was interrupted by his battle with cancer. However, Tsongas made a gallant effort at the 1992 Democratic presidential nomination and, while he did not do as well as Bill Clinton or even Jerry Brown, he did much better than expected and made a real impact on the race. While Tsongas passed away in 1997, his legacy on fiscal responsibility survives in the Concord Coalition. All that being said, "Journey of Purpose" which came out of lectures that Tsongas made in late 1994 and early 1995 does not hold up well. The first lecture is an indepth narrative of Tsongas' presidential campaign. It is interesting, insightful and even humorous. Tsongas came out of nowhere to win the New Hampshire primary and a number of other key races. While they have very different political styles, the only real equivalent in recent times may have been Mike Huckabee's surprising showing in 2008. Tsongas also included lectures on multiculturalism and third party politics. The essay on multiculturalism is bland and does nothing that really stands out from the usual liberal position on the issue. It is easily the weakest part of the book. Tsongas is better on third parties though a good deal of the issues he brought up here simply got lost in the economic prosperity of the 1990s and the Bush administration's focus on international affairs. Still, if one is seeking to understand the issues that led to the rise of Ross Perot and the various anti-Washington political explosions of the 90s (Clinton beating Bush, the GOP takeover in 1994) Tsongas offers a pretty insightful analysis though he was mistaken that third parties would be in the center; Tsongas certainly did not see how Ralph Nader from the left and Pat Buchanan from the right would impact the 2000 race. A solid if unspectacular book, the best parts of "Journey of Purpose" concern the 1992 campaign. Tsongas is self-deprecating and funny but he also is modest and reflective (at least for a politician).

A Great Anecdote to Passionless Candidates

It's nice to be reminded that there have been, and hopefully will be again, presidential candidates who are more driven by the passion to serve than a vague and often misguided ambition to merely hold office. Senator Tsongas' work more than serves that purpose as it outlines his reasons for running in 1992 as well as his blueprint for a party that promises to effectively serve the compassionate core of America. What's most refreshing is that Tsongas is fair and reasoned in his approach and, whenever necessary, critical of his own party in his attempt to stear it in bold new directions. Whether you embrace Tsongas' political leanings or not, this is one of those works that should be considered essential reading nevertheless.

A wonderful work on generational and moral responsibility

This is, simply put, one of the better works I have read. The late, great American, Paul Tsongas, did a wonderful job in articulating his belief that we are a socially progressive yet fiscally responsible nation. In doing so, the former Senator and Democratic Presidential Candidate does not forsake his Democratic roots but instead embraces the New Democratic theory on government, which seeks to have both a fiscal and morally responsible government which empowers citizens.Mind you, I do not agree 100% with the late Senator's beliefs. Yet, overall, this one's a sure winner. I highly recommend this one.