New Consciousness Review Fall 2016 | Page 46

PURPOSE REVIEW & INTERVIEW Sacred America Sacred World by Stephen Dinan The message of this book is so timely, as the political rhetoric of our country seems to be descending to new lows of deliberate polarization, and cynical disregard for either the truth or the intelligence of the people. S tephen Dinan’s voice of reason calls upon us to place our love of this country and its role as a model of democracy above partisan power struggles. He argues for a transpartisan coalition that would revive the notion of compromise within the political process and restore respect for the legislators. It is vital, he suggests, to preserve a multiparty system so that the compassion and idealism of progressives can be balanced by the values and historical roots of conservatives. It is important that we support the weakest among us facing catastrophe from illness, loss of job, or natural disaster. It is also just as important to have voices grounded in the traditions and wisdom of the past to ensure that our progress is sustainable. Sacred America, in his view, combines the best in our national character - our pioneering spirit, generosity, innovation, high ideals and devotion to freedom - with a sense of destiny and service to advancing the next stage of planetary evolution. The book provides a big-picture overview of the many challenges we face - particularly climate change, inequalities, terrorism, the overreach of corporations and the banking system, and education. Dinan then goes on to highlight some of the many innovations around the world that are 46 | NEW CONSCIOUSNESS REVIEW