James W. (1oldhistorian) reviewed Heroic Conservatism: Why Republicans Need to Embrace America's Ideals (And Why They Deserve to Fail If They Don't) on + 2 more book reviews
Gerson's book provides some interesting insights into not only his thinking as a long-time 'conservative' but also into the George W. Bush White House. Perhaps most interesting is a contrast, drawn from the inside, between an old, less strident Conservatism and the new one that seems to dominate the GOP and its adherents today. From Gerson's comments, it's not hard to see how George W. Bush was at odds with some within his own circle and how he could be disliked almost as much by many of their mindset as by liberals of the Democratic left wing. While I found myself unconvinced by some of the arguments presented, this book provided a useful antidote to some preconceptions. I'd highly recommend this as food for thought, especially for those on the extremes of both Right and Left to whom it will almost surely not appeal.
