Tussman, Joseph. — Government and the Mind

London : Oxford University Press, 1977. First edition. Hardcover. Dustjacket. ix,175 pp. 22 cm. Owner's stamp on title-page. Mailorder only - Alleen verzending mogelijk. Book condition : very good. From the publisher : Government, we are told-and by the Supreme Court itself-may not invade the sphere of intellect and spirit which it is the purpose of the First Amendment to our Constitution to preserve from all official control. Joseph Tussman provocatively and persuasively argues against this principle and seeks to establish not only that government has authority in the realm of the mind, but also that its responsibilities there are among the most important it has. A polity must, if it is to survive, recruit and incorporate new members; it must provide for a fruitful life of communication; it must direct attention to its problems and cultivate the knowledge and wisdom it needs. Or it will die. There is, therefore, an overwhelming public interest in the condition of the mind. Tussman divides his argument into three areas. First he considers govern- ment's role in shaping public awareness. Next he deals with government's deep involvement in education, not only through the public education system but also through public laboratories, research grants, and support of the arts. Finally he examines government's role in the public forum. Tussman's theses strike strong blows against the extreme permissiveness that has existed in all these areas as they affirm the legitimacy and necessity of the government acting to some degree as cultivator and guardian of the public mind. This controversial, passionate book will fascinate lawyers, politicians, edu- cators, and all who are concerned about establishing a dividing line between the rights of the individual and those of the society as a whole in a democracy. ISBN 9780195022308.