Repairing Jefferson's America: A Guide to Civility and Enlightened Citizenship

My initial rating was 4 out of 5, but after some thought, that seemed unfair. Clearly, Mr Jenkinson put as much thought and reflection into his ideas as he always does in his podcasts.It is clear that he is passionate about how our nation would benefit from returning to Jeffersonian notions, without glossing over Jefferson's obvious contradictions. He believes that what makes a person remarkable is not their flaws, but what they accomplish in spite of those flaws (I think that Ken Burns voiced that idea, but I could be wrong.) Jefferson is the perfect example of this.I cannot say that I agree with all of his prescriptions for being a Jeffersonian, but Jenkinson is a reasonable man, so we will simply disagree. For instance, I think that Jefferson was ambivalent about religion, to the point that he would not have considered it a violation of the Establishment Clause that a high school valedictorian prayed. After all, such an action would not have broken his leg or picked his pocket. Jefferson was not a man to be offended easily, certainly not one to demand that everyone comply, because he was "offended" So, I regard the practice of faith as a matter of "free exercise" , nothing more . That is my assessment of what would be Jeffersonian as it pertains to faith and religion.So, while I might differ as to the specifics of how to be one of Jefferson's Americans, I wholeheartedly agree with Jenkinson on the necessity of doing so in the best interests of our nation.Even if you are not familiar with Clay Jenkinson, there is a lot to learn and consider in "Repairing Jefferson's America". It is well worth your time, as is listening to the "Thomas Jefferson Hour" podcasts .

Clay Jenkinson offers a blueprint on how to head our fractured political landscape based on the Jeffersonian principles of reason and civility. While fairly and frankly pointing out the deep flaws in Jefferson, Jenkinson points us to the ideals of this remarkable man who is probably most illustrative of the American spirit. The "baker's dozen" of Jefferson's letters included give a good insight into many of Jefferson's principles. And, if his flaws are too hard for you to overcome, then translate "Jeffersonian" into "Renaissance person" because that is what he was and what he calls all of us to be.

This is an excellent book. It is short and a quick read but it conveys essential ideas in an entertaining presentation of how Jeffersonian ideals should be applied today. Just imagine how much our society would improve if we could all follow the prescription to "bow to science, argue from evidence, agree to disagree as rational friends, seek consensus, and treat each other as equal citizens of a republic..." The 13 letters at the end of the book are also a good illustration of these ideals.

History without revision is so refreshing. Those who think our founding fathers to be pure and without flaws are begging to be disappointed. Jefferson is the perfect example. However, his vision of civility, enlightenment and the responsibility that comes with being a free citizen is what is missing in our country. Thank you Mr. Jenkinson for reminding me why I love this country and my fellow flawed man.

This is an excellent book that provides a blueprint for a better life and better United States. It is a forward-looking book that explains how Jeffersonian ideals and habits can restore civility and thoughtfulness to American life. Well worth one's time.One caveat: if you are a regular listener to "The Thomas Jefferson Hour," there is some repetition, especially with the enclosed Jefferson letters.

This is a great book, and not intended to be read all in one setting, although it could be. There are some amazing points made, and definitely helps make since of all the craziness going on!! If 1 in 5 read this book, and take it to heart, we would truly live up to ideals that founded this country!!

Every American should read this before the election. You may not agree with everything, but it's still a good read and relevant where we are in American history.

A well written guide to modern citizenship through a Jeffersonian perspective. This book is a worthy read that provides some hope that our best days as a nation may not all be in the past.