Includes bibliographical references (p. [287]-294) and index.

In this passionate, erudite, and provocative book, Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and director of the American Symphony Orchestra, takes on the cultural pessimists who he believes are harming our youth and damaging our democracy. "Most of our fellow citizens believe that yesterday things were better. Even those born during the 1950s romanticize the past. There is little optimism about tomorrow." Such relentless and unjustified pessimism, Botstein argues, becomes a barrier to a hopeful future. In fact, he demonstrates persuasively, America is a much better, stronger culture than it has ever been. Much work needs to be done, especially in raising and teaching our kids, but the most important element is instilling in them a sense of American society as a vibrant, forward-looking culture of possibility. Crucially, Botstein offers concrete solutions that can be pursued by citizens, schools, colleges, and the government. Schools can be restructured to reflect the realities of modern childhood; they can be turned into 24-hour learning centers to serve the entire community; parents can help their children by taking simple steps - learning how children think and trying to think like them, fostering their imaginative powers, and encouraging them to engage in the wider world.

Risk and reality -- You are what you eat -- Name your poison -- Of panatelas and pariahs, secondhand smoke and second-class citizens -- God and man--and woman -- Men and women are different -- Bluenoses and blue pencils.

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