James Q. Wilson is one of America 's most distinguished public policy scholars. This quintessential volume brings together decades of his writing and thinking on all facets of American culture, society, and government. Wilson muses about the changing nature of American politics, terrorism and extremism, the role of the media, the intersection of science, religion, and politics, and the revival of the old-fashioned notion of character.

Acknowlegements
Preface
Part 1: The Changing Nature of American Politics
Chapter 1: American Politics Then and Now
Chapter 2: "Public Intelectuals" and Public Policy
Chapter 3: The Rediscovery of Charcter: Private Virtue and Public Policy
Chapter 4: The Press at War
Chapter 5: Defining the "Peace Party"
Chapter 6: Bowling with Others
Chapter 7: How Divided Are We?
Part 2: Religion and Politics
Chapter 8: Religion and Polarization
Chapter 9: Why Don't Jews Like Christians Who Like Them?
Chapter 10: What Makes a Terrorist?
Chapter 11: The Reform Islam Needs
Chapter 12: Islam and Freedom
Chapter 13: Democracy for All?
Part 3: Heredity and Politics
Chapter 14: The DNA of Politics: Genes Shape Our Beliefs, Our Values, and Even Our Votes
Chapter 15: The Future of Blame
Conclusion: America Versus the World
Index
About the Author