Other editions of book The conscience of a conservative

With an Introduction by Patrick J. Buchanan and a New Foreword by Darcy Olsen of the Goldwater Institute. Here is the path-breaking book that rocketed a political philosophy into the forefront of the nation's consciousness, written in words whose vigor and relevance have not tarnished with age: I have little interest in streamlining government or in making it more efficient, for I mean to reduce its size. I do not undertake to promote welfare, for I propose to extend freedom. My aim is not pass laws, but to repeal them. it is not to inaugurate new programs, but to cancel old ones that do violence to the Constitution, or that have failed in their purpose, or that impose on the people an unwarranted financial burden. I will not attempt to discover whether legislation is "needed" before I have first determined whether it is constitutionally permissible. And if I should later be attacked for neglecting my constituents' "interests," I shall replay that I was informed their main interest is liberty and that in that cause I am dong the very best I can.

For a huge number of Republicans, Goldwater's book, The Conscience of a Conservative was must reading. I believe it is just as vital today as it was then, and Senator Goldwater addresses many topics that could be torn from today's headlines. In this book, Goldwater offered a clear warning about impending dangers to the survival of our American freedoms with recommendations of appropriate action to avoid those dangers. Had Goldwater been elected, we might find today's political landscape very different. This book explores the perils of power, States rights, Civil rights, taxes and spending, and perhaps the most important, the welfare state. In the America of today, with a man in the White House like President Obama, The Conscience of a Conservative becomes, once again, must reading.

The Conscience of a Conservative is an original work of politics and philosophy, a vision of the nation and the world as it should be, not a compromise with the world as it was. It is a fusion of the three major strains of conservatism in 1960—traditional conservatism, classical liberalism or libertarianism, and anti-communism. It is a book by a conservative for conservatives at a time when conservatives were beginning to realize the potential of their political power.

Conscience of a Conservative written by legendary author Barry Goldwater is widely considered to be one of the top 100 greatest books of all time. This great classic will surely attract a whole new generation of readers. For many, Conscience of a Conservative is required reading for various courses and curriculums. And for others who simply enjoy reading timeless pieces of classic literature, this gem by Barry Goldwater is highly recommended. Published by Classic House Books and beautifully produced, Conscience of a Conservative would make an ideal gift and it should be a part of everyone's personal library.