Bush's Fringe Government : Book Review

In his book "Bush's Fringe Government," author Garry Wills provides a scathing critique of the Bush administration, delving into the inner workings and ideologies of its key players. Wills argues that the administration was heavily influenced by neoconservative ideologues and religious fundamentalists, resulting in policies driven by fringe perspectives rather than practical considerations.

Throughout the book, Wills takes a deep dive into the roles played by various figures in the Bush administration, such as Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, and Attorney General John Ashcroft. He highlights how these individuals and their allies used their positions of power to advance policies that aligned with their radical beliefs, even if they disregarded expert advice or common wisdom.

Furthermore, Wills delves into the ways in which religious fundamentalism impacted the decision-making process of the Bush administration. He argues that faith-based ideologies took precedence over evidence-based reasoning, leading to disastrous policy choices such as the invasion of Iraq and the mishandling of Hurricane Katrina.

In supporting his claims, Wills provides meticulous research and detailed analysis. He draws on government documents, interviews, and public statements to paint a comprehensive picture of the fringe government that shaped the Bush administration. By doing so, he challenges readers to question the influence of ideological extremism on American politics and to consider the lasting impact it can have on governance.

Overall, "Bush's Fringe Government" is a thought-provoking and thoroughly researched book that offers a critical examination of the Bush administration. Wills raises essential questions about the role of ideology in shaping policy decisions and highlights the potential dangers of allowing fringe perspectives to dominate government decision-making processes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of robust and evidence-based governance in order to avoid the pitfalls of fringe ideologies.

What are readers saying?

Garry Wills' book "Bush's Fringe Government" has received a variety of reviews, reflecting readers' diverse opinions about the author's perspectives and writing style.

Some readers praised the book as a meticulous and insightful analysis of the policies of the Bush administration. They commended Wills for his thorough research, highlighting the key influences and decisions that shaped the government's direction. These reviewers also appreciated the book's extensive documentation of the administration's actions and its exploration of the underlying ideological influences.

However, others disagreed with Wills' analysis, deeming it biased and one-sided. These readers felt that the book lacked objectivity, failing to provide a balanced perspective on the governance of the Bush administration. Some critics also found the writing style to be dense and challenging, which hindered their enjoyment and understanding of the material.

Nevertheless, several reviewers found the book relevant beyond the George W. Bush era. They appreciated its insights into the functioning of fringe government groups within any administration and the thought-provoking parallels that could be drawn to subsequent administrations.

While a few reviewers desired more focus in the book, mentioning that Wills touched on a wide range of topics, they still recognized its value and encouraged readers to approach it with an open mind.

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