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What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism
AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
“I find myself thinking deeply about what it means to love America, as I surely do.” —Dan Rather
At a moment of crisis over our national identity, venerated journalist Dan Rather has emerged as a voice of reason and integrity, reflecting on—and writing passionately about—what it means to be an American. Now, with this collection of original essays, he reminds us of the principles upon which the United States was founded. Looking at the freedoms that define us, from the vote to the press; the values that have transformed us, from empathy to inclusion to service; the institutions that sustain us, such as public education; and the traits that helped form our young country, such as the audacity to take on daunting challenges in science and medicine, Rather brings to bear his decades of experience on the frontlines of the world’s biggest stories. As a living witness to historical change, he offers up an intimate view of history, tracing where we have been in order to help us chart a way forward and heal our bitter divisions.
With a fundamental sense of hope, What Unites Us is the book to inspire conversation and listening, and to remind us all how we are, finally, one.
“I find myself thinking deeply about what it means to love America, as I surely do.” —Dan Rather
At a moment of crisis over our national identity, venerated journalist Dan Rather has emerged as a voice of reason and integrity, reflecting on—and writing passionately about—what it means to be an American. Now, with this collection of original essays, he reminds us of the principles upon which the United States was founded. Looking at the freedoms that define us, from the vote to the press; the values that have transformed us, from empathy to inclusion to service; the institutions that sustain us, such as public education; and the traits that helped form our young country, such as the audacity to take on daunting challenges in science and medicine, Rather brings to bear his decades of experience on the frontlines of the world’s biggest stories. As a living witness to historical change, he offers up an intimate view of history, tracing where we have been in order to help us chart a way forward and heal our bitter divisions.
With a fundamental sense of hope, What Unites Us is the book to inspire conversation and listening, and to remind us all how we are, finally, one.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2017
About the author
Dan Rather
36 books358 followersWith a famed and storied career that has spanned more than six decades, Dan Rather has earned his place as one of the world’s best-known journalists. He has interviewed every president since Eisenhower and, over that time, personally covered almost every important dateline in the United States and around the world. Rather joined CBS News in 1962. He quickly rose through the ranks, and in 1981 he assumed the position of Anchor and Managing Editor of the CBS Evening News—a post he held for twenty-four years. His reporting across the network helped turn 60 Minutes into an institution, launched 48 Hours as an innovative news magazine program, and shaped countless specials and documentaries. Upon leaving CBS, Rather returned to the in-depth reporting he always loved, creating the Emmy Award winning Dan Rather Reports on HDNet. Now, building upon that foundation, he is president and CEO of News and Guts, an independent production company he founded that specializes in high-quality nonfiction content across a range of traditional and digital distribution channels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,343 reviews
November 23, 2017
4.5 Stars
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in.
Anthem – Leonard Cohen
” Unchecked nationalism leads to conflict and war. Unbridled patriotism can lead to the betterment of society. Patriotism is rooted in humility. Nationalism is rooted in arrogance.”
“Patriotism—active, constructive patriotism—takes work. It takes knowledge, engagement with those who are different from you, and fairness in law and opportunity. It takes coming together for good causes. This is one of the things I cherish most about the United States: We are a nation not only of dreamers, but also of fixers. We have looked at our land and people, and said, time and time again, ‘This is not good enough; we can be better.’”
Broken down into the following topics - FREEDOM, COMMUNITY, EXPLORATION, RESPONSIBILITY, and CHARACTER, each of those is broken down into essays on associated themes. Freedom, for instance includes: The Vote, Dissent, and The Press.
Rather covers the importance of reading, books, journalism, education, art, of being a part of the world beyond our neighborhood and so much more.
The most important thing I came away from reading this book was this: Hope. So, on this Thanksgiving Day, I’d like to thank you, Dan Rather, for reminding me of what we’ve all gone through together, the storms we’ve all weathered, the varied other experiences which we survived, and maybe we even came away a better American, and maybe also even a better citizen of the world. Let’s hope.
“…we are bound together by a grand experiment in government, the rule of law, and common bonds of citizenship. This is what it means to be an American.”
It bears repeating: We can be better.
Many thanks to my goodreads friend Diane, whose review prompted me to read this. Please check out Diane’s review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Recommended
Many thanks, once again, to the Public Library system, and the many Librarians that manage, organize and keep it running, for the loan of this book!
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack in everything
That's how the light gets in.
Anthem – Leonard Cohen
” Unchecked nationalism leads to conflict and war. Unbridled patriotism can lead to the betterment of society. Patriotism is rooted in humility. Nationalism is rooted in arrogance.”
“Patriotism—active, constructive patriotism—takes work. It takes knowledge, engagement with those who are different from you, and fairness in law and opportunity. It takes coming together for good causes. This is one of the things I cherish most about the United States: We are a nation not only of dreamers, but also of fixers. We have looked at our land and people, and said, time and time again, ‘This is not good enough; we can be better.’”
Broken down into the following topics - FREEDOM, COMMUNITY, EXPLORATION, RESPONSIBILITY, and CHARACTER, each of those is broken down into essays on associated themes. Freedom, for instance includes: The Vote, Dissent, and The Press.
Rather covers the importance of reading, books, journalism, education, art, of being a part of the world beyond our neighborhood and so much more.
The most important thing I came away from reading this book was this: Hope. So, on this Thanksgiving Day, I’d like to thank you, Dan Rather, for reminding me of what we’ve all gone through together, the storms we’ve all weathered, the varied other experiences which we survived, and maybe we even came away a better American, and maybe also even a better citizen of the world. Let’s hope.
“…we are bound together by a grand experiment in government, the rule of law, and common bonds of citizenship. This is what it means to be an American.”
It bears repeating: We can be better.
Many thanks to my goodreads friend Diane, whose review prompted me to read this. Please check out Diane’s review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Recommended
Many thanks, once again, to the Public Library system, and the many Librarians that manage, organize and keep it running, for the loan of this book!
November 17, 2017
I have watched this amazing man, journalist from my television set for many years. This man who had traveled extensively, seen much, reporting to the world what he has experienced. A man I deeply respect. Even though this was not an audio book I could imagine his voice reading his words. For me this was an amazing book, a book that covers so much, that put so eloquently the thoughts I have had since our election, more ably than I could.
He explains how far our country has come, where we have been. The rights all groups of people deserve. He feels as many of us do that we are going backwards. The very ideals that made this country strong from the beginning are the ones once again dividing us. How lucky we are to live in a country where we are granted so many freedoms, the power of dissent, the power to speak out against. Where journalism is heading, and where it has been. So much, a book I believe all should read. A book that my small review can not do justice to.
His thoughts are conveyed in chapters, he covers the importance of books, reading, staying informed, the arts, and so much more. I found this book so informative, a short book that makes an impact.
He explains how far our country has come, where we have been. The rights all groups of people deserve. He feels as many of us do that we are going backwards. The very ideals that made this country strong from the beginning are the ones once again dividing us. How lucky we are to live in a country where we are granted so many freedoms, the power of dissent, the power to speak out against. Where journalism is heading, and where it has been. So much, a book I believe all should read. A book that my small review can not do justice to.
His thoughts are conveyed in chapters, he covers the importance of books, reading, staying informed, the arts, and so much more. I found this book so informative, a short book that makes an impact.
September 27, 2024
There are approximately 245 million adults in the United States. I wish all of them would read this book.
And if you were born after, say 1985ish, I definitely recommend you read Rather’s stories. It illustrates that this country has been through a lot of rough times in the distant and recent past and has managed to press on.
Rather was on the front lines of some very turbulent history. His perspective provides reason and hope that we will get through this period too.
Steady.
(Thank you to Algonquin Books for the (signed!!!) copy of this wonderful book)
And if you were born after, say 1985ish, I definitely recommend you read Rather’s stories. It illustrates that this country has been through a lot of rough times in the distant and recent past and has managed to press on.
Rather was on the front lines of some very turbulent history. His perspective provides reason and hope that we will get through this period too.
Steady.
(Thank you to Algonquin Books for the (signed!!!) copy of this wonderful book)
December 4, 2018
(I read this on July 4th for a postal book swap but could only post about it now.)
While I am weary, so weary, of politics, I can appreciate the power of Dan Rather's rationality. I specifically appreciated his differentiation between "patriotism" and "nationalism."
I like the commentary on the arts, on the placement of prominent, uncensored arts as the clearest indicator of a healthy and well-funded democracy. The arts, uncensored, alongside a truly free press can make an excellent democracy.
Steady, my friends.
While I am weary, so weary, of politics, I can appreciate the power of Dan Rather's rationality. I specifically appreciated his differentiation between "patriotism" and "nationalism."
I like the commentary on the arts, on the placement of prominent, uncensored arts as the clearest indicator of a healthy and well-funded democracy. The arts, uncensored, alongside a truly free press can make an excellent democracy.
Steady, my friends.
October 19, 2020
This is a beautiful and comforting book especially in these trying times.
February 4, 2023
Part memoir, part social and political commentary, this book contains sixteen essays in which Dan Rather provides his reflections of patriotism. The essays are grouped in five broad topics; Freedom (essays on “The Vote”, “Dissent” and “The Press”), Community (essays on “Inclusion”, “Empathy”, and “Immigration”), Exploration (essays on “Science”, “Books”, and “The Arts”), Responsibility (essays on “The Environment”, “Public Education”, and “Service”), and Character (essays on “Audacity”, “Steady”, and “Courage”). He ends the book with a bonus essay on citizenship.
The tone of writing is generally positive but cautionary. I think it is fair to describe Dan Rather's views as being progressive and as a supporter to accurate news and history based on facts. He portrays of view of patriotism conducive to inclusion and unity while lamenting other interpretations that are exclusionary and divisive. He states his position without naming names of those he would probably consider bad examples of patriotism.
The tone of writing is generally positive but cautionary. I think it is fair to describe Dan Rather's views as being progressive and as a supporter to accurate news and history based on facts. He portrays of view of patriotism conducive to inclusion and unity while lamenting other interpretations that are exclusionary and divisive. He states his position without naming names of those he would probably consider bad examples of patriotism.
September 10, 2020
update 2020: I was looking though this book yesterday — what I’ve highlighted & pages I’ve dog-eared. If you need bit of comfort during this time, I highly recommend you pick this up.
.
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“I find myself thinking deeply about what it means to love America, as I surely do.” — What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, Dan Rather
.
.
Hopeful. That’s what I felt after finish reading Dan Rather’s “What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism.” Hopeful that things will get better. Hopeful that we will prevail. Hopeful that we can be better. We’re living through one of the most tumultuous times in American history, and this book brought me much-needed clarity, comfort, and optimism. In this collection of essays, Rather reminds us of the values & principles upon which the United States was founded, what it means to an American, and importantly, on how we are all one.
.
.
Split into five sections—Freedom, Community, Exploration, Responsibility, Character, the book includes 15 essays, three each under the aforementioned section headings. Each essay is less than 20 pages and features Rather’s observations on the world as we know it today, how we got to this point, and how we can move forward. Interweaving decades of experiences as revered journalist and history, Rather reminds us what makes our country so great, for all Americans to adhere to higher values, and why we must stand together. Written in an engaging manner with honesty, it’s a book filled with hope, inspiration, sentiments, wisdoms, and lessons. I highly recommend this book. it’s an essential reading for our time, it’s thoughtful, insightful, and hopeful.
.
.
“I find myself thinking deeply about what it means to love America, as I surely do.” — What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, Dan Rather
.
.
Hopeful. That’s what I felt after finish reading Dan Rather’s “What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism.” Hopeful that things will get better. Hopeful that we will prevail. Hopeful that we can be better. We’re living through one of the most tumultuous times in American history, and this book brought me much-needed clarity, comfort, and optimism. In this collection of essays, Rather reminds us of the values & principles upon which the United States was founded, what it means to an American, and importantly, on how we are all one.
.
.
Split into five sections—Freedom, Community, Exploration, Responsibility, Character, the book includes 15 essays, three each under the aforementioned section headings. Each essay is less than 20 pages and features Rather’s observations on the world as we know it today, how we got to this point, and how we can move forward. Interweaving decades of experiences as revered journalist and history, Rather reminds us what makes our country so great, for all Americans to adhere to higher values, and why we must stand together. Written in an engaging manner with honesty, it’s a book filled with hope, inspiration, sentiments, wisdoms, and lessons. I highly recommend this book. it’s an essential reading for our time, it’s thoughtful, insightful, and hopeful.
November 3, 2017
Dan Rather is a national treasure and a true patriot (not a nationalist, an important differentiation as he points out). I loved hearing about his childhood and landmark stories he covered like Watergate, but he does not go deep on these. I'll have to pick up Rather Outspoken: My Life in the News to get the juicy details!
The anecdotes in the book are organized by broad themes like "science is real!" and "art is important!" Unfortunately, there aren't really any strong calls to action or new ideas. Well, maybe they are new ideas to your racist uncle... in fact, this would make a great Christmas gift for all of your backwards-thinking relatives!
I don't think Rather ever mentions Drumpf by name, but constantly alludes to the deranged cantaloupe and his supporters. This vagueness and over-caution is a detriment: I think his best writing is specific and raw.
Despite all that, I still recommend this book. And you must follow Dan Rather on Facebook (why do I feel like I should call him Mr. Rather?!), and any time he is on The Rachel Maddow Show you know it's going to be a great interview.
The anecdotes in the book are organized by broad themes like "science is real!" and "art is important!" Unfortunately, there aren't really any strong calls to action or new ideas. Well, maybe they are new ideas to your racist uncle... in fact, this would make a great Christmas gift for all of your backwards-thinking relatives!
I don't think Rather ever mentions Drumpf by name, but constantly alludes to the deranged cantaloupe and his supporters. This vagueness and over-caution is a detriment: I think his best writing is specific and raw.
Despite all that, I still recommend this book. And you must follow Dan Rather on Facebook (why do I feel like I should call him Mr. Rather?!), and any time he is on The Rachel Maddow Show you know it's going to be a great interview.
November 23, 2017
I just love Dan Rather's articles for News & Guts and for his own FB page. They're incisive, they're biting, they're honest. They're everything that news is supposed to be and has largely stopped being in the last generation. Thus, I was really looking forward to his book.
And, it's just OK. I really believe in his definition of patriotism and its constituent parts. I think he describes an American that I'd love to live in and that we could aspire to be.
But with all that said, I find this book dull. The parts of it based on his personal experience are the most interesting, but without a through-line and without a tighter focus than "patriotism", this doesn't make me want to keep reading (and so I put it down after the first five articles).
Sorry, Mr. Rather.
And, it's just OK. I really believe in his definition of patriotism and its constituent parts. I think he describes an American that I'd love to live in and that we could aspire to be.
But with all that said, I find this book dull. The parts of it based on his personal experience are the most interesting, but without a through-line and without a tighter focus than "patriotism", this doesn't make me want to keep reading (and so I put it down after the first five articles).
Sorry, Mr. Rather.
February 15, 2018
Dan Rather’s What Unites Us is a book of consummate steadiness in a world rolling among considerable waves. As a child of the 1960s, it was Rather whose voice I heard during my childhood and early adulthood. We always turned on the television news after dinner, and his reporting skill and calm voice were right there. That he has remained active in his profession for so many decades, and continues to be a voice of reason just makes me like him more.
Rather never gives our elected officials a pass, but he also clearly communicates his faith in each individual American. What could have been a depressing book about just how far we’ve slid off the road is actually inspiring in its scope. Dan Rather reminds us that we all can be involved in our country and our world. He believes, and makes me believe, that we will find strength in our commonality, not in our differences.
Full review at TheBibliophage.com.
Rather never gives our elected officials a pass, but he also clearly communicates his faith in each individual American. What could have been a depressing book about just how far we’ve slid off the road is actually inspiring in its scope. Dan Rather reminds us that we all can be involved in our country and our world. He believes, and makes me believe, that we will find strength in our commonality, not in our differences.
Full review at TheBibliophage.com.
December 19, 2020
Yes, yes, late to the party on this one, but, in my defense, I couldn't bring myself to buy this until after the 2020 election (yeah, it's complicated), and I had shelved this to read it to close out the year with an eye towards beginning 2021 with a more positive attitude. In the end, I think I timed it pretty well.
It's a good book, but, for me, not a truly great book. Worth reading? Absolutely.
In some ways, I found it to be true to form, in that, like the evening news on a major television network, it was highly accessible and, at most turns, veered towards the middle of the road. Frankly, I'd love to see teenagers read it, and my guess is it would play well at the junior high to intermediate school level, and I have no doubt that many high schoolers would enjoy it. At the risk of sounding elitist (OK, OK, we are what we are), I found just a little too watered down to think that it could/should be assigned to college (let alone grad school) readers, but that doesn't mean that sophisticated readers and serious thinkers wouldn't enjoy it (or, of course, be informed by or learn from it). It wouldn't surprise me to learn that the book works well as a recorded book, because the prose felt like narration. Still, it was an easy, entertaining, thought-provoking read.
As I read this, I kept wondering why I found Robert Reich's The Common Good a superior vehicle. I think they're similar in purpose, but ... and I could be wrong ... but I found Reich's righteous anger rang true, whereas Rather's overwhelming caution, the gentleness with which he dances around sensitive material, nothing short of maddening. For example, while I may have missed it, my sense is that Rather never specifically mentions Donald Trump by name, which, frankly (if I'm correct) was a Herculean feat, but, to my mind, a grievous error. How can we have a meaningful discussion of what is right and what is wrong, if we don't name what is wrong? It's a lousy analogy, but Rather all but refers to the (now outgoing) President as he who must not be named (of Harry Potter fame).
I had mixed feelings about Rather's rubric of first-person story telling as anecdote and example. As a reader, I struggled at times to maintain the thread that tied Rather's life story and perspective to what unites us. Rather is a fascinating guy, he's seen a lot in one lifetime, and I've become a fan and follower on social media, but I haven't consistently watched network news since the 1970's, and, more broadly, I'm not much of a TV person (other than live sports, but that's a different animal). On the other hand, having gone to school in Houston, Texas, albeit decades after Rather's childhood, I was intrigued by how an older version of the Houston I knew formed his early worldview.
It's a quick, easy read, and it's chock full of the values that so many of us grew up with in our homes (and saw modeled by our parents), studied in school, learned in our religious studies, and had drilled into us in military service, etc. Should we talk about these things - the glue that precariously binds our nation together - more often? Yes. If this book begins or spurs or encourages such a discussion, that's a good thing.
It's a good book, but, for me, not a truly great book. Worth reading? Absolutely.
In some ways, I found it to be true to form, in that, like the evening news on a major television network, it was highly accessible and, at most turns, veered towards the middle of the road. Frankly, I'd love to see teenagers read it, and my guess is it would play well at the junior high to intermediate school level, and I have no doubt that many high schoolers would enjoy it. At the risk of sounding elitist (OK, OK, we are what we are), I found just a little too watered down to think that it could/should be assigned to college (let alone grad school) readers, but that doesn't mean that sophisticated readers and serious thinkers wouldn't enjoy it (or, of course, be informed by or learn from it). It wouldn't surprise me to learn that the book works well as a recorded book, because the prose felt like narration. Still, it was an easy, entertaining, thought-provoking read.
As I read this, I kept wondering why I found Robert Reich's The Common Good a superior vehicle. I think they're similar in purpose, but ... and I could be wrong ... but I found Reich's righteous anger rang true, whereas Rather's overwhelming caution, the gentleness with which he dances around sensitive material, nothing short of maddening. For example, while I may have missed it, my sense is that Rather never specifically mentions Donald Trump by name, which, frankly (if I'm correct) was a Herculean feat, but, to my mind, a grievous error. How can we have a meaningful discussion of what is right and what is wrong, if we don't name what is wrong? It's a lousy analogy, but Rather all but refers to the (now outgoing) President as he who must not be named (of Harry Potter fame).
I had mixed feelings about Rather's rubric of first-person story telling as anecdote and example. As a reader, I struggled at times to maintain the thread that tied Rather's life story and perspective to what unites us. Rather is a fascinating guy, he's seen a lot in one lifetime, and I've become a fan and follower on social media, but I haven't consistently watched network news since the 1970's, and, more broadly, I'm not much of a TV person (other than live sports, but that's a different animal). On the other hand, having gone to school in Houston, Texas, albeit decades after Rather's childhood, I was intrigued by how an older version of the Houston I knew formed his early worldview.
It's a quick, easy read, and it's chock full of the values that so many of us grew up with in our homes (and saw modeled by our parents), studied in school, learned in our religious studies, and had drilled into us in military service, etc. Should we talk about these things - the glue that precariously binds our nation together - more often? Yes. If this book begins or spurs or encourages such a discussion, that's a good thing.
November 8, 2017
In the often-hardscrabble world of the newsroom, Dan Rather has always stood out as a bit, well, sentimental. And he readily admits it: “Like so many, I love my country and its people. I do so with a sentimentality that may seem anachronistic in today’s more jaded world.”
The thing that has always made Rather such an American force, however, is that he comes by the sentimentality honestly. Whatever you conclude about the man after reading this book you will and must conclude that he is authentic. He is the real deal.
There are so many great sentiments in this book. It’s impossible to pick out the best. Here’s just a sampling:
“If we lose a sense of humility, we risk losing everything.”
“Patriotism is rooted in humility. Nationalism is rooted in arrogance.”
“…a free press is even more relevant now than ever.”
“…the whole premise of our democracy is that truth and justice must win out.”
“…art is about engaging in a candid dialogue with yourself.”
“American greatness has largely been driven by audacity.”
And my favorite, “Still, libraries represent an aspirational notion of democracy.” Indeed they do.
Born into the Great Depression, the son of a Texas oilfield worker, Rather’s life certainly mirrors the great opportunity that we, as Americans, have been blessed with. Importantly, however, the acquisition that he is clearly proudest of and most thankful for is the acquisition of knowledge, the acquired love of art and theater, a deep-felt respect for science, and the rich memories of all the people he has met over a lifetime of curiosity.
Dan is a bit older than I am, but I am old enough to appreciate the sentiment that “The opportunity for me and my generation to confront those questions is rapidly receding.” Not so rapidly, however, that a man like Dan Rather doesn’t make the effort, however, to have another crack at them. Here’s to hoping there are many more such opportunities for us to enjoy his insightful and inspiring authenticity.
I normally reserve five star ratings for books that are truly transformative. I’m not sure this book rises to that standard but the man’s life and contribution certainly do.
The thing that has always made Rather such an American force, however, is that he comes by the sentimentality honestly. Whatever you conclude about the man after reading this book you will and must conclude that he is authentic. He is the real deal.
There are so many great sentiments in this book. It’s impossible to pick out the best. Here’s just a sampling:
“If we lose a sense of humility, we risk losing everything.”
“Patriotism is rooted in humility. Nationalism is rooted in arrogance.”
“…a free press is even more relevant now than ever.”
“…the whole premise of our democracy is that truth and justice must win out.”
“…art is about engaging in a candid dialogue with yourself.”
“American greatness has largely been driven by audacity.”
And my favorite, “Still, libraries represent an aspirational notion of democracy.” Indeed they do.
Born into the Great Depression, the son of a Texas oilfield worker, Rather’s life certainly mirrors the great opportunity that we, as Americans, have been blessed with. Importantly, however, the acquisition that he is clearly proudest of and most thankful for is the acquisition of knowledge, the acquired love of art and theater, a deep-felt respect for science, and the rich memories of all the people he has met over a lifetime of curiosity.
Dan is a bit older than I am, but I am old enough to appreciate the sentiment that “The opportunity for me and my generation to confront those questions is rapidly receding.” Not so rapidly, however, that a man like Dan Rather doesn’t make the effort, however, to have another crack at them. Here’s to hoping there are many more such opportunities for us to enjoy his insightful and inspiring authenticity.
I normally reserve five star ratings for books that are truly transformative. I’m not sure this book rises to that standard but the man’s life and contribution certainly do.
January 17, 2018
This is a compilation of stories. It has some fair anecdotes, but let's be honest, it's also an octogenarian journalist preaching about how things used to be worse/harder/darker/etc. It's definitely misrepresented as any kind of Ethics text, beyond the old trope of "If only people today would participate..."
November 2, 2020
In these days before the 2020 election I have been reading Dan Rather's What Unites Us, recently released in paperback form.
I was able to join Politics and Prose Bookstore's Zoom talk with Rather. He was interviewed by Jennifer Steinhauer, whose book The Firsts: The Inside Story of the Women Reshaping Congress I read a few months ago.
Rather lays out the shared values Americans which can become a platform for building consensus in our divided country.
One person, one vote. The freedom of speech, to dissent; freedom of the press--no matter how flawed. The importance of science and knowledge, even if we disagree over specific ideas. Education. Our desire to be an empathetic people.
Rather hopes his book can be a jumping off place for dialogue, starting a much needed conversation.
Rather harkens back to his childhood and draws from his years as a journalist. He first defines patriotism as opposed to nationalism and ends with what it means to be a citizen.
In the Zoom talk, a listener asked Rather if the country has ever been as divided as it is today. He recalled the 1960s when rebellions and nonviolent protests erupted over war and racism. Today, he notes, protests include a broader demographic mix in age, class and ethnicity.
"I'm a reporter who got lucky, very, very lucky," the eighty-nine-year-old Rather responded to being called a 'national treasure.' His tip for aging well? Rather replied luck, genetics, God's grace, determination, and dedicating one's life to something bigger than yourself, and finding a life companion who sticks with you through thick and thin.
Some of my favorite quotes from the book:
Dissent can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it is vital in a democracy.
Like so many others in our country, I journeyed from ignorance to tolerance to inclusion.
Empathy builds community, Communities strengthen a country and its resolve and will to fight back...I worry that our nation today suffers from a deficit of empathy, and this is especially true of many in positions of national leadership.
I remind myself and others that we have been through big challenges in the past, that it often seems darkest in the present. The pendulum of our great nations seems to have swung toward conceit and unsteadiness once again, but it is in our power to wrest it back.
Ultimately, democracy is an action more than a belief. The people's voice, your voice, must be heard for it to have an effect.
I was able to join Politics and Prose Bookstore's Zoom talk with Rather. He was interviewed by Jennifer Steinhauer, whose book The Firsts: The Inside Story of the Women Reshaping Congress I read a few months ago.
Rather lays out the shared values Americans which can become a platform for building consensus in our divided country.
One person, one vote. The freedom of speech, to dissent; freedom of the press--no matter how flawed. The importance of science and knowledge, even if we disagree over specific ideas. Education. Our desire to be an empathetic people.
Rather hopes his book can be a jumping off place for dialogue, starting a much needed conversation.
Rather harkens back to his childhood and draws from his years as a journalist. He first defines patriotism as opposed to nationalism and ends with what it means to be a citizen.
In the Zoom talk, a listener asked Rather if the country has ever been as divided as it is today. He recalled the 1960s when rebellions and nonviolent protests erupted over war and racism. Today, he notes, protests include a broader demographic mix in age, class and ethnicity.
"I'm a reporter who got lucky, very, very lucky," the eighty-nine-year-old Rather responded to being called a 'national treasure.' His tip for aging well? Rather replied luck, genetics, God's grace, determination, and dedicating one's life to something bigger than yourself, and finding a life companion who sticks with you through thick and thin.
Some of my favorite quotes from the book:
Dissent can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it is vital in a democracy.
Like so many others in our country, I journeyed from ignorance to tolerance to inclusion.
Empathy builds community, Communities strengthen a country and its resolve and will to fight back...I worry that our nation today suffers from a deficit of empathy, and this is especially true of many in positions of national leadership.
I remind myself and others that we have been through big challenges in the past, that it often seems darkest in the present. The pendulum of our great nations seems to have swung toward conceit and unsteadiness once again, but it is in our power to wrest it back.
Ultimately, democracy is an action more than a belief. The people's voice, your voice, must be heard for it to have an effect.
February 28, 2018
“The greatness of America lies not in being more enlightened than any other nation, but rather in her ability to repair her faults.” – Alexis De Tocqueville
A couple of months ago I had the honor and pleasure of hearing Dan Rather speak here in our mutual hometown of Houston and I received a copy of this book at the event. I’ve long held Mr. Rather in high esteem, not only for his journalistic abilities, but for his rational, steady voice over the years during times of turbulence and uncertainty. His voice is just as steady today as we face a political crisis in America. I must say that his intelligent outlook and the way that he voices his thoughts on our country have a way of comforting me, even when he’s discussing unpleasant situations. So I began reading his book with much anticipation.
I wasn’t disappointed. The book is short – under 300 pages, but it’s packed with wisdom. There are anecdotes from the author’s childhood that helped form his character and his thoughts, bits of his early career and things he learned, and a look at where he is today based on his experiences and those who shaped him.
But the book isn’t really about Dan Rather. Those are just pieces of the whole. The book is about America, and the people who helped form our country, the well-known and the obscure. Every chapter covers a different topic and how America has reacted to, or allowed, events to mold us. The book is about patriotism, and what it really is. How freedom, community, exploration, responsibility and character (all chapters in the book) have impacted our lives.
Dan Rather is always hopeful. And he gives me hope, when I sometimes feel like giving up on my country.
5 stars
A couple of months ago I had the honor and pleasure of hearing Dan Rather speak here in our mutual hometown of Houston and I received a copy of this book at the event. I’ve long held Mr. Rather in high esteem, not only for his journalistic abilities, but for his rational, steady voice over the years during times of turbulence and uncertainty. His voice is just as steady today as we face a political crisis in America. I must say that his intelligent outlook and the way that he voices his thoughts on our country have a way of comforting me, even when he’s discussing unpleasant situations. So I began reading his book with much anticipation.
I wasn’t disappointed. The book is short – under 300 pages, but it’s packed with wisdom. There are anecdotes from the author’s childhood that helped form his character and his thoughts, bits of his early career and things he learned, and a look at where he is today based on his experiences and those who shaped him.
But the book isn’t really about Dan Rather. Those are just pieces of the whole. The book is about America, and the people who helped form our country, the well-known and the obscure. Every chapter covers a different topic and how America has reacted to, or allowed, events to mold us. The book is about patriotism, and what it really is. How freedom, community, exploration, responsibility and character (all chapters in the book) have impacted our lives.
Dan Rather is always hopeful. And he gives me hope, when I sometimes feel like giving up on my country.
5 stars
November 16, 2017
I like Dan Rather but I didn't entirely like this book. It felt really uneven to me. Some chapters had way too much history for me and that is not a subject I enjoy. But other chapters felt much more personal and I loved them, like how he stood up with the Black people who didn't have the right to vote to show his support and how his family brought encyclopedias into the home to encourage reading and learning. While he addressed the fact that many of us are feeling ill at ease about the current state of our nation, I felt he lacked a clear plan of action for what it takes to unite us. OK. Back to fiction now...
November 11, 2017
The thing I love most about Dan Rather, and there are a lot of things I love about him, is his ability to speak to a frightening, chaotic, distressing time in the history of our country, and leave you feeling calmed and soothed. And hopeful. Most importantly, hopeful. These are dark times in our country where we are being told that up is down, black is white, wrong is right. Dan speaks to it, and somehow, he calms your anxiety with his thoughtful, steady words on what it means to be an American--both in the past and today in these uncertain times.
November 19, 2020
Audible
Read by the Author
A comforting and grounding book. Dan Rather's reflections include historical moments I remember. Revisiting them in the context of 2020, through the thoughtful reporter's mind was healing. Americans don't always get it right, yet we don't give up. We are a grand experiment and we do have the ability to learn from our mistakes.
RECOMMEND
Read by the Author
A comforting and grounding book. Dan Rather's reflections include historical moments I remember. Revisiting them in the context of 2020, through the thoughtful reporter's mind was healing. Americans don't always get it right, yet we don't give up. We are a grand experiment and we do have the ability to learn from our mistakes.
RECOMMEND
December 12, 2017
i worry about how important norms of american life are being shattered, along with a unity of purpose. i see the chasms of entrenched partisanship, growing inequality on income and opportunity, and the lingering injustices around race, gender, and sexual orientation. i think of my children and my grandchildren. how will they and their generations answer the call?among the titans of american journalism and reporting, dan rather looms large. with a career spanning six decades, rather embodies the steady and stalwart. his new book (co-written with elliot kirschner), what unites us: reflections on patriotism, is a beautifully written, all-too-timely crash course in the ideals and values that have long defined americanism at its best. segmented into five parts (each with three essays): freedom, community, exploration, responsibility, and character, rather succinctly captures the essence and importance of our long-cherished principles and institutions.
this scorn of knowledge (especially when the conclusions are painful) in exchange for fact-free rhetoric is not entirely new in our history, but it has always been the language of demagoguery and it is a betrayal of our traditions.whether writing about voting rights, the necessity (and inherent patriotism) of dissent, press freedom, empathy, books, science, service, public education, courage, or any of the other subjects he alights upon in the book, rather's keen insight, measured prose, and love of country combine in convincing fashion. written in the wake of 2016's consequential presidential election, what unites us is an attempt to rise above the partisan din and remind people of all ideological and political leanings of the shared values we've not only long sought to embody, but upon which we've based our national trajectory.
as we seek common ground with our fellow citizens, we cannot forsake our core values. compromise cannot be confused with capitulation.not once in what unites us does rather mention the current oval office denizen by name. though he clearly alludes to various aspects of the present administration, he's certainly not speaking to them (though he did apparently send the white house a copy — an audiobook version, that is). while it may sound hyperbolic to say so, rather's new book is one that every american ought to read. regardless of party affiliation, it's difficult to imagine the reader who'd finish this book without reassessing the many ways we've (collectively) strayed from what once was considered so foundational and immutable. what unites us is a sadly necessary book in an age of rancor, institutional uncertainty, and exaggerated divisiveness. dan rather, who has witnessed and/or reported upon nearly every major event of the last half-century (civil rights, assassinations, wars, official malfeasance, domestic unrest, terrorist attacks, etc.), unabashedly offers his hard-earned wisdom and perspective, encouraging every american to revisit the myriad ideals that have long made america great (while also acknowledging its imperfections, misdeeds, and fragility).
today we are a divided country. too many decent and law-abiding men and especially women are being told that this nation is not for them, that their values make us weaker, that their voice is better left unspoken. we see elected officials pounding their chests, saying their vision of america represents the only real patriotism. to them i say that patriotism is not a cudgel. it is not an arms race. it also means confronting honestly what is wrong or sinful with our nation and government. i see my love of country imbued with a responsibility to bear witness to its faults.
November 13, 2017
Well-written collection of essays on the traditional values of our country -- voting, dissent, inclusion, responsibility (including science and public education), innovation, service, courage, audacity, and more. While Rather is clearly not a fan of our current administration, he focuses on the issues -- both challenges and opportunities -- facing America today and looks at how we have faced similar issues in the past. I particularly appreciated the distinction between patriotism and nationalism ("Nationalism is a monologue in which you place your country in a position of moral and cultural supremacy over others. Patriotism, while deeply personal, is a dialogue with your fellow citizens, and a larger world, about not only what you love about your country, but also how it can be improved.")and the honesty about the numerous times as a country where we haven't lived up to our values. He highlights how things like dissent and service have helped us address the issues of our past and to move the country forward. These are measured essays, not inflammatory, and aimed at getting the reader to engage with the hard questions and issues facing our country.
October 31, 2018
Speaking plainly, this is a terrible book. I didn't read much of it, but I'd forgotten who Dan Rather is (was), and why I dislike(d) him. The few pages I read are full of blather & empty platitudes, just like his bad TV "newscasts". If you, too, have forgotten him: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Rat...
-- which is the episode that ended his CBS career. Rather credulously retailed some obviously fake news to make then-President GW Bush look bad, apparently without doing any due diligence, and this came back to bite him in the ass, big time. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy {/sarc}.
Avoid this turkey at all costs. Unless, of course, you believe(d) the Rather smear stuff. None of which is in this book, but consider the author.....
-- which is the episode that ended his CBS career. Rather credulously retailed some obviously fake news to make then-President GW Bush look bad, apparently without doing any due diligence, and this came back to bite him in the ass, big time. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy {/sarc}.
Avoid this turkey at all costs. Unless, of course, you believe(d) the Rather smear stuff. None of which is in this book, but consider the author.....
April 16, 2018
This is an absolutely amazing book. So well written and Dan Rather's thoughts were right on (at least in my opinion). Obviously when talking about politics, patriotism, etc - not everyone is going to agree. Rather is respectful on all sides. He doesn't name names (unless talking about an actual historical event), he doesn't drag anyone through the mud, he just tells it how it is. If I could have highlighted my favorite parts (alas, it's a library book), practically the whole book would have been highlighted over! A quick. important read in today's rocky time.
October 5, 2020
I loved this audiobook. Helpful for me in thinking through the importance of a humble and hopeful patriotism vs an arrogant and oppressive nationalism.
Quote:
It is important not to confuse “patriotism” with “nationalism.” As I define it, nationalism is a monologue in which you place your country in a position of moral and cultural supremacy over others. Patriotism, while deeply personal, is a dialogue with your fellow citizens, and a larger world, about not only what you love about your country but also how it can be improved.
Quote:
It is important not to confuse “patriotism” with “nationalism.” As I define it, nationalism is a monologue in which you place your country in a position of moral and cultural supremacy over others. Patriotism, while deeply personal, is a dialogue with your fellow citizens, and a larger world, about not only what you love about your country but also how it can be improved.
August 23, 2018
This collection of wisdom was a Christmas present from my husband that hit the spot. I enjoyed meandering through the nostalgic reminiscences of Rather's childhood and life and the message he used them to convey. This is an overall positive and hopeful view of America, focusing on what supposedly unites us while I'm seeing an awful lot of what divides us, so it is refreshing reading. At times, I felt a bit skeptical about his Pollyanna view on things, but that is why I needed these words. My favorite chapters were, of course, the one on Books (it could have been called "Ode to books and learning" and it was delicious), the Arts, and Steady. I learned a bit, thought a lot, and my copy is marked up with my notes and favorite lines, as it's staying on my shelf; I think I'll revisit it later as well. I'm anxious to see if he is correct in his prediction that our country will prevail through these turbulent times thanks to the wonderful people who live here, our amazing checks and balances established in our government, and all that unites us. I tend to believe his wisdom, as he's seen and done so much more than me. This book inspired me to stay steady.
January 5, 2018
I’m a fan of Dan Rather and follow him and his News and Guts page on social media. I root for him and agree with his views, and I loved 99.9% of this book. I can’t give it a full five stars though because of its chapter on the press. While ruminating on fake news, it felt like an egregious omission to not at least acknowledge the fact that he was terminated from CBS for his part in a falsified news story. And while mentioning Fox News and its right-wing bias, I kept waiting for him to cop to the fact that News and Guts is essentially its counterpoint on the far left. I would definitely still encourage people to read “What Unites Us,” but I have to think its messages will only be well received by those standing on his side of the aisle.
March 24, 2018
What a perfectly wonderful book that couldn’t be more timely. This is a collection of essays about what unites us as Americans, with examples pulled from his childhood, personal experiences, and years of reporting. I’ve missed the voices of brave and honest reporters speaking truth to power on many topics, Rather’s voice is one I’ve missed, and I didn’t even really see how much until I listened to this audiobook.
December 30, 2018
A remarkable career. I enjoyed the history lessons and found his details of his memories extraordinary.
January 17, 2018
Dan Rather writes patriotically in a way that does not leave the reader with a feeling of indigestion. It's a tragedy that that sentence needs be written at the start of a review, but the sentiment remains true. A great many pundits an would-be television personalities get paid lots of money to write about "America" and what is right or wrong about it depending on their right or left perspective, and the end result is that any and all discussion of politics becomes fraught with the nasty partisanship that, as I addressed at the start, leaves one feeling gassy and repulsed at the concept of public discourse.
Rather's political position in this book in one of national, political, spiritual, and emotional unification. that's a fancy pants way of saying Rather wants people to get along. It's all very likely that this collection of essays could become dated as the years go on, but there is a real intellectual thesis in these essays that captures something of the American spirit. Rather sees an America which can be strong and enact real change in this world. Rather focus on the divisions in this nation as the defining quality, Rather tries in each of these essays to look at a facet of the society and tries to find something which can unite us together. Whether it's science,sufferage, libraries, immigration, the free press, the environment, or even the government itself Rather sings in each one a love song to the idea that America can unite to accomplish amazing things. This book is a vision of hope in a time when the landscape of the citizenry is divided by petty infighting and emotional partisanship.
By the end of this collection I was reminded why I love my country, and why I believe in this country. I want America to be great, but only if it means working with my fellow citizens to make it so.
Rather's political position in this book in one of national, political, spiritual, and emotional unification. that's a fancy pants way of saying Rather wants people to get along. It's all very likely that this collection of essays could become dated as the years go on, but there is a real intellectual thesis in these essays that captures something of the American spirit. Rather sees an America which can be strong and enact real change in this world. Rather focus on the divisions in this nation as the defining quality, Rather tries in each of these essays to look at a facet of the society and tries to find something which can unite us together. Whether it's science,sufferage, libraries, immigration, the free press, the environment, or even the government itself Rather sings in each one a love song to the idea that America can unite to accomplish amazing things. This book is a vision of hope in a time when the landscape of the citizenry is divided by petty infighting and emotional partisanship.
By the end of this collection I was reminded why I love my country, and why I believe in this country. I want America to be great, but only if it means working with my fellow citizens to make it so.
September 10, 2024
I think this is a great book but as a follower of Rather’s, I found it to be sort of preaching to the choir. Sadly, the folks that need to read this won’t.
I really liked what he had to say about the death of real investigative journalism and how people feel that their opinion is somehow equivalent to an expert’s research or science.
The audiobook was read by Rather, which was good, but the volume and tone was inconsistent. His voice was louder and softer at times and that made it hard to hear.
I really liked what he had to say about the death of real investigative journalism and how people feel that their opinion is somehow equivalent to an expert’s research or science.
The audiobook was read by Rather, which was good, but the volume and tone was inconsistent. His voice was louder and softer at times and that made it hard to hear.
January 12, 2018
Dan Rather is a national treasure. I am grateful for his thoughtful optimism. As he would say, “Steady”. What a wonderful mantra to repeat during these times.
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