Book Critique of
Give Me Liberty: The Uncompromising
Statesmanship of Patrick Henry
David Robinson
PPOG 504
Professor Fischer
May 24, 2013
Abstract
What makes a good statesman? What attributes and character traits should a good statesman have? Should a statesman be required to possess traits of honor, duty, valor, and humility to oneself, or should they seek power, wealth, and fame? One may argue that the former is much more desirable for the overall public good and welfare of the nation than the latter. On the other hand, one may argue that a statesman possess a tenacious leadership style. In this critique I attempt to answer this question.
What is Statesmanship?
In the wake of a healing economy, the conclusion of two wars and numerous political proposals concerning gun control, healthcare, and fiscal cliffs, the average American may be asking him or herself, do we have individuals in office that are concerned about the public good or are they just concerned with being re-elected? This brings light to another critical question in times of crisis, what makes a good statesman? What attributes and character traits should a good statesman have? Should a statesman be required to possess traits of honor, duty, valor, and humility to oneself, or should they seek power, wealth, and fame? One may argue that the former is much more desirable for the overall public good and welfare of the nation than the latter. On the other hand, one may argue that a statesman possess a tenacious leadership style.
A statesman, as defined by Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary, is considered “a man who is experienced in the art of government affairs, or a man who exhibits great wisdom and ability in directing the affairs of a government or dealing with important issues.” However, the term “statesmanship” is a subject within its own, but is comprised of several different subsets to which one is to attend to the affairs of such government....