The Conservative Soul: Fundamentalism, Freedom, and the Future of the Right

**A Clarion Call for a Modern Conservatism: Andrew Sullivan's _The Conservative Soul_** Is the soul of conservatism lost? In _The Conservative Soul: Fundamentalism, Freedom, and the Future of the Right_, renowned political commentator Andrew Sullivan delivers a powerful and often searing critique of the modern American right, arguing that it has strayed far from its core principles. This isn't simply a partisan attack; it's a passionate plea from within, a desperate attempt to reclaim a conservatism that values individual liberty, limited government, and a balanced approach to faith and politics. Sullivan, a self-described conservative, argues that the Republican party has been hijacked by a dangerous blend of religious fundamentalism and unchecked political power. He meticulously dismantles the hypocrisy he sees within the modern conservative movement: professing fiscal responsibility while exploding the national debt, championing national security while engaging in costly and arguably destabilizing foreign interventions, and advocating for limited government while expanding its reach into the most intimate aspects of personal life. Published initially in 2006 and this edition being a reprint from 2007, the book feels incredibly prescient. Sullivan foresaw many of the challenges that continue to plague American politics today, including the increasing polarization of the electorate and the erosion of reasoned debate. He challenges the assumption that conservatism must be inherently opposed to progress and modernity, envisioning a future where traditional values can coexist with social tolerance and individual autonomy. _The Conservative Soul_ isn't just a diagnosis of the problems facing the right; it's also a roadmap for recovery. Sullivan outlines a vision for a revitalized conservatism that is grounded in intellectual honesty, committed to fiscal discipline, and respectful of individual freedoms. He emphasizes the importance of separating religious belief from political ideology, arguing that the fusion of the two has led to a dangerous form of theocracy that threatens the very foundations of American democracy. Sullivan's writing is sharp, insightful, and deeply engaging. He doesn't shy away from controversial topics, and he's willing to challenge conventional wisdom on both sides of the political spectrum. Whether you agree with his conclusions or not, _The Conservative Soul_ is a thought-provoking and essential read for anyone who cares about the future of American politics. It is a book that demands attention, fosters discussion, and urges a return to core values. As Jonathan Raban noted in *The New York Review of Books*, it "should be read closely by liberals as well as conservatives." This paperback reprint allows for a new generation to grapple with Sullivans critical assesment of the state of US conservativism. Delve into the arguments of a commentator unafraid to challenge his own side. A timeless study of American political thought.