The Common Good

Listener Reviews

1. 4.0(1)

   Filled with examples and inspiration

   Reich always seems to hit the mark on what factors contribute to the big picture. He definitely prefers to emphasize a macro perspective over micro analysis but it's simply his method of staying consistent and concise. Naturally, as a professor, he gives the reader more than enough examples to prompt further exploration into his claims. Exactly what pupils need.

   Helen Johns · October 1, 2019

2. 5.0(1)

   This can be a gift from the USA to other nations.

   As an outsider to the USA, living and working here as a Permanent Resident with the Green Card, I learned a lot from this book about this country, its current sociopolitical contexts, and how it got here. In reflecting on my own background, it occurred to me that Reich's arguments may be transplanted to Japan, where I was born. I also lived in several other nations, and I think parts of Reich's points can definitely be used in their contexts, as well. I wonder when it will come out in the Japanese language?

   Jeanette Pierce · June 16, 2019

3. 5.0(1)

   What we need right now

   Reich is as engaging and passionate and ever. i will use parts of this book in my classroom, i teach civics and this has reenergized me for the coming school year. Will listen again for sure.

   marcela miranda · July 27, 2018

4. 5.0(1)

   Citizenship 101

   Should be required reading for all public officials. Mr. Reich, as ever, sums up for me what could be, but sadly rarely is, Americn Citizenship.

   Leslie Hughes · July 23, 2018

5. 4.0(1)

   Required Reading!

   I am a fan of Robert Reich. He is quite insightful, and tuned into actions and words as they fit into life politically, socially and morally. This book is a good place to start for refreshing ourselves on our civics lessons, or learning them for the first time. I don't remember all the events in history quite the same way he recounts, but he was closer to the events and people, so I am grateful for his perspective. His conclusions for living lives of public service and moral responsibility are spot on. Don't miss this chance to feel inspired again to do the right thing. Listen to this book. (Or better, read it. Mr. Reich's voice is not great for audiobooks.) Make your kids listen, and your grandkids, if you have them. Tell your friends. I didn't realize that civics is not a requirement to graduate high school. It should be, of course. It's required for naturalized citizens. This book is full of thoughtful wisdom, and important information.

   Debra Goodman · June 28, 2018

6. 5.0(1)

   Fantastic

   Thank you Robert for your unabridged delivery of great knowledge. Thank you for reminding me of my civic duties that I have forgotten. And thank you for awakening me with another sense of purpose. Entertaining, informative, thought provoking and motivational, this book did not disappoint.

   Katharine Townsend · May 23, 2018

7. 5.0(1)

   what a great concept

   hard to believe our society has gotten so out of touch with it. regardless of your political leaning, religious beliefs or socioeconomic status, read this book and apply at least some small part to how you contribute to your community. our world will be a better place for it.

   Carla Jamieson · April 6, 2018

8. 5.0(1)

   Edifying

   This is a very timely essay. Reich takes a look at Adam Smith’s economic design, ideal of truth and equitable competition. Reich states we are a nation of law and order bound on the common good. He says the enemies of the common good range from the slumlords to megabanks and untrammeled hedge funds. These all disregard the rules of society for selfish gains. Reich stresses the importance of the truth; he proceeds to point out the problems caused by lies. Robert B. Reich is following the lead of Sandra Day O’Connor who is advocating the renewal of civic education to enable people “to work with others; to separate facts and logic from values and beliefs”. I found this to be a most interesting discussion and a good review of citizenship. This book is easy to read. My only complaint is the repetition of key points throughout the book. Robert B. Reich is a professor of public policy at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California Berkeley. He served in the administration of President Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and was Clinton’s Secretary of Labor from 1993 to 1997. Reich narrator the book himself. The book is just over five hours.

   Vanessa Cook · March 16, 2018