"I'm encouraged and happy that you are putting out a book on the conditions that undergird a healthy democracy. I worry that many of those conditions are challenged these days, and I can no longer assume or trust that our students have had the benefit of a traditional civics education before they come to college. And so, your book is not only useful, I think it's increasingly necessary." - Dennis Holtschneider, CM, President of DePaul University

"Steve has written a sprightly essay on the changing conversation about democracy and democratic engagement. He reflects on past and current practices of civic learning and collaboration that further the values of democratic partnership." -Harold Stone, Dean & Professor of European History, Shimer College

"This book makes a clear case for the way that democracy and respect for human dignity go hand-in-hand. Respectful and inclusive communication are key. When we include these qualities in our interactions with others we move toward a more democratic world." - Emily Toch, MD, Psychiatrist, Lifelong Medical Care, Berkeley