Discusses and expands upon arguments and ideas set forth in Michael Lind's book, "The Next American Nation." Lind questions cherished assumptions of both conservatives and liberals. He supports government activism promoting a high degree of social and economic equality but questions the philosophy and efficacy of racial identity…

Maintains that in the face of today's largely negative debate over immigration, reading fiction about immigrants can provide students with historical background, empathy, and an understanding of different perspectives. Notes that people's reasons for wanting to come to the United States remain fairly constant. Includes a five-item annotated…