Review by jimthorne2 -- The Right to Nominate

[jimthorne2]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Right to Nominate" by Thomas E Peterson.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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The Right to Nominate: Restoring the Power of the People over the Power of the Parties by Thomas Peterson is a study in American political history that advocates a controversial idea from a robust and convincing logical and emotional point of view. Using comments from the Federalist as his text, Peterson makes a viable case showing that the current American political system has radically changed the method of nominating representatives to govern the country from what the Framers of the Constitution envisioned. He calls the resulting political system a ‘Dilemma’ (p. 10).

In seven parts the author compares and contrasts the intent of the Framers of the Constitution with the realities of the political parties that emerged as the result of strong and persuasive personalities. The writer surveys the history of the clash between Hamilton and Jefferson and presents it as the determinative factor in the resulting political scene. The author describes in detail the reasons why the conflict resulted in a two-party system. Peterson then proposes a political solution to the 'Dilemma' with some specific suggestions.

I like the historical commentary Peterson makes about the political scene at the beginning of the United States of America. I like the way he gives famous personalities their say concerning issues surrounding the writing of the Constitution. I appreciate the attempt the author makes at showing how the clash of personalities and the resulting two-party system have resulted in the toxic atmosphere of modern politics.

I do not like the specific suggestions that are made in the book since they appeal more to reason than to practice. I am not impressed with the logic the author uses to explain the best solution to the ‘Dilemma’ presented.

The book is well written providing fascinating historical information. The structure of the narrative is good, and the pace is quite rapid. Personalities are presented fairly and without rancor. Peterson makes the historical personages of Hamilton and Jefferson come alive by careful description and comment. His description of times and events is interesting and adequately conveys not only the history but also the tone of the period involved.

I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. The author has a valid point but will not persuade many readers that the action he calls for should take place. I recommend the book to a person interested in the political times when the Framers were writing the Constitution. The insights into the personalities are valuable. The issues discussed are important and will give the reader valuable information to consider for his participation in the political process.

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The Right to Nominate
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