Liebmann's expertise in American government and its history is evident throughout. He makes the historical development of institutions come alive by putting faces and personalities on those who promoted them.

William A. Fischel, Professor of Economics and Hardy Professor of Legal Studies, Dartmouth College

Citing historical and contemporary critics, including Tocqueville, Theodore Lowi and Robert Wiebe, Liebman condems pluralistic government by interest groups in which 9in Lowi's words “there is no formal specification of ends and means. . . and therefore, no substance. . . only process. In place of this, Liebmann urges 'devolution,reciprocity of obligations, institution-building and predictability.

Chilton Williamson, author of After Tocqueville in Chronicles

This book consists mostly of engaging vignettes of individuals who pioneered the development of largely successful schemes for the improvement of American life at the state and local levels. . . This is an original, well-written, rewarding book meriting a wide readership.

David Schaefer, Professor of Political Science, College of the Holy Cross, in Choice