The Reagan detour

Library Journal

The basic premise of this book provides the proper antidote for those who feel politics is mostly a sham of illusion and imagery. The pace and rhythm of nation al politics, Reeves forcefully argues, is fueled by ideas: ``The idea is that elec tions and, ultimately, the direction of the country depend on ideas.'' Thus, Rea gan won the presidency on the strength of a set of ideas that Reeves argues repre sents a temporary detour in the evolution of American liberal democracy. Liberal ideas and issues, Reeves firmly believes, will prevail ultimately. This is a useful book raising timely themes that require more considered analysis. Recommend ed. Edward C. Dreyer, Political Sci ence Dept., Univ. of Tulsa, Okla.