Why Congress?

Book • 2023
In 'Why Congress?

', Philip Wallach argues that Congress is essential for legitimate self-government in the U.S.

, particularly through its ability to harmonize the country's factions.

The book examines Congress's role during crucial moments such as World War II and the civil rights movement, and traces its evolution from radical decentralization in the 1970s to the powerful leadership and ideological caucuses of the 1980s.

Wallach discusses how contemporary policymaking often bypasses Congress and proposes three scenarios for its future: continued dysfunction, increased executive power, or a revival of meaningful deliberation and debate through the committee system.

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Jeff Kavis-Evice
as an excellent book that pulls together disparate strands of Philip Wallach's thinking.
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