‘The Highest Calling’: A Conversation With David Rubenstein on the American Presidency
Sep 13, 2024
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David Rubenstein, a best-selling author and philanthropist, dives into the essence of the American presidency. He discusses his book, which contrasts the legacies of iconic figures like Jefferson and Washington, emphasizing their complex histories. The conversation highlights the transformative role of adversity in leaders such as Franklin Roosevelt and the unique journeys of Truman and Eisenhower. Rubenstein also addresses the importance of informed citizenship and familial ties in shaping presidential legacies, urging a deeper understanding of America's political history.
Engaging with American presidential history fosters informed citizenship, crucial for strengthening democracy and increasing voter participation.
Presidents who deeply understand historical contexts, like Lincoln and FDR, shape their leadership styles based on past governance lessons.
The evolving reputations of presidents underscore the importance of moral character and legacy reassessment within American historical narratives.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Presidential History
The conversation emphasizes the need for citizens to engage with the history of American presidents to strengthen democracy. The lack of voting among eligible citizens is concerning, with an estimated 80 million people not participating in elections. Knowledge of presidential history fosters a better-informed electorate, as Jefferson noted, representative democracy thrives on informed citizens. Greater awareness of past leaders' roles can inspire more individuals to partake in the democratic process, ultimately enhancing the strength of the nation.
Common Traits Among Presidents
A key observation from the discussions is the commonality among many presidents: their deep interest in American history. Notable figures such as Lincoln, FDR, and George W. Bush were recognized for their scholarly knowledge and understanding of past presidential actions. This historical awareness shapes their decision-making and leadership styles in office, demonstrating that the presidency is viewed as a continuum of American governance. The notion that understanding predecessors informs current leadership underscores the value placed on historical scholarship among these leaders.
The Presidency as the Highest Calling
The episode delves into the idea of the presidency being the highest calling in the public sector, distinguished from the private sector. The discussion identifies President Wilson’s international prominence as a turning point, demonstrating how the role of the U.S. president gained global significance. The narrative showcases how contemporary presidents, regardless of their individual political standings, bear immense influence, ultimately shaping both domestic and international affairs. This instills in many aspirants a sense of duty to contribute meaningfully to their country.
The Evolution of Presidential Reputation
The episode illustrates how presidential reputations can shift over time due to evolving perspectives on character and actions. Figures such as Truman and Carter, once criticized, have gained recognition for their respective achievements and contributions post-presidency, emphasizing how opinions fluctuate with historical context. The changing views on presidents like Wilson and Jackson highlight the importance of moral character in evaluating their legacies. This evolving reputation stresses the need to continue analyzing and reassessing contributions within the broader narrative of American history.
Relationships of Presidents with Their Families
Insights into the personal lives of presidents reveal the significant impact of familial relationships on their leadership styles and decisions. The discussion highlights the nurturing bond between presidents like Biden and their parents, showcasing how these relationships shaped their character and approach. These personal anecdotes lend depth to their public personas, demonstrating that their family dynamics play a crucial role in their governance. This understanding offers a more intimate lens through which to view presidential decisions and motivations in the context of their larger historical narratives.
On September 12, 2024, best-selling author, philanthropist, and National Constitution Center Trustee David Rubenstein joined Jeffrey Rosen at the Center in Philadelphia to discuss his new book, The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency. The book, which features interviews with presidential historians and living U.S. presidents, chronicles the journeys of the leaders who have defined America. They discuss the duties and responsibilities of the presidency, the triumphs and failures of its officeholders, and the future of the role in the twenty-first century.