Best-selling author Michael Lewis discusses his latest work, exploring the vital yet often overlooked stories of civil servants who drive government functionality. He shares inspiring tales like that of Arthur A. Allen, a Coast Guard hero, and Christopher Mark, who redefines public service against family legacy pressures. The conversation also highlights Heather Stone's battle against rare diseases and the crucial role of government in ensuring safety in mining. Through engaging storytelling, Lewis emphasizes the importance of recognizing these dedicated individuals.
The podcast highlights the crucial role of civil servants whose dedication often goes unnoticed, emphasizing their impact on society's welfare.
Michael Lewis advocates for a cultural shift to counter negative stereotypes of government workers, promoting recognition of their positive contributions instead.
Personal stories shared illustrate the deep motivations driving civil servants, showcasing how their experiences lead to meaningful public service and societal change.
Deep dives
The Human Stories of Government
Effective government often hinges on the dedication and stories of civil servants, highlighting their critical roles and motivations. The discussion centers around Michael Lewis's passion to showcase the humanity behind public service, driven by his belief in the importance of recognizing positive contributions from government employees. He argues that many people are unaware of the significant impact of federal workers who are mission-driven and committed to serving society. By sharing these narratives, the podcast illustrates how these individuals often operate outside the limelight, yet their efforts make a remarkable difference in the lives of countless citizens.
The Need for Recognition
A central theme emerges as the conversation reveals the ongoing challenge of society's perception of government workers, often categorized as bureaucratic or ineffective. Lewis highlights the necessity for a cultural shift that encourages recognition of civil servants rather than punitive measures for any perceived failures. The disconnection between society and government leads to misinformation and stereotypes that overshadow the hard work and expertise of dedicated individuals within the system. By shedding light on these stories, there is hope to shift public sentiment and foster greater appreciation for the meaningful work done by federal employees.
Mission-Driven Workers
The narrative emphasizes that many civil servants are deeply motivated by personal experiences and a desire to contribute to the greater good, often driven by formative childhood moments. Examples shared illustrate how various individuals became passionate about their roles, such as a character whose tragic encounter with loss prompted a lifelong commitment to public service. Such accounts serve as powerful testimonies that these workers embody a sense of duty, striving to enact change and improve safety or quality of life for others. This dedication not only enriches their own lives but also profoundly impacts the communities they serve.
Transformative Government Interventions
The podcast details significant stories of civil servants implementing innovative solutions to pressing challenges in society, showcasing the real-world implications of their work. One example discusses how a civil servant transformed mine safety standards, directly impacting the well-being of miners and preventing fatalities. This highlights the intrinsic value of government intervention, particularly in industries where market forces may neglect safety and welfare. By enhancing the understanding of government’s role in tackling complex issues, these narratives argue for the continued necessity of strong federal oversight and support.
Challenging Narratives Through Storytelling
The power of storytelling is underscored as a vital tool for reshaping public perception of government, illustrating how impactful narratives can challenge negative portrayals. Lewis discusses how narratives comparable to personal stories in society can transform viewpoints, drawing parallels with movements like the fight for gay marriage where personal connections shifted broader attitudes. He emphasizes that by consistently sharing these positive accounts, there is potential to awaken a collective recognition of the importance of government and its civil servants in society. Ultimately, these stories frame civil service not just as a job, but as a mission-driven vocation that contributes to a meaningful and functional society.
Best-selling author Michael Lewis discusses his new book, Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service, with Jeffrey Rosen. As government programs face political headwinds, Lewis and his favorite writers examine the human stories of the heroic civil servants who make government work and why their contributions matter.
This conversation was originally streamed live as part of the NCC’s America’s Town Hall series on March 26, 2025.
