"We live in an age that demonstrates the powerful need for ethics in government. Democracy is a privilege that carries with it important responsibilities for the people and their representatives. As we look back on this era and determine the future of this nation, Dr. Long Thompson's book will be a resource for Americans who are seeking ways to secure our democracy and our future as a nation." Congressman John Lewis, Georgia's 5th District.
Ethical leadership, steeped in integrity and fairness, matters. The future of our nation and our world depends upon the quality of America's character. In this uncompromising, absorbing look at our government and society today, Jill Long Thompson persuasively argues that we all have a meaningful role to play in shaping America's character and future. The citizenry, as well as their elected officials, are responsible for protecting fairness of participation and integrity in elections, as well as in the adoption and execution of laws. In this troubling time when the public is losing trust and confidence in our government, Jill Long Thompson shows us a bipartisan way forward.

Foreword (Marcy Kaptur)
Introduction: Ethics are Fundamental to Democracy
Chapter 1: American Character
Chapter 2: Decision-Making with Character
Chapter 3: The Habit of Leading with Character
Chapter 4: Ethics and Democracy
Chapter 5: Democracy, Ethics, and Capitalism
Chapter 6: The American's Character
Conclusion: Strength of Character - Strength of Union
Note

A former Congresswoman from Indiana, Jill Long Thompson taught ethics as a Visiting Clinical Associate Professor at the Kelley School of Business and the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University Bloomington and is now Visiting Scholar with the Ostrom Workshop. Until 2015 she was board chair and CEO of the Farm Credit Administration, a position to which she was appointed by President Barack Obama.