Although freedom is America's core value, few Americans have a clear idea of what it means or - worse - enjoy much freedom in any of its conventional meanings. Drawing from republican tradition, the book critiques the contemporary American value of freedom as it appears in politics, the economy, and culture.

Kenneth Morris is a writer and former professor of sociology. He currently lives in Costa Rica.

1. Introduction: The Puzzle of Freedom 2. From Republics to a National Empire 3. The Return of Feudalism 4. American Stoicism 5. A Place for Freedom