Studies the significance of the conservative victory in the 1980 election. Also evaluates the increasing support of conservative policies such as the dismantling of civil rights, women's rights, and environmental gains. Concludes that an important element in this drift to the right is the resurgence of laissez-faire liberalism. (DB)

Suggests how to press an issue upon legislators during the final campaign months of an election year when legislators are more responsive to constituents. Information is presented on making use of campaign finance reports, creating a chart showing performance of various legislators and devising political organizing techniques. A directory of…

Media in the '70s stressed the importance of self and popularized psychology. Amidst self-help best sellers, encounter sessions, and special interest groups, the author asks, "What has happened to civility?" and "Can a culture without civility call itself civilized?" Condensed and reprinted from "Daedalus," Summer 1980. (Editor)

In looking toward American life in the 1980s, we can see that the church has a great role to play in calling the American experiment to judgment, in intensifying accountability which can give birth to new possibilities, and in reengaging the passions of hope. (Author/SJL)

Profiles this year's winners of the Charles Frankel Prize, awarded to individuals who have stimulated and expanded public understanding of the humanities. The recipients are Rita Dove (poet), Doris Kearns Goodwin (historian/author), Daniel Kemmis (mayor/author), Arturo Madrid (professor), and Bill Moyers (television producer). (MJP)