First published 2005
Bernard Goldberg builds his case against one hundred Americans he believes are damaging the country's culture and values. The New York Times bestselling author of Bias expands his critique beyond media bias to examine what he sees as a broader cultural rot. Goldberg divides his targets into categories: America Bashers among cultural elites, Hollywood Blowhards who mistake fame for intelligence, TV Schlockmeisters producing degraded content, and Intellectual Thugs dominating universities with leftist ideology. He counts down from 100 to his number one offender, placing Al Franken at position 37. The author exposes both public figures and behind-the-scenes operators he claims pull cultural strings while remaining largely invisible. Goldberg argues these individuals have created a more selfish, vulgar, and cynical America where moral boundaries have dissolved. He combines serious cultural criticism with humor, skewering targets like a congresswoman concerned about hurricane naming diversity and an environmentalist who flies private jets while criticizing SUV drivers. The book serves as Goldberg's broader indictment of American culture and speaks for Americans frustrated with the country's direction.
Genres: american, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: social-commentary
Period: 21st-Century
320 pages · Hardcover · Harper