High Hopes: The Clinton Presidency and the Politics of Ambition

By Stanley A. Renshon

Book Overview

Now in paperback, this perceptive psychological portrait of Clinton and his presidency investigates whether Clinton has demonstrated the necessary qualities of judgment, vision, character and skill, as well as his ambition and extreme self-confidence. Renshon traces the development of Clinton's character from his early family experiences to his adolescence and long political career, including the controversy surrounding Clinton's draft-dodging and marriage.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0415921473
• ISBN13: 9780415921473
• Release Date: September 1998
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 428 Pages
• Weight: 1.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A Pleasant Surprise

I had never head of this book before I spotted it on the shelf of my local bookstore. But after reading it, I was surprised that it hadn't received more attention and praise. As far as the Clinton books go, this is the few non-partisan works you will find. Further, it is packed with information and original analysis. David Maraniss's biography is still the best on this subject but Mr. Renshon's book is close behind. He complements Maraniss by offering psychological insights and then applying these to Clinton's first term in office. The result is a clever book that will leave the reader more informed and enlightened about this enigmatic president.

The Reason for Bill Clinton's Behaviour Made Clear

I bought this book because I heard a talk by the author on C-Span summarizing the book, and I had been puzzled by Bill Clinton's behavior. This book gets to the root of his behavior and why he does what he does, and why he does it the way he does. Part of the book is devoted to the real history of Clinton's young life, and part to the analysis of recorded behaviours in his political life. The combination truly clarifies what is going on. Stanley Renshon is Professor of Political Science at CUNY with a specialty in Psychology of Political Behavior, and does a fine job in this book.