Professor Long Thompson understands that ethical behavior is part of the foundation of our society. Ethical behavior contributes to thoughtful discussion of diverse opinions and a productive and just country. Her understanding goes beyond disciplinary silos and calls for ethical behavior by everyone, not just elected officials and business leaders. She knows ethical behavior is instrumental to our daily activities, not an abstract concept. Professor Long Thompson calls on all of us to behave ethically and hold our leaders accountable if we want to protect our democracy.
~Andrew Downs, Director, Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics, Purdue University Fort Wayne
In her book The Character of American Democracy, Jill Long Thompson has written a bible for public service. She makes clear that the nation is facing a serious ethical crisis. Our forefathers created this nation because they believed in the character of the American people. In the political turmoil of our time, we have lost our way – our moral compass. But the strength of America lies in the spirit and character of our people. In a system of checks and balances, Jill believes that the ultimate check is the character and ethics of the American people. For the sake of our country, we pray she is right.
~The Honorable Leon Panetta
The Character of American Democracy is a must-read for every person who values the ideals upon which our nation was founded. There has never been a more urgent time for us to look in the mirror and candidly assess how we are running our country. It is an awesome responsibility we all share. The Character of American Democracy provides us insight and guidance on how do it better.
~The Honorable Marcy Kaptur
Whether it has been in the political, governmental, academic or personal world, it was always clear to me that Jill Long Thompson has made the effort to comport herself with the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and character. Now she makes a strong, timely, and convincing argument on why we as a country need to refocus on these standards, and how we can do that. Not only should we expect more from our political and business leaders, but we need to challenge ourselves, in our personal behavior, to do better as well. The future of our 'experiment in democracy' depends on what we decide and what we do.
~The Honorable Paul Helmke
The Character of American Democracy a must-read for everyone who cares about civility and ethics in politics and public affairs.
~Charles Taylor, Managing Director, Bowen Center for Public Affairs, Ball State University
This book is a good read for all Americans. Dr. Long Thompson has set an example for all of us in her remarkable career as politician and academician. In this book, she provides an instructive and insightful perspective on the role character plays in democracy. She convincingly argues that all of us, ordinary citizens and leaders alike, play the crucial role in ensuring fairness, integrity, and transparency to preserve and protect our country.
~The Honorable Lee Hamilton
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.
~The Honorable John Lewis
Dr. Long Thompson's book makes a persuasive case for not only the importance of ethics in leadership, but also the critical role that laws and policies play in supporting and encouraging such ethical behavior.
~Sam Berger, vice president of democracy and government reform at The Center for American Progress
