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Book Review: "Dumbocracy"

Published: Thursday, October 30, 2008

Updated: Sunday, February 22, 2009 11:02

Ever wish that Bill O'Reilly and Keith Olbermann would collaborate and write a book? That would be ridiculous, unlike this book.

Author Marty Beckerman confronts the radicals of political and cultural activism in his new book, "Dumbocracy: Adventures with the Loony Left, the Rabid Right, and Other American Idiots."

No political faction, whether it is the ultra-leftist or the ultra-rightist, is safe from this political satire that prods at the sodden underbelly of extremists in the country. "Dumbocracy" will have readers laughing at the outrageous antics of radical activists, and then angrily clawing at their eyes at the contradictions between the two parties with a turn of the page.

Beckerman, a self-proclaimed "professional asshole," tackles hot-button issues such as abortion, gay rights, terrorism, drugs, the overweight epidemic and religion.

With chapters such as "Moralization Nation vs. Intellectualization Nation," "Castration Nation vs. Procreation Nation" and "Terrorization Nation vs. Zionization Nation," the book delves into the mentality of those with resounding beliefs on their particular issue of choice.

Beckerman spent four years traveling to conventions and political rallies, in the country and abroad, talking with those who drive each movement.

"Dumbocracy" strives to find a common bond between two polar opposites regarding social issues. The strange thing is, these radicals have more in common than one might think.

Cutting through the ruckus created by both parties, Beckerman realizes that radicals of the political spectrum share a bond of hypocrisy. While these crusaders become emotionally enamored with their causes, they perpetuate a sense of intolerance.

"Dumbocracy" is a rather quick and quirky read that will keep readers on their toes with clever footnotes and captivating dialogue throughout the book. Beckerman strikes both sides with strong jabs, recounting instances where he left his opponents dumbfounded. At several points, Beckerman finds himself in rather precarious situations- and often intoxicated.

The 25-year-old backs up the satirical tone of the book, which is similar to Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert, with healthy research. For those fired up by the statements, they can easily flip to the endnotes and fact-check Beckerman if they so desire.

With the election looming and campaign rhetoric flying about, "Dumbocracy" is a welcome kick in the gonads. If not only to remind us that as much as we disagree, we can always agree to disagree.

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