Why Not the Best?
by Jimmy Carter, 1975

As we observe the two hundredth birthday of our nation, it is appropriate to ask ourselves two basic questions:

Can our government be honest, decent, open, fair, and compassionate?

Can our government be competent? As a matter of fact, many millions of American citizens have been asking these questions, and are doubtful about whether either can be answered in the affirmative.

The tragedies of Cambodia and Viet Nam – the shock, embarrassment and shame of Watergate – the doubt and confusion surrounding the economic woes of our nation have created unprecedented doubt and soul searching among our people.

Does our government in Washington now represent accurately what the American people are, or what we ought to be? The answer is clearly, "No!"

Can our government in Washington represent accurately what the American people are, or what we ought to be'? The answer to this second question is sought throughout this book.

This is an autobiographical book, written by one who is still actively involved in politics. But it is not a political autobiography. It is written as a kind of summing up of my opinions about our nation – based on my own observations and experiences. It is written, too, in the belief that these personal experiences have relevance to values most Americans want to see involved at the top levels of our national leadership.

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