"First paperback printing, with a new preface by the authors, 2014"--T.p. verso.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [219]-253) and index.

Introduction: Two compromises -- Characteristics of compromise -- Mindsets of compromise; Valuing compromise: Costs of not compromising -- Vulnerabilities of compromise -- Limits of compromise -- Limits of history; Resisting compromise: The makeup of mindsets -- principled tenacity -- mutual mistrust -- uncompromising multiplied; Seeking compromise: Principled prudence -- Mutual respect -- Economizing on disagreement -- A moment of compromise -- Compromising in an uncompromising time; Campaigning v. governing: Requisites of campaigning -- Two conceptions of democracy -- Campaigns without end; Governing with campaigning: Space for governing -- Term time -- Time is money -- Primary pressures -- More participation? -- Minding the media -- Strengthening civic education; Conclusion: The uses of mindsets -- Doubts and compromise -- The dilemma of reform -- The support of citizens.

If politics is the art of the possible, then compromise is the artistry of democracy. Unless one partisan ideology holds sway over all branches of government, compromise is necessary to govern for the benefit of all citizens. A rejection of compromise biases politics in favor of the status quo, even when the rejection risks crisis. Why then is compromise so difficult in American politics today? In this book, the authors connect the rejection of compromise to the domination of campaigning over governing, the permanent campaign, in American democracy today. They show that campaigning for political office calls for a mindset that blocks compromise, standing tenaciously on principle to mobilize voters and mistrusting opponents in order to defeat them. Good government calls for an opposite cluster of attitudes and arguments, the compromising mindset, that inclines politicians to adjust their principles and to respect their opponents. It is a mindset that helps politicians appreciate and take advantage of opportunities for desirable compromise. The authors propose changes in our political institutions, processes, and mindsets that would encourage a better balance between campaigning and governing.

Title from title screen (viewed June 25, 2014).

JSTOR Books at JSTOR Demand Driven Acquisitions