Includes bibliographical references (p. 345-346) and index.

Introduction. Tough minds, tender hearts -- American renaissance -- First principles -- The resurrection of conscience -- Emerald City -- Yin activism -- Holistic politics -- Home of the brave -- Appendix A. Resources for activism -- Appendix B. Founding documents.

Noting a spiritually motivated political activism now emerging in America, the author claims that traditional political activists increasingly look to spiritual wisdom for inspiration while spiritual contemplatives are increasingly eager to extend their service to the world into political realms. The convergence of the two impulses forms what she calls a "holistic politics." She becomes a powerful voice for social conscience in American society. While citing the virtual abandonment of social justice as a dominant political theme since the 1960's, the author notes historian Arthur Schlesinger's contention that Americans express renewed political interest every thirty years. This is a time, according to this book, for Americans to return once again to our first principles, political and spiritual. In this work, the author draws plans for the transformation of American political consciousness and the reemergence of powerful citizen involvement in a genuine healing of American society.