Build Political and Economic Awareness
Overview
American Sense offers a framework of 32 guiding principles designed to help readers better understand the factors that shape American governance. By presenting complex ideas in accessible terms, the framework equips readers to participate constructively in the democratic process. The principles, organized by four essential functions of government—protecting liberty, promoting productivity, providing security, and operating practically—give Americans a good-sense anchor point for evaluating policies with reason rather than partisanship. The “4P” framework builds awareness to engage more effectively, ask better questions, and debate respectfully.
Preface
The genesis of this book was a desire to create an accessible reference that builds awareness of key political and economic concepts that impact the freedom, prosperity, and safety of Americans. The intent was to create a concise essay that equips readers with a clearer understanding of how to engage on the most pressing issues impacting American governance. The opinions expressed are not intended as final answers, but as starting points—designed to spark curiosity, inspire deeper exploration, and provide a basis for thoughtful political discourse.
A strong foundation of knowledge is required to challenge the tribalism and extremes that dominate today’s primary-driven political process. Yet with awareness lies an opportunity: to forge an alternative to rigid partisan allegiances and form a new anchor point that delivers solutions supported by most Americans. This vision calls for consensus and cooperation driven by sound principles rooted in good sense.
American Sense is an effort in support of this opportunity.
Principles Reviewed
Protecting Liberty
1. Defend free speech as top priority
2. Respect the constitution
3. Prioritize liberty over productivity and security
4. Ensure fair elections
5. Defend against infringement cloaked in liberty
6. Trust citizens
7. Treat everyone equally
8. Believe in the system
Promoting Productivity
1. Utilize a capitalistic meritocratic system
2. Maintain the leading economy
3. Orient around private enterprise
4. Implement only reasonable regulations
5. Provide fair trade agreements
6. Coordinate the provision of infrastructure and strategic necessities
7. Invest directly into citizens
8. Collect taxes in a simple, fair, and motivating manner
Providing Security
1. Understand the threats to American interests
2. Maintain the leading defense capability
3. Implement pragmatic foreign policy
4. Enforce federal law and protect citizens’ liberty
5. Refuse to allow lawlessness based on perceived liberty infringement
6. Control the borders
7. Coordinate disaster response mitigation and response
8. Utilize all necessary leverage
Operating Practically
1. Utilize the most productive means approach
2. Favor universal programs
3. Implement only necessary bureaucracy
4. Ensure a return on public investment
5. Advance human capital
6. Optimize public investment allocations
7. Avoid foolishness
8. Practice good stewardship