This combination textbook and policy reader allows acknowledged leaders in the formulation of domestic policy to reflect upon certain abiding political disputes in light of the deeper controversy over the meaning of equality and liberty for the American regime. In their disagreements with each other, the authors reveal the fundamental tensions which animate American politics. The first third of the book contains theoretical essays on the nature of the American regime. This lays the foundation for the succeeding eight essays which present controversies over public policy. This volume assists students of American politics in the consideration of the abiding relationship between principle and practice.