In this paradigm-shifting volume, Allan C. Carlson identifies and examines four distinct cycles of strength or weakness of American family systems. This distinctly American family model includes early and nearly universal marriage, high fertility, close attention to parental responsibilities, complementary gender roles, meaningful intergenerational bonds, and relative stability. Notably, such traits distinguish the “strong” American family system from the “weak” European model (evident since 1700), which involves late marriage, a high proportion of the adult population never married, significantly lower fertility, and more divorces.
The author shows that these cycles of strength and weakness have occurred, until recently, in remarkably consistent fifty-year swings in the United States since colonial times. The book’s chapters are organized around these 50-year time frames. There have been four family cycles of strength and decline since 1630, each one lasting about one hundred years. The author argues that fluctuations within this cyclical model derive from intellectual, economic, cultural, and religious influences, which he explores in detail, and supports with considerable evidence.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Allan C. Carlson is president emeritus of the Howard Center for Family, Religion, and Society in Rockford, Illinois and was distinguished visiting professor of history and politics at Hillsdale College.
"Recommended"
—K. Celello, Choice
"Allan Carlson is America's preeminent historian and defender of the family. This volume demonstrates that worry about the strength and durability of families is not new on our shores, but nevertheless that there is cause for concern in our current ‘cycle’ of decline. While the ‘crisis of the family’ is a recurring phenomenon, Carlson suggests that something uniquely worrying might be present in our current cycle of decline. His analysis should be both a source of concern and renewed effort to begin anew a cycle of family health and vitality.”
—Patrick J. Deneen, University of Notre Dame
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Shipping:
US$ 18.68
From United Kingdom to U.S.A.
Book Description Hardcover. Condition: New. Seller Inventory # 6666-TNFPD-9781412863032
Book Description Hardback. Condition: New. New copy - Usually dispatched within 4 working days. Seller Inventory # B9781412863032
Book Description Hardcover. Condition: Brand New. 168 pages. 9.25x6.25x0.75 inches. In Stock. Seller Inventory # __1412863031
Book Description Gebunden. Condition: New. Dieser Artikel ist ein Print on Demand Artikel und wird nach Ihrer Bestellung fuer Sie gedruckt. In this paradigm-shifting volume, Allan C. Carlson identifies and examines four distinct cycles of strength or weakness of American family systems. This distinctly American family model includes early and nearly universal marriage, high fertility, close . Seller Inventory # 595739746