Ahead of the Curve

Ahead of the Curve is an important book for anyone passionate about activism and willing to take on today's existential challenges to our democracy and to world order. It's an intimate look at recent decades in American politics from the perspective of a man who has devoted his life to public service. Andy Maguire gained, lost, used, and influenced power. He took risks. He always moved forward as an outspoken defender of equal rights and progressive social causes - a tireless activist who succeeded in shaping events and influencing others. Michael Takiff's compelling biography of Maguire and his times reads like a documentary. It is a history lesson and tale of one person's effectiveness in serving his country through some of the most contentious times in our nation's history: Vietnam, Watergate, race riots, economic reverses, international crises. Through it all, Maguire held to the belief that he, and others like him, can and do truly make a difference. This book is about power -- ways to acquire it, how to wield it when you have it. And when you don't have it, how to influence the powerful to achieve the same progress you would push for if you did. You can train yourself to acquire power and work from inside structures of power. You can work from outside those structures to achieve your goals. And there are always others who have power. You must go around them or convince them to join you. The object is to win. This book is about working for what's right for Americans and for people on the other side of the world. It's about preserving our planet. It's about quality of life for all. Winning involves taking risks. Sometimes you take the risk. Sometimes you don't. A lot can be at stake either way. A risk may be worth it because there is a moral imperative. Other times wisdom and experience tell you to bide your time. Assess the risk. Select your objective. Pick your themes. Build a coalition. When you choose to advance, be strategic and forceful. Make taking the risk pay off.