How do we form a connection to the ideals and institutions of public
life? This connection is sometimes expressed in the language of civic
engagement, public service, and commitment to the public good. While we
do not lack for literature to guide us in thinking about public life, we
have less to call on when our problem is not only to explore public
ideals and institutions, but also to consider the nature and origin of
our capacity to make a connection with and find meaning in those
institutions and ideals. Levine explores the nature and origin of this
capacity to form a connection and find meaning.