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Kevin Mattson's "Intellectuals in Action: The Origins of the New Left and Radical Liberalism, 1945-1970" delves into the intellectual and political ferment of the mid-20th century, offering a comprehensive analysis of the roots and evolution of the New Left and Radical Liberalism movements. Through a meticulous examination of the thoughts, actions, and ideological developments of key intellectuals during this period, Mattson provides a compelling narrative of how these movements emerged and shaped the political landscape of the era.

The book begins by setting the stage in the immediate aftermath of World War II, where the political landscape was characterized by the dominance of liberalism, with its emphasis on individual rights and economic freedom. Mattson portrays a world where a new generation of intellectuals, disenchanted with the status quo, sought to challenge the conventional wisdom of their time. These intellectuals, many of whom were products of prestigious universities, felt a profound disconnect between the lofty ideals of liberalism and the stark realities of post-war America, which was marked by racial inequality, Cold War tensions, and economic disparities.

One of the book's strengths lies in its portrayal of how these intellectuals gradually coalesced into a loosely-knit movement known as the New Left. Mattson skillfully dissects the intellectual underpinnings of this movement, highlighting the influence of thinkers like C. Wright Mills, Herbert Marcuse, and Paul Goodman. The author elucidates how these intellectuals rejected the complacency of mainstream liberalism and embraced a more radical approach that critiqued the American establishment, championed civil rights, and called for a more participatory democracy.

Mattson also provides a nuanced analysis of the evolution of the New Left's political strategies and actions. He shows how the movement shifted from a focus on academic discourse to more direct forms of political engagement, as exemplified by the Civil Rights Movement and protests against the Vietnam War. This transformation reflects the intellectual ferment of the era, where ideas translated into real-world activism, and the boundaries between theory and practice blurred.

The book also sheds light on the tensions and contradictions within the New Left, as well as its uneasy relationship with other social and political movements of the time. Mattson highlights how the movement's radicalism led to divisions, with some factions advocating for violent revolution, while others promoted non-violent civil disobedience. This internal discord, coupled with external pressures like government surveillance, contributed to the movement's eventual decline.

A central theme of the book is the interplay between intellectual thought and political action. Mattson underscores the role of intellectuals as agents of change who can shape the course of history. He highlights how the New Left and Radical Liberalism were not merely abstract ideologies but movements driven by passionate individuals who were willing to challenge the status quo and engage in real-world activism. This emphasis on the relationship between theory and praxis gives the book a depth that is often lacking in historical analyses.

Additionally, Mattson's work is notable for its examination of the broader cultural and social context of the period. He considers the impact of popular culture, the counterculture, and the rise of the baby boomer generation on the political developments of the time. This multifaceted approach provides a well-rounded understanding of the factors that contributed to the emergence of the New Left and Radical Liberalism.

The book's exploration of the key figures within the movements, such as Tom Hayden, Todd Gitlin, and Betty Friedan, adds a personal dimension to the narrative. Mattson portrays these individuals as complex and imperfect, giving readers a sense of the human dynamics at play in the intellectual and political struggles of the era.

While "Intellectuals in Action" is a comprehensive and thought-provoking work, it is not without its limitations. Some readers may find the extensive detailing of intellectual debates and ideological evolution to be dense and challenging to navigate. Additionally, the book could have benefited from a more robust discussion of the lasting impact and legacy of the New Left and Radical Liberalism movements in contemporary American politics.

In conclusion, Kevin Mattson's "Intellectuals in Action: The Origins of the New Left and Radical Liberalism, 1945-1970" offers a rich and informative account of a pivotal period in American history. Through its in-depth exploration of the intellectual and political developments of the time, the book provides valuable insights into the origins and evolution of the New Left and Radical Liberalism movements. It underscores the dynamic interplay between theory and action, highlighting the transformative potential of...