Laughing at Myself: My Education in Congress, on the Farm, and at the Movies

Dan Glickman's memoir combines a sense of humor with serious reflection on his rise from a middle-class background to becoming a successful US politician, the first Jewish secretary of agriculture since Joseph served pharaoh in biblical times. He believes that the principles that have guided his life, such as a strong sense of humor, respect and civility for those with different points of view, a belief system founded on values based on the Golden Rule, and a steadfast commitment to solve problems rather than create irreconcilable conflicts, can help mitigate the toxicity seen in our current political culture and public discourse.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2021
Publisher: University Press of Kansas

In a remarkable journey spanning three distinct realms, Dan Glickman has emerged as a prominent figure in American politics, agriculture, and the entertainment industry. Born to self-made entrepreneurial parents and a grandson of Russian and Eastern European immigrants in Kansas, Glickman's upbringing was marked by a classical family background and religious heritage. Despite his seemingly modest beginnings, he has achieved remarkable success, culminating in his appointment as the first Jewish secretary of agriculture since Joseph served pharaoh in biblical times.

Laughing at Myself: My Education in Congress, on the Farm, and at the Movies, is a captivating memoir that delves into the intricacies of Glickman's life and career. Through his humorous anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, he shares his journey from the middle of nowhere to becoming a successful US politician.

Glickman defines success as a willingness to listen, an ability to communicate ideas, and a penchant for compromise. He has successfully navigated the worlds of congressional politics, cabinet-level administration, and the entertainment industry, offering readers valuable insights and tricks of the trade. His book serves as a valuable resource for citizens seeking to understand the political landscape and aspiring politicians seeking alternatives to the current crisis of partisanship.

One of the key themes of Glickman's memoir is the importance of a strong sense of humor. He believes that laughter has the power to bridge divides, alleviate stress, and promote understanding. By embracing his own vulnerabilities and imperfections, Glickman has been able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. He encourages readers to cultivate a sense of humor and to laugh at themselves, recognizing that life is full of unexpected challenges and setbacks.

In addition to humor, Glickman emphasizes the value of respect and civility for those with different points of view. He believes that political discourse should be characterized by respectful dialogue rather than personal attacks and mudslinging. He advocates for a more inclusive and empathetic approach to politics, where individuals are encouraged to listen to each other's concerns and work towards common goals.

Glickman's belief system is rooted in values based on the Golden Rule, which emphasizes treating others as one would like to be treated. He believes that empathy, compassion, and a willingness to compromise are essential ingredients for building strong relationships and resolving conflicts. His commitment to solving problems rather than creating irreconcilable conflicts has guided his career in public service, and he believes that these values can also contribute to a more harmonious and peaceful society.

Resiliency is another key factor in Glickman's success. He has faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout his life, but he has always bounced back with determination and resilience. He believes that failure is an opportunity for growth and learning, and he has used his experiences to develop a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.

In conclusion, Dan Glickman's journey from a Jewish kid from Kansas to a congressman, secretary of agriculture, and chief lobbyist for Hollywood is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a strong sense of humor. His memoir offers valuable insights and lessons for citizens and aspiring politicians alike, emphasizing the importance of listening, communicating ideas, and finding common ground. By embracing humor, respect, civility, and a commitment to solving problems, Glickman has demonstrated that success is not limited by one's background or circumstances but by one's willingness to embrace new challenges and learn from adversity.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 161 x 237 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780700632138