Beneath the rancor of our everyday politics rages a longstanding debate instigated by professors and journalists about the convictions that truly underlie the founding and unfolding of the United States of America. The bitter clashes between politicians grab most of the headlines. But because it will shape the education of today's students and the sensibilities of generations to come, the contest among intellectuals over America's governing principles is likely to have greater impact on the long-term health of the country.
