Book Reviews
Building good families in a changing world
By Elizabeth Porter
ISBN: 978-0522846485; 1995; 211 pages; Melbourne University Press;
Reviewed by Pam Smith
Counsellor, Relationships Australia
The book is founded on three basic arguments. The first is that good families are important, the second that our private and public lives affect each other, and the third is that good families provide a grounding for good citizens. This book is a solid read. The author's discussion focuses on social mores and value systems in today's world, which would be suitable as a reference for parents and families.
It gives answers to questions, such as how is truth perceived, or how are honesty and trust, the age old virtues, seen in the context of modern society? The first two chapters explore the author's perception of what an ideal 'good family' is and what being moral means. The background for the author's concepts have come from philosophy, personal experience, and from having studied the history of families down the ages. Cultural differences are noted.
It is, however, a book for modern day families and many parents could find reassurance and comfort in the ideas expressed. Issues such as what it means to be a reliable and loyal individual are looked at with their corresponding social responsibilities and moral obligations. The theory is backed up with many examples which help to explain further the ideas that are expressed. Positive guidelines are offered to help the reader to understand how the author's 'good' family operates in practice.
It also challenges the reader's belief and, for many people, helps to bring their ideas about the good family up-to-date to meet the demands of our present day society. Porter gives many practical suggestions on how families can improve their lives. The book is rounded off with a chapter linking private and public life. There is an excellent bibliography and index. This is a book for all people who are interested in healthy, good families.
