New Book from Political Scientist Studies 19th Century Writer.

Byline: Purdue University

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Aug. 31 (AScribe Newswire) -- A Purdue University political science professor's new book reflects on the roots of American identity through the writings of a mid-19th century writer.

"After 9/11, I was concerned there would be questions about the source of American national identity," says Michael A. Weinstein, a professor of political science. "So, I wanted to go back to the period when America's values, traits and identity were being culturally formed during the mid-19th century."

Weinstein focused on Oliver Wendell Holmes' writings, especially his lesser-known works such as "A Moral Antipathy" and …