The real strength of this book is its attempt to expand the debate about school choice by discussing how the implementation of school choice could further or inhibit the rise of the cult of individualism in American society. Cookson notes that, since the pursuit of individual interest ultimately undermines our sense of community and civic responsibility, it may have drastic negative consequences for our society. If America moves to a system of publicly financed private education, it will further the development of the cult of individualism.