In an era of political polarization and cultural confusion, We the People and Our Freedom Charters by John K. Pitkethly, MA, LMHC, offers a timely and deeply reflective look at the foundations of the American republic-not merely as stories and documents in a museum, but as living ideas that shape the identity of a nation.
Spanning 315 pages, the book dives into the historical, philosophical, sociological, and psychological forces that gave birth to the American constitutional republic. Pitkethly draws on decades of study in sociology, mental health counseling, and history to provide what he calls a "human-centered evaluation" of America's origin story. He analyzes the country as one might a person-its family tree, family of origin, conception, birth, infancy, personality, character development, and current identity crisis.
The book introduces the concept of "Our Freedom Charters," which includes the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and all subsequent amendments-not just as static texts, but as the product of the collective ideas from the history of human civilization and the actions that formed a new nation. While the "Charters of Freedom" sit in the National Archives, Pitkethly's Our Freedom Charters reclaims their broader meaning, inviting readers to re-engage with the values, context, and intentions behind these American ideals.
"I didn't set out to write a book," says Pitkethly. "It was originally a letter to my children, but what emerged was an unofficial psychoanalysis of the American republic-a reflection of how our collective understanding of freedom, rights, and civic responsibility has evolved and fractured."
Key Messages from the Book:
- Freedom depends on an informed citizenry.
- The American people are increasingly disconnected from their founding principles.
- Constructive disagreement is possible-and necessary-for a free society.
- Despite current challenges, Americans enjoy unprecedented lifestyles with opportunities that should be recognized and appreciated.
Whether you're a concerned citizen, educator, student, or someone simply seeking truth beyond politics, We the People and Our Freedom Charters serves as both a call to remember and a guide to rediscover the essence of American life.
About the Author:
John K. Pitkethly, MA, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor and sole proprietor of a counseling practice in north central Florida. With academic roots in sociology and mental health counseling, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to American history and its psychological underpinnings. This is his first published book, born of decades of study and a desire to reconnect readers with America's philosophical heritage.
