this seems to be yet another iteration of a trend on this website to trumpet itself as a haven for jewish leftists, but in truth to be peddling a warmed-over old-liberal platform. the very line "The manifesto was a seemingly uncontroversial document aiming to reassert classic liberal values" betrays a nostalgic and outdated craving for the old-left, perhaps even libertarianism.
cohen's book is poorly researched and reactionary to a fault. it dismisses out of hand some important contributions of the new left - multiculturalism, post-liberal theory and more.
i am also very uncomfortable with so-called leftist politicians and activists who get in bed with oppressive regimes and dictators for a narrow-minded political gain, but that is no reason to defend why he thought the war was right. IT WASN'T, AND IT CONTINUES NOT TO BE. yes, saddam was horrible. yes, it's good he is not in power anymore. that does not mean any means of getting to that point are justified. cohen's readings of dr. said are poor and knee-jerk.
if you are looking for a "better left," then this book is not it.