David Mamet discusses his play Glengarry Glen Ross. Includes two scenes from the play recited by both David Mamet and Studs Terkel.

Studs interviews David Lowe about his book, "Chicago Interiors." Studs begins the interview with John Carpenter’s “Skyscrapers.” Studs leaf’s through the book as they discuss various photos and Lowe describes the history of various structures from the book that includes Chicago history. They discuss the history of architecture in Chicago and highlight various famous architects. Lowe explains how the industrial revolution, foreign countries and the Chicago fire all influenced Chicago architecture.

Discussing the book "Lost Chicago" with the author David Lowe.

Members of John F. Kennedy's administration are featured in David Halberstam's book, "The Best and the Brightest." Halberstam points out the irony of the title, as some in the administration may not have been the best or the brightest.  As a result of their bad decisions, America got tangled up in the Vietnam War.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations

Danilo Dolci discusses his life in Italy, his book "The Man Who Plays Alone", architecture, agriculture, social activism, his inspirations, and his career. Tom Cornell translates for Danilo Dolci. Includes at the end of the program an Italian song by Jerre Mangione and an Italian song called "Bella Ciao".

Daniel Schorr discusses his work in television and print journalism and the limitations of each. Topics of discussion include Schorr’s experiences working for CBS, reporting on and from the Soviet Union, and censorship in the news media. Schorr reads excerpts from his memoir at the beginning and end of the program.

Discussing the book "The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America" and interviewing the author Professor Daniel Boorstin.

Writer Dan Wakefield discusses his book “Supernation at Peace and War” with Studs Terkel. Further discussion is had over civil unrest, draft dodging, and social injustices during the Vietnam War.

Set on the South Side of Chicago in 1971, Cyrus Colter's novel, "The River of Eros," is the story of Clotilda and her two grandchildren. Colter said Clotilda was very similar to the matriarchal roles of the women living in the deep South. *Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Discussing the book "Manchild in the Promised Land" with Claude Brown. Brown also discusses growing up in Harlem, New York as an African American man. Includes a clip of a man speaking from the county jail. Includes a song sung by Mahalia Jackson. Includes a clip of children singing.

Discussing the book "The New Radicalism in America" and interviewing the author Christopher Lasch.

Discussing the book "The New Radicalism in America" and interviewing the author Christopher Lasch"

Discussing the book "Gentle Vengeance" with the author Charles LeBaron. LeBaron discusses his life attending Harvard Medical School, doctors, and healthcare.