Using the backdrop of James Baldwin's "Nobody Knows My Name" and Baldwin's feelings that Blacks were ashamed of where they came from, Terkel interviews Professor and Chairman of the Political Science Department of Roosevelt University on his book coauthored with Stokely Carmichael entitled" Black Power: Politics of Liberation in America". Hamilton states that Blacks were taught to hate themselves and leave school believing that. Institutional racism and the deliberate oppression it creates, holds blacks back. Blacks are left out of crucial decision making processes that concern them.

Robert Caro, journalist, discusses his book, "The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York." Caro talks about Robert Moses and the power he had over New York for 44 years. He talks about parks, bridges, highways, and housing that Moses built as he challenged mayors, governors, and the working class. 

Michael Rosenberg Meeropol discusses his book, ""We Are Your Sons: The Legacy of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg," and talks about his life growing up in the shadow of the execution of his parents. He recalls his memories leading up to their arrest and trial and the legal battle for him and his brother, Robert, to be adopted. He also talks about growing up ashamed of his last name, but eventually coming to terms with his identity and starting the fight for his parents' exoneration.

Dave Dellinger, activist, discusses his book, "More Power Than We Know: The People's Movement Toward Democracy." Dillinger describes his thoughts and past experiences with non-violent protesting. He recalls his experiences with the police during Vietnam War protests and the Trialrial of the Chicago . He also discusses Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other well-known protesters.

George Von Hilsheimer, educator and author of “How To Live with Your Special Child: A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers,” discusses his work with troubled youth.

Robert Borisage, founder of the Center for National Security Studies, and Richard Criley, part of the Alliance to End Repression, talk about government spying on citizens and the constitutionality of it. The pair talk about corruption in the CIA and FBI and how new laws can help curb the issues. They also explain the S.1 - Criminal Justice Reform Act 94th Congress (1975-1976).

John Kenneth Galbraith, economist and diplomat, discusses his book, "The Age of Uncertainty," which was being made into a PBS documentary. Galbraith talks about some of the most well-known economists and explains their writings. He explains how many of their ideas have long lasting effects on capitalism the US has today.

Daniel Yergin, author and economic historian, discusses his book, "Shattered Peace: The Origins of the Cold War and the National Security State." He explains the key players in the Cold War and his thoughts on the Yalta and Riga Axioms. Yergin also explores the end of World War II and other events that led to the tensions between US and the Soviet Union.

Blanche Wiesen Cook, historian, professor, and author discusses her book, "The Declassified Eisenhower," and explains Eisenhower's peace and war beliefs. She describes his beliefs at the end of World War II and his relationships with fellow generals and leaders.