The President of Ireland since 2011, when he was elected by a final tally of almost 57% of the votes, Michael D. Higgins has set out a vision of what he calls "an ethical Republic." In a series of remarkable and urgent speeches, he has urged his fellow citizens to consider what makes the good life. He has asked how human rights, an active and empowered citizenry, women’s equality, and the right to health and a life free of anxiety might be achieved. He has highlighted the plight of refugees, and has criticized the ways in which work is becoming dehumanized. "Most speeches are written to be heard but these are also works of prose. Each has a distinct subject matter, yet all are visionary and thought-provoking, designed to motivate and propel change for the public good." - Irish Examiner. Michael D. Higgins "draws on a unified vision, forged over many years, in order to provide perspective on a vast array of topics and to give us the insight that it supports. He does this with boundless energy, moreover, and with all the contagious enthusiasm of a natural teacher." - The Irish Times.