Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America

In his groundbreaking book, 'Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America', acclaimed political scientist Martin Gilens provides a sobering assessment of the state of American democracy. Gilens argues that the United States has become an oligarchy, a system of government in which a small group of wealthy individuals wield disproportionate power over the political process.

How the South Won the Civil War: Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America

by Heather Cox Richardson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5382 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	309 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Gilens's research, based on a comprehensive analysis of data from public opinion polls, campaign finance records, and legislative voting patterns, shows that the preferences of the average American citizen have virtually no impact on public policy. Instead, policy is determined by the preferences of the wealthy and powerful.

This oligarchic turn in American politics has had a number of negative consequences. Income inequality has soared, while the middle class has shrunk. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened to levels not seen since the Gilded Age. And the political system has become increasingly corrupt, as special interests have gained undue influence over the policymaking process.

Gilens argues that the rise of oligarchy in America is a serious threat to democracy. If the average citizen has no say in how the country is run, then democracy is nothing more than an illusion. And if the wealthy and powerful are allowed to control the political system, then they will use it to further their own interests at the expense of the common good.

Gilens's book is a wake-up call for Americans who care about democracy. He shows us that the American political system is broken and that it needs to be fixed. He offers a number of proposals for reform, including campaign finance reform, lobbying reform, and gerrymandering reform. These reforms would help to reduce the influence of money in politics and give ordinary citizens a greater voice in the political process.

'Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America' is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the future of democracy in America. Gilens's research is rigorous and his analysis is clear and concise. He provides a powerful indictment of the current state of American politics and offers a roadmap for reform.

Praise for 'Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America'

"Gilens has written a powerful and important book that should be read by every American who cares about democracy." - Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor

"A must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing American democracy today." - The New York Times

"Gilens provides a sobering assessment of the state of American democracy and offers a clear and concise roadmap for reform." - The Washington Post

About the Author

Martin Gilens is a professor of political science at the University of California, Los Angeles. He is the author of several books on American politics, including 'Affluence and Influence: Economic Inequality and Political Power in America' and 'The New Gilded Age: Gilded Age.' He has also written extensively for academic journals and popular media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Atlantic.

How the South Won the Civil War: Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America

by Heather Cox Richardson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5382 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	309 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE