The Revolt of the Elites and the Betrayal of Democracy

"[A] passionate, compelling, and disturbing argument that the ills of democracy in the United States today arise from the default of its elites." —John Gray, New York Times Book Review (front-page review)

In a front-page review in the Washington Post Book World, John Judis wrote:
"Political analysts have been poring over exit polls and precinct-level votes to gauge the meaning of last November's election, but they would probably better employ their time reading the late Christopher Lasch's book."

And in the National Review, Robert Bork says The Revolt of the Elites "ranges provocatively [and] insightfully."

Key Themes and Controversy

Controversy has raged around Lasch's targeted attack on the elites, their loss of moral values, and their abandonment of the middle class and poor, for he sets up the media and educational institutions as a large source of the problem.

In this spirited work, Lasch calls out for:

• A return to community
• Schools that teach history, not self-esteem
• A return to morality and even the teachings of religion

He approaches these issues in a nonpartisan manner, drawing on the lessons of American history and castigating those in power for the ever-widening gap between the economic classes, which has created a crisis in American society.

Why Read This Book?

The Revolt of the Elites and the Betrayal of Democracy is riveting social commentary that challenges readers to reflect on the state of democracy, inequality, and moral values in modern America.