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  • The Revolt of the Elites and the Betrayal of Democracy

  • By: Christopher Lasch
  • Narrated by: David de Vries
  • Length: 7 hrs and 32 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (33 ratings)

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The Revolt of the Elites and the Betrayal of Democracy

By: Christopher Lasch
Narrated by: David de Vries
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Summary

In this challenging work, Christopher Lasch makes an accessible critique of what is wrong with the values and beliefs of America's professional and managerial elites. The distinguished historian argues that democracy today is threatened not by the masses, as Jose Ortega y Gasset (The Revolt of the Masses) had said, but by the elites. These elites - mobile and increasingly global in outlook - refuse to accept limits or ties to nation and place. As they isolate themselves in their networks and enclaves, they abandon the middle class, divide the nation, and betray the idea of a democracy for all America's citizens. This is Lasch's clarion call for a return to the virtues of community, responsibility, and religion.

©1995 The Estate of Christopher Lasch (P)2017 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Lasch is so pithy and cogent that he produces the kind of book that makes you want to corner friends and read it aloud to them." ( Booklist)

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Thought provoking

Very interesting and profound insights into modern culture, a bit dense and convoluted at times.

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Surprisingly prophetic

Surprisingly prophetic on the broad societal trends that developed in the years after publication of this book. Some valuable thoughts into the underpinnings of democracy. The mythological perspective on religion at the end is not particularly strong.

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