This book is the peak of Higley and Burton's long-time "elite theory", which basically argues that the political elites of 'liberal democracies' come together and 'principally agree to not act on principle'.



This act allows for the status quo to mainly stay intact, which allows both left and right to stay in positions of power and governments to remain relatively stable.



This book abounds with examples, mainly being separated by colonial and non-colonial nations and the variances of the 'elite theory' that occurs in each.



Do not fear, this book is not written by ideologues. The book contains a non-partisan theory of rule and governance without passing judgement on either left or right wing rulings. It will leave you with a much more appreciative viewpoint on the subtleness and cleverness of Democracy.