Why Politics Fails

A leading political expert explains why systems fail to deliver things we all want—democracy, equality, solidarity, security and prosperity—and what can be done to create a just, equitable, and environmentally sane society.
The dawn of the twenty-first century had the promise of a golden age. The economy was stable and growing, social peace seemed possible, and technology appeared benign.
The past years have awakened us from this complacency.

• We have long known what needs to be done to save the world from climate disaster. Why do we continue on the path of self-destruction?
• The immense wealth of the United States should make poverty a historical curiosity. Why is income inequality growing and the scourge of poverty increasing?
• The vast majority of people around the world want to live in a society with democratic values. Why is democracy receding? Why is it so hard to get - and keep - the world we want?
  Ben Ansell,...