In his book, which has caused quite a stir in Western intellectual and academic circles, Colin Crouch, a professor of sociology at the University of Warwick (UK), argues that the decline of the social classes that made mass politics possible and the spread of global capitalism have led to the emergence of a closed political class more interested in creating connections with influential business groups than in implementing political programs that meet the interests of ordinary citizens. He shows that in many respects, the politics of the early 21st century takes us back to the politics of the 19th century, which was determined by the game played out between elites. Nevertheless, according to Crouch, the experience of the 20th century remains significant and retains opportunities for the revival of politics.

The book is intended for political scientists, historians, philosophers and sociologists.