This book attracted attention on first publication under the title of 'Capitalism and the Permissive Society' as a spirited defence of capitalism aimed at radicals who valued personal liberty above conformity and authority. It is, if anything, of even greater relevance today now that the political debate centres more on the uses and abuses of both market and government intervention. In this new edition, the author discusses the latest developments both in the world of ideas and events, as well as the case for a genuine consumer market in broadcasting. His verdict on recent experiments such as Thatcherism and Reaganism and attempts to revive socialism with a human face will be of great interest.
S. Brittan
capitalism economic liberalism economics liberty socialism