Democracy's Discontent

In 'Democracy's Discontent,' Michael Sandel examines the American political tradition and identifies a defect in the public philosophy that underlies contemporary American politics.

He argues that the shift from a 'political economy of citizenship' to a 'political economy of growth' has eroded civic responsibilities and community, leading to widespread discontent.

Sandel traces historical debates from the founding of the United States to contemporary issues, highlighting the tension between liberal and republican strands of American political thought.

He advocates for a return to civic republicanism to address the sense of powerlessness and lack of social cohesion in modern America.