Democracy in Chains: The Deep History of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America

by Nancy MacLean, 2018

A Review

This is a fascinating read through the development of radical libertarianism in the USA following WWII to 2013 with a few observations beyond. The main focus is on the late economist and social-policy philosopher James Buchanan, who passed away in 2013.

There is also a digest about Charles Koch, the wealthy financier, who has set the directions for the present assault on American institutions and the foundational norms of western civilization. Koch wants to replace them with a radical version of economic freedom along with a new aristocracy based on the ability to amass wealth and capital to project force and compel others to grant dominion to the richest-propertied class. I view this as essential reading to understand current conditions in the United States.

Extensive use of the archives of James Buchanan and his career, motivations, plans, and accomplishments draw upon Prof Buchanan’s own words from his archives, which are now available for scholars and others to access. Be prepared for a bold and revealing digest. Charles Koch’s material also cites his own documentation and reliable reports. His funding of a range of educational institutions, The Heritage Foundation, The CATO Institute, the American Enterprise Institute, and others covers essential details about this anti-liberal revolution. I can also recommend a review in the July/August issue of Foreign Affairs, “The anti-Liberal Revolution”, a brief but important read. In the end, readers will have better understandings of how revolutions often subvert social and political norms in order to emerge victorious.

One final thing: Be prepared to decide if you support or oppose this revolution, but read the entire book with numerous breaks to properly consider the significance of this detailed overview before making your decision. What kind of America do readers want to live in? America stands at a decision point that will affect the direction of the country: authoritarian or popular democracy. The next few years will determine the path, so read on and be informed, then decide.

Five Stars ***** for this critical account of the waning of the American experiment. USA, 1775–2025: What will be next?

Find Democracy in Chains here.