In this tightly argued and eloquent book, the preeminent economist John Kenneth Galbraith presents the blueprint for a society that is compassionate to the less fortunate and economically feasible for all. He points the way toward the achievable goals for a "good society": personal liberty, basic well-being, racial and ethnic equality, and the opportunity for a rewarding life.

However, this is no utopian approach to the economic challenges facing America; Galbraith recognizes human weakness, differences in ability and motivation, and the formidable obstacles facing those who challenge the status quo.

Still, Galbraith's optimism shines through as he explains how we could establish a more humane world by shedding today's conventional wisdom about inflation, the deficit, taxes, and immigration, and by recognizing the immense value of education and environmental responsibility and the political action that the good society demands.