Elite Foundations of Liberal Democracy

This important study represents the culmination of Higley and Burton's work-the first book-length exposition of the mature version of their elite theory buttressed by the close examination of an astonishing number and variety of historical cases. Well argued, clearly written, and astute, this book is easily accessible for undergraduates, general readers, and all those interested in elites or democratic transitions. -- Thomas A. Baylis, University of Wisconsin, Madison Elite Foundations of Liberal Democracymarks a major contribution to the literature on the role of elites in regime changes. John Higley and Michael Burton present a superb treatment, which combines broad historical and comparative overview and in-depth theoretical analysis. The book is required reading for anyone interested in studies of democracy and democratization. -- Vladimir Gel?man European University At St. Petersburg This culmination of decades of work by Higley and Burton on elite politics is a major contribution to modern social science... One notable feature of the book is its realism: liberal democracy is not likely to spread easily, for elite agreement is very hard to achieve. A second notable feature is the empirical range: the conceptual apparatus covers, with real insight, an astonishing number of cases, making for superlative comparative political inquiry quite as much as major theoretical contribution. Highly recommended. -- John A. Hall, Dartmouth College CHOICE Higley and Burton...have written a stimulating, well argued, empirically grounded book...an historically based study that provides an excellent and comprehensive overview of the qualities within political elites that lead to the establishment of stable democratic rule. Contemporary Sociology To understand the primary features of...neo-elitism, one must read the important work by John Higley and Michael Burton. Revue Francaise De Science Politique Higley and Burton provide a comprehensive and rigorous framework through which scholars can make sense of the varieties of elite rule. Their hard-headed analysis of the forces that lie behind liberal democracy is all the more necessary given that U.S. foreign policy is now dedicated to the spread of such institutions around the world. -- Peter Rutland, Wesleyan University