This work examines the economist John Kenneth Galbraith through the unique lense of political theory. Waligorski illustrates the continuing link between politics and economics in American political discourse by locating Galbraith in a framework of liberal and conservative theory, controversy, alternatives, and policy. By analyzing Galbraith's complex arguments, Waligorski addresses important issues about the content and nature of American political thought and policy in the twentieth century.

Chapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 Themes and Problems Chapter 3 Rethinking Liberal Values: Power and (Political) Economics Chapter 4 Equality and the Proper Liberal Chapter 5 A Liberal Critique of "Liberal" Freedom Chapter 6 Galbraith and the Economic Debate over Democracy Chapter 7 A Role for Government Chapter 8 A Good Society: Individuality, Community, and Social Balance Chapter 9 Galbraith and American Liberalism