Across the world, strong voices argue that capitalism is better without democracy; others argue that democracy is better without capitalism. This book is a dynamic response to both views. At the same time it deeply explains why the marriage has led to such tension, it clarifies why a divorce of capitalism from democracy would be a disaster. They need each other, even if they find it difficult to live together.

Despite its flaws, Wolf argues, democratic capitalism remains by far the best system for human development. But something has gone very wrong: the rise in prosperity has slowed down, and the distribution of its benefits among the super-successful few and the rest has become more uneven. Plutocrats have retreated to their castles, despising the government's role in investing in the public goods needed to support opportunity and sustainability. But the impending wave of authoritarianism will ultimately overwhelm them as well.

Citizenship is not just a slogan or a romantic idea; it is, according to Wolf, the only idea that can save us. Nothing harmonizes political and economic freedom better than mutual trust in the common good. As the epic story of the interaction between democracy and capitalism shows, our ideals and our interests must align for the good of all.