Populism and elitism

Jeffrey Bell argues that in the post-communist era, the core political conflict has shifted from liberal vs.

conservative to populist vs.

elitist worldviews, defined by optimism about people's competence rather than social class.

Drawing on historical examples like Ronald Reagan as the most populist president since Andrew Jackson, the book examines how figures from various backgrounds embody these views and predicts a future values war in politics.

It clears away outdated labels to reveal stakes in 1990s politics, with insights into events like the deaths of Robert Kennedy and Richard Nixon's fall.