The New Power Elite

C. Wright Mills' 1956 book "The Power Elite" is a scathing critique of elite power in the United States. In "The New Power Elite," Heather Gautney examines the dynamics of elite power from the postwar period to today, grounded in political economy rather than institutional authority. She covers diverse centers of elite power, including the US State and military apparatus, Wall Street, billionaires, celebrities, and mass media. Gautney argues that neoliberalism and the centering of the market in political and social life have ushered in extreme forms of violence and exploitation and a drift toward authoritarianism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

In his groundbreaking work, "The Power Elite," C. Wright Mills delved into the intricate web of power structures that emerged during the neoliberal era in America. This seminal analysis not only shed light on the dominant forces shaping society but also served as a warning signal about the country's gradual drift toward authoritarianism.

More than six decades after its publication, Mills' critique remains as relevant as ever, as the world continues to grapple with the consequences of rising inequality and social stratification. His profound insights into the workings of elite power have inspired generations of nonconformists and scholars seeking to understand the underlying dynamics of social and political inequality.

In her book, "The New Power Elite," Heather Gautney builds upon Mills' work and takes up the challenge of examining the concentrated political, economic, and military power that has come to dominate American society. Drawing from her extensive experience in both government and the entertainment industry, Gautney offers a fresh perspective on the dynamics of elite power, grounding her analysis in political economy rather than institutional authority.

Through her comprehensive examination of diverse centers of elite power, including the US State and military apparatus, Wall Street, billionaires, celebrities, and mass media, Gautney sheds light on the complex web of connections that underpin American power. She also delves into the changes that have taken place in global capitalism over the last forty years, arguing that neoliberalism and the centrization of the market in political and social life have led to the emergence of ever more extreme forms of violence and exploitation.

"The New Power Elite" serves as a contemporary companion to Mills' work, offering a critical appraisal of elites for the new millennium. It provides a comprehensive look at the structure of American power and its global implications, challenging readers to confront the injustices perpetuated by the powerful few and work towards a more equitable and democratic society.

As we navigate the complex terrain of the 21st century, Mills' insights and Gautney's analysis remain essential tools for understanding the forces that shape our world and for building a more just and equitable future.

Weight: 638g
Dimension: 243 x 165 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190637446