The Great Degeneration How Institutions Decay and Economies Die

[Ferguson s] intellectual virtuosity is refreshing. The Great Degeneration won't be popular in the Obama White House or other centers of power. Jeremiah wasn't popular with the elders of Judea either. They tossed him in jail for his sedition. They had reason later to be sorry. The Wall Street Journal

"Brilliantly written, full of wit and virtuosity, stuffed with memorable lines and gorgeous bits of information. A great read." The Times (London) (on Civilization)

"A dazzling history of Western ideas ... epic.." The Economist

"This is sharp. It feels urgent. Ferguson... twists his knife with great literary brio." Andrew Marr (on Civilization)

"A masterpiece ... fascinating facts burst like fireworks on every page." Sunday Times

"Brings history alive for the reader with a dazzling knowledge ... peerless." Independent on Sunday