`Author:` Nancy Maclean `Availability:` > [!info] > ![[Democracyinchains.book.jpeg]] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy_in_Chains  ## Summary Democracy in Chains: The Deep [[History]] of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America by Nancy MacLean explores the intellectual and organisational roots of modern right-wing [[Politics]] in the United States, focusing on the work of economist James M. Buchanan and his influence on libertarianism and neoliberalism. MacLean argues that Buchanan’s ideas provided a strategic blueprint for reshaping [[Democracy]] to limit the power of majority rule and promote a pro-business, anti-government agenda. Below are key themes and connections to the [[Atlas Network]] and neoliberalism: ## Key Takeaways 1. James M. Buchanan’s Influence • Buchanan, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, was a central figure in the development of public choice theory, which examines how self-interest affects political and [[bureaucratic]] decision-making. • According to MacLean, Buchanan saw [[Democracy]] as prone to “excessive” majority rule, where the public could vote for policies (e.g., taxes, social programs) that threatened the wealth of elites. His work sought to limit [[Government]] intervention and expand protections for private property and free markets. • He influenced efforts to write constitutions and policies that would constrain democratic majorities, such as balanced budget amendments and curbs on progressive taxation. 2. Connections to Right-Wing Politics • Buchanan’s ideas resonated with wealthy conservatives and libertarians, such as the Koch brothers, who were seeking intellectual frameworks to justify their opposition to government regulation, labour rights, and environmental protections. • MacLean argues that these ideas underpinned the broader right-wing strategy to weaken democratic institutions, disempower unions, and promote policies favouring economic elites. 3. The Atlas Network • The Atlas Network, a global coalition of free-market think tanks, plays a pivotal role in disseminating neoliberal and libertarian ideas worldwide. • MacLean connects Buchanan’s work to the Atlas Network, highlighting how it has been used to advance anti-government policies not only in the U.S. but also in countries undergoing economic liberalisation or constitutional reform. • Funded by donors like the Koch brothers, the Atlas Network has supported initiatives to privatise public services, deregulate markets, and promote school voucher programs—often in the guise of “liberty” or “freedom.” 4. Neoliberalism • Neoliberalism, the economic [[Philosophy]] advocating for free markets, limited government, and individual responsibility, provides the ideological backbone for much of the right-wing agenda MacLean describes. • Buchanan’s ideas fit squarely within the neoliberal project, particularly in their emphasis on reducing the role of government in redistributing wealth or regulating the [[Economics|Economy]]. • The book highlights how neoliberal strategies are often pursued covertly, with elites framing their initiatives as necessary for protecting “freedom,” while intentionally limiting democratic participation or accountability. Critiques and Debates • MacLean’s book has sparked significant debate. Supporters praise her for uncovering the historical and ideological roots of the modern radical right, while critics—especially libertarians and economists—argue she misrepresents Buchanan’s work and motives. • Critics also question her portrayal of the Atlas Network and neoliberalism, suggesting she overstates their cohesiveness and intent to undermine democracy. In summary, Democracy in Chains offers a critical analysis of how Buchanan’s economic theories and their adoption by networks like Atlas have shaped right-wing politics and neoliberal policy worldwide. It paints a picture of a deliberate, decades-long effort to reshape democracy to favour elites, raising questions about the tension between democracy and [[Capitalism]]. ## Notes ## Quotes `Concepts:` `Knowledge Base:` [[Books index]]