P. W. Preston has taught comparative politics in a number of universities in Europe and East Asia and has published widely on topics related to these two regions. His most recent concerns have been with the ways in which collective memories of violence find expression in contemporary politics both in Europe and East Asia.

'This is a book that should be read by anyone interested in contemporary Britain. It traces developments in post-war Britain in the context of the end of Empire, but does so in a different way which focuses upon the role of ideas/narratives reflected in government designs, high arts and popular culture. It is challenging, but always interesting; even where the reader might disagree.' - David Marsh, Director of Research, ANZSOG Institute for Governance, University of Canberra, Australia

• Preface Acknowledgement 1. After the Empire 2. Foundation Myths 3. Grand Designs 4. Making Enemies 5. Voices of Complaint 6. Patrician Retreat 7. Affluence Attained 8. Corporate World 9. Bullshit Industries 10. Familiar Utopias 11. Continuing Britain Bibliography Index