Individualism and Inequality

Ralph Fevre, Professor of Social Research, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, UK

'With the publication of Individualism and Inequality, Ralph Fevre establishes himself as one of today's most important figures in social theory and economic and cultural sociology. Building on his past work, his newest book skillfully brings together social theory, history, political philosophy, public policy and normative inquiry to tell a bold, new story about the rise of neoliberalism in the US and in the UK. Fevre produces nuanced genealogies of various forms of individualism and convincingly argues that the rise of neoliberalism is directly connected to the eclipse of sentimental individualism by cognitive individualism. In spite of the formidable social problems, including income inequality, that Fevre's account vividly depicts, he concludes his book with a ray of hope for a social movement that could bring the revitalization of sentimental individualism.'

• Contents: 1. Neoliberalism Takes Over 2. Anti-slavery and the Secret of Human Rights 3. Adam Smith and American Individualism 4. Inequality, Welfare and the Cultivation of Character 5. American Ideology: Millennium and Utopia 6. Classes and Evolution 7. Sowing the Seeds of Neoliberalism 8. Education, Individualism and Inequality 9. An Introduction to People Management 10. From ‘Stupid’ to ‘Self-actualizing’ Workers 11. The Neoliberal Settlement 12. The Apotheosis of Individualism at Work 13. The Hidden Injuries of Cognitive Individualism 14. Insecurity, Intensification and Subordination 15. The Future of Work and Politics Index