Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- The rise of the American corporate elite -- The state and the economy -- Labor as uneasy partner -- The banks as mediators -- The breakdown of the postwar consensus -- Winning the war, but losing the battle: the fragmentation of the American corporate elite -- The aftermath -- The ineffectual elite.

Critics warn that corporate leaders have too much influence over American politics. Mark Mizruchi worries they exert too little. American CEOs have abrogated their civic responsibilities in helping the government address national challenges, with grave consequences for society. A sobering assessment of the dissolution of America's business class.