In theory, governments are based on the concepts of representative government, with leaders elected by the people and supposedly responsible to the people and some concept of the rule of law. But in truth, over many decades, most governments have deliberately rejected this pattern, and the real power has been in the hands of some form of ruling elite. Many of these elites are content to rule through raw power; no explanations, no justifications. Other centrist elites are more vicious and oppressive, exercising blatant political domination by the power seekers, the money seekers, the...

The two most interesting governments in the world are those of India and China. Together, they control the lives and well-being of 2.3 billion people.

Bingmans book analyzes their similarities and critical differences. Both remain heavily linked to their farms and villages, but in both, the future is in the cities. Bingman analyzes their new economic policies, the rise of new middle classes, and their disturbing inability to provide adequate social services. Both are struggling with seriously flawed governments. China remains a "top down" tyranny. India's government is "bottom up"...