This comprehensive volume examines the relationships between the ruling elites of the Czech Republic and the general public. Sociologist Pavol Fric and other expert contributors consider the dynamics of this relationship, the degree to which citizens accept and follow the decisions and direction of the elites, and the way this relationship has shaped the process of post-communist modernization within Czech society. Drawing on both quantitative and qualitative data, the authors provide important insights into the quality of elite-public relations, the nuance of intra-elite relations, and the values of these groups, both shared and independent. All of the conditions analyzed are also presented in light of how they threaten or contribute to democratic stability in a post-communist society. The questions and conclusions drawn from this study will be essential to the study of elite tradition, leadership, and democratic alternatives, and will greatly contribute to our understanding of contemporary Central European society.