We are now experiencing immense progress, but as an idea it seems inadequate. Our focus is now on insecurity, threat and a sense that economic growth has come at the price of environmental devastation.

In a passionate attempt to 'give a future to the future' Massimo Salvadori traces the turbulent history of an idea. Looking at both its seductiveness and the reasons for its defeats, this book takes us on a journey through revolution, communism, Nazism, social democracy and globalization. It is only by understanding what actually happened to progress, he argues, that we can hope for real development in future.

This powerful essay by a leading political thinker is a manifesto for our times.