Includes bibliographical references (p. [293]-362) and index.

The Madisonian vision of politics -- The progressive vision of politics -- The corruption of representation -- Political culture -- Equality -- Electoral competition -- The origins of modern campaign finance law -- McCain-Feingold and the market for incumbent protection -- A liberalizing agenda.

At first glance, campaign finance reform looks like a good idea. McCain-Feingold, for instance, regulates campaigns by prohibiting national political parties from accepting soft money contributions from corporations, labor unions, and wealthy individuals. But are such measures, or any of the numerous and similarly restrictive proposals that have circulated through Washington in recent years, really good for our democracy?. John Samples says no, and here he takes a penetrating look into the premises and consequences of the long crusade against big money in politics. How many Americans, he asks,