The arguments James makes about the rise of selfish capitalism, a "politico-economic creed" akin to Thatcherism, and the damage it is doing to the emotional well-being of western societies are well-substantiated; and he does explore new issues, for example, showing how the increasing popularity of genetic studies marries well with selfish capitalism, leading us to blame our genes, rather than society, for our ills.
But for all its urgency, the book still feels piecemeal.
The Selfish Capitalist
Oliver James
Vermilion, 2008
— By Mary Fitzgerald
Copyright Guardian News and Media Limited 2009