In the economic sphere the book discusses, among other issues, the profound impact of demographic change on Ireland's economic performance, and considers the social and psychological consequences of the rapid rise in average living standards, as well as the problem of reconciling a low tax regime with infra-structural improvement and fairer income distribution.

The book also touches on the decline of religion as a moral force with the radicalisation of traditional society, and gives detailed consideration to the shifting ground occupied by Irish Nationalism in the era of the Belfast Agreement, the political rise of Sinn Féin, and growing European integration.

Dr FitzGerald's humanity, wit and erudition have come together here to produce a classic.