A glib, easy-reading appraisal of our politico-economic status now that we face science-and the atom bomb, by the author of ten previous books. The book considers first the goals of western civilization, second the meaning of freedom in terms of the individual's rights, the world picture which is half free and half totalitarian, and the possibilities of world government with both forms of government participating. Also reviewed is our standard of living, the spoilage of farm lands and natural resources, the duty of the government to conserve and educate at home and abroad. And in this vein, Coyle considers American production--its role in democratic capitalism, the necessity for limited national planning, the part played by big business, foreign trade and the development of backward regions. In conclusion the author considers the nature and ideology of democracy and its ability to meet the challenge of judgment day. Timely political economics, on the Sunday supplement level.