The Failure of the State (1975) examines the dilemmas faced by governments in the need to reconcile demands for local autonomy, and for increased opportunities for citizens to contribute to the decisions which affect their lives - at the same time as governments are held responsible for the general welfare of society, and under pressure to exert the powers of central government on the behalf of varies groups. This book looks at how these dilemmas have been perceived and debated in Europe, East and West, and what solutions have been proposed or attempted.