FROM   REGIME CHANGE: TOWARD A POSTLIBERAL FUTURE  by Patrick J. Deneen:

"Several hundred years into this experiment [the post-aristocratic, pro- middle class Liberal movement], we have witnessed firsthand the rise of a new ruling class, a 'meritocracy' that has thrived under the conditions established & advanced by Liberalism. Liberalism is today in crisis, not just because of the bad behavior of the new elite, but because its rise has corresponded with the attrition of institutions that benefited the lower classes while restraining the ambitious who wished to escape its restraints. The weakening of the family, neighborhood, church & religious community & other associations has resulted in the degradation of the social & economic conditions of 'the many', even as 'the few' have garnered a monopoly on economic & social advantages".