Conclusion

Abstract

The Conclusion identifies four themes that link the loss of trust in early modern British and American institutions with the corresponding loss of trust in British and American institutions in the past fifty years. These themes are the abuse of power, corruption, ideology, and anti- elite sentiment. Resentment of elites is related to the growth of inequality and the loss of community in the United States in recent times. The Conclusion identifies periods in the history of both Britain and the United States when the government adopted policies that were fair, transparent, and efficient, and therefore fostered trust rather than distrust.