Checkbook Democracy: How Money Corrupts Political Campaigns. By Darrell M. West. Boston, MA: Northeastern University Press, 2000. 220p. $47.50 cloth, $16.95 paper.

Abstract

Darrell West argues that elections, rather than stimulate debate over ideas and policies, have degenerated into con- tests in which candidates try to raise more and more money. The cost of campaigns has skyrocketed, the level of cynicism and apathy among voters has increased, and the perceived accountability of elected officials has been placed at risk.