this is a book about:? the re-building of Australian democracy? the re-invention of business and community in a global age and,? the re-engagement of government in its task of serving the common good of all Australian citizens.Few would disagree that the twentieth century has been characterised by great change affecting our professional and personal lives. But what are the effects of the enormous technological, global and socio-economic changes we have experienced? How have our key social institutions been affected?In ‘the Patchwork Nation,’ Don Edgar documents the often adverse impact of these changes. In addition, he argues we need to undertake a rigorous re-assessment of our core institutions.It is time now to rebuild a sense of community and to re-vision our understanding of the role of the individual society.