On the evening of Wednesday February 2, World Socialist Web Site International Editorial Board Chairman David North will speak at an event sponsored by the well-known Sydney bookshop, Gleebooks, to mark the publication of his new book, The Crisis of American Democracy. Included in the book, which is now available from most major bookshops, are four major lectures by North on the political and historical significance of the 2000 and 2004 US presidential elections.

North argues that behind the aggressive militarism and anti-democratic policies of the Bush administration lies a deep-going crisis of American capitalism. This is being driven, he asserts, by the deteriorating global economic position of the US and mounting social tensions—fuelled by an explosive growth of social inequality. Bush’s re-election, to which the Democratic Party mounted no effective opposition whatsoever, portends escalating militarism abroad and an intensified assault on the civil liberties and social conditions of the American people, with vast international repercussions.

The Gleebooks event will provide WSWS readers in Sydney with an important opportunity to hear David North speak and to participate in a discussion of these vital issues. Tickets are on sale now ($9 and $6 concession) and doors open at 6.30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. start. For reservations contact Gleebooks on (02) 9660 2333 or the Socialist Equality Party on (02) 9790 3511 or email sep@sep.org.au