Golden rule Book

This is one of the most well researched and scientifically based political science books out there. Instead of trying to look at how relationships or groups or whatever else affect politics it focuses on something much more measurable: money. This book is a bit of an eye opener in the way it traces the business alliances supporting each party through different parts of history. It divides the two political parties into two parties supported by businesses who have differently aligned interests: one party is for capital intensive industries and the other for labor intensive industries. Unfortunately the most recent examples are a couple decades old at this point, but after the many case studies the message is rather clear.
To me this book lays bare how much a facade politics really is and shows how politics is an almost closed loop of business funding politicians, politicians doing lots of things for business which tend to not be in the public interest, then getting reelected because of the lack of other choices/funding for any other candidates. If only corporations could vote too then they wouldn't need us pesky voters anymore.
This is an excellent book for anyone who wants greater insight into how the political system works and where the money goes within it. This is one of those books that even if you don't completely agree with Ferguson's analysis it will really make you step back and take a look to honestly evaluate his argument. It would be great if there was an updated version with a few newer chapters, but regardless this book will always be one of the greats in American political science literature.
It can be a bit heavy for the person not looking to get overwhelmed by the details, but it is still a great book for anyone with a curious mind. If the details bore you you can still get just as much out of the book by skimming/skipping the parts that get a little repetitive or technical. This is more of an academic work than one meant for the public which can make it a little dry at times, but it is well worth the effort.